In the winter heads should wear hats and hands should wear gloves.  Seems easy enough.  But, if you are like me you have a tote full of hats and gloves, all of varying material and designed for various conditions.  Peering out your window there is a delay in departure as you make a final decision based upon the weather conditions presented.  Sure, you have your favorites – your go to hat and hand warmers for the spring, summer and fall but in the winter, depending on your activity you may ponder a bit longer.

In the winter opt for warmth verses weight.  And, I believe in the rule of extra hat and extra gloves packed away in a stuff sac just in case.  Many outdoor enthusiasts use a combination of wool and synthetics to maintain warmth.  Field testing is the best way to determine for yourself what meets your needs.

As a reminder –

Wool

• Tends to stay warm when damp
• Newer wool products can be more comfortable next to skin
• Long-lasting
• Less odor

Synthetics

• Dry more quickly but less warm when damp
• Generally lighter and less bulky
• Less expensive
• More odor

Because it tends to stay warm when damp I prefer a wool hat when in the elements and on the go but will keep a fleece hat tucked in my backpack for nighttime warmth.

Gloves too are a matter of preference.  Mittens tend to limit dexterity but that may be remedied with a set of synthetic liners.  If it is sun shining and relatively warm I will use fleece gloves.  But, if the wind is passing through or the day looks to be darker, liners with wool gloves keep me comfortable and moving.  On the coldest days I will use either overmitts or longer mountaineering gloves with a fleece liner.  For the safety of your hands, be cognizant that gloves or mittens are not too tight as they may reduce circulation.

Regardless of your choice in head cover or hand cover, when you are not wearing your hat or gloves always keep them in a designated pocket where you can quickly find them – and just as quickly notice if they are not there.

About Step Outdoors
Step Outdoors wants you to go outside and we lead individually inspired one foot in front of the other adventure pursuits to get you there. In the summer, we will tailor a first time overnight backpack or a more challenging multi-day hiking adventure just for you. In the winter, we offer snowshoe hikes appropriate for beginners and for those with a tad more experience. Perfect for mothers and daughters, couples, families, or a group of friends, we provide a 100% guarantee of fun.

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