WINTER HIKING 101

For newbie winter hikers, proper layering and quality footwear are key to staying comfortable through the duration of the hike. Zsipsak offers her advice on how to gear up for the best outdoor experience.

LAYERING

“Layering is the most important part of a winter hike,” says Zsipsak. She recommends starting with a base layer that is moisture wicking. That means the base layer will pull moisture away from the skin. Avoid wearing cotton shirts, opting instead for polyester or wool blends. The next layer should be wool to act as an effective barrier to the cold. And, the third layer will depend on the outdoor temperature. If it’s above freezing, a fleecelined shell should do the trick. For colder temperatures, wear something with insulation such as a down-filled jacket.

Always wear a hat, preferably one that is moisture wicking and covers the ears. For extreme cold, and particularly evening hikes, you may need to protect your face with a scarf or balaclava. Gloves or mittens are necessary, as well. To keep fingers protected from the cold at all times, Zsipsak recommends wearing a glove liner that stays on your hands the entire hike. Look for a glove liner that has a touch pad on the index fingers so that you can use the phone without exposing skin to the cold.

FOOTWEAR

The type of hiking boot needed will depend on the terrain, says Zsipsak. For paved paths that are maintained in winter, a lightweight boot with insulation that doesn’t go too far up the calf is a good option. If the trail you plan to travel will be covered in ice and snow, choose a boot that provides good traction and more leg coverage for warmth. Should the interior of the boots retain moisture, a removable liner is ideal for quick drying while you’re relaxing by a fire after the hike.

If snowshoeing is part of your winter adventure plans, then Zsipsak recommends finding a boot that is compatible with snowshoes. This style of boot has a ledge on the heel and toe to clamp the snowshoe on.

BACKPACK

Winter hiking carries a greater risk for something to go wrong because of the temperatures, potential change in weather and uncertain terrain. To reduce the risk of unpreparedness in the event of unforeseen circumstances, Zsipsak recommends packing these essentials: healthy snacks, a water bottle, first aid supplies, hand and toe warmers and a cell phone.

No Canadian can deny the temptation to stay huddled inside as the snow falls and temperatures plummet outside. But there are few experiences that can compare to the stillness and magic of nature in the deep of winter where the loudest sound is the crunch of your boots. Perhaps it’s not such a bad idea to hold off on the cozy fire. It’ll be worth the wait.