How to learn to love winter 🧣❄️


Stay Warm This Winter

A few years ago, I read the book, No Such Thing as Bad Weather and it changed the way I thought about winter. Before that, I really struggled to get outside in the winter, but I had also never invested in good clothes to keep me warm or learned how to layer properly.

Once I got myself decent weather clothes, it made winter so much more tolerable, I daresay, enjoyable even! I still usually hit my winter weather limit around mid-February, but being able to get outdoors without turning into a popsicle has done wonders for my mental health in the winter.

How to Dress for Winter

Here’s how to dress for winter with links to some gear for men and women. If you’re interested in what clothes to get for kids, check out How to Dress Kids for Winter for Hours of Outdoor Fun. ​

The best thing about learning how to properly dress with layers, is that you can always add or remove them as needed so you don’t get too cold or hot!

Base Layer

Start with a good thermal base layer (top + bottom). Think moisture-wicking and snug, not cotton. Merino wool is the best, but synthetic layers work well too. I invested in good merino wool layers, but also have cheap synthetic layers from Costco. I love using fleece-lined leggings as a base layer.

Mid Layer

Add something cozy like a fleece or sweatshirt. This traps heat without adding too much bulk.

Waterproof, Windproof Outer Layer

A sturdy winter coat and snow pants are essential for blocking wind and keeping out moisture. Bonus if they have adjustable cuffs to keep snow from sneaking in.

This is typically the most expensive layer to get because quality matters. For kids, I LOVE the brand ThermKids. My kids have been using them for 4-years and they are much more affordable than other outer layer retailers (and code OUTDOORFAM gets you 10% off!)

Unfortunately, they don’t make adult sizes. I love Columbia and Cotopaxi for outerwear, but if you’re looking for more affordable options, sometimes Costco does collabs with Eddie Bauer that work well!

Wool Socks

Skip the cotton! Wool or wool-blend socks stay warm even when damp and wick moisture if you sweat which helps prevent blisters. I have seen nice wool socks at TJ Maxx for a good price.

Waterproof Boots

Insulated, waterproof boots keep little feet toasty. Look for ones that are to your ankle to prevent snow from seeping into your shoe.

Waterproof Mittens

Gloves are fine for short times outdoors or warmer weather, but mittens keep hands warmer. Waterproof is a must for snow play.

For short walks or cold but not freezing days I like gloves like these. You can find a men's version here.

For really cold days, I always wear my windproof, waterproof mittens like these ones on sale for 25% off

Warm Hat

Don’t forget a warm hat that covers ears! I love these fleece-lined, affordable options!

Great Winter Gift!

These hats with a light built in are such a good gift for anyone! Plus, they keep you warm and open up more opportunities to get outside at night in the winter. Our family loves to play flashlight tag and go on “night walks” (ok, they are at 6pm). I am grabbing these for our whole family!

My Favorite Kids Outerwear

My kids have been using ThermKids gear for 4 years. I love it because:

  • It’s good quality
  • It’s affordable
  • It’s machine washable
  • It’s not bulky, so my kids will actually wear it
  • It keeps them warm and dry for hours = more outdoor fun
  • Its kid approved: my kids love the patterns, especially splash magic which makes fun patterns show up when it gets wet
  • For fall, we love the fleece-lined raincoats
  • For winter, we love their snow gear

Use code OUTDOORFAM for 10% off or use this link to automatically get 10% off your cart purchases!

Blog Links for a Deeper Dive

How to Dress for Outdoor Fun

Don’t forget to also check out my blog for more tips that can be applied to adults as well and for kid-friendly options.

25 Fun Winter Activities

Here are 25 fun winter activities to keep the outdoor fun going all year long!

Can't Miss Fall Events

Faulkner's Ranch

I love Faulkner’s Ranch because it has so many fun family activities for toddlers through teens. There is good food, music, hayrides, slides, and more. It is always clean, well-staffed, and well maintained.

Open Thursday through Sunday October 2-31, with select Tuesday and Wednesday open dates too. Discount Code: OUTDOORFAMILY10 for 10% off admission.

Johnson Farms

Johnson Farms is the best pumpkin patch if you want to do everything fall-related in one place. You can pick apples, do a corn maze, pick pumpkins, sunflowers, and veggies, plus they have all the typical fall fun! They are open daily from 9 am- 7pm. Use code OUTDOOR26 for 10% off admission!

Dark Forest

I love Dark Forest because it's Powell Gardens made spooky. It's a 1-mile trail turned into a fun and immersive experience. I also enjoy it because it feels like being in a haunted house without worrying about someone jumping out at you around the corner.

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I Want to Hear from You!

Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing gift guides! What sort of ideas would you like to see? Is there an amazing product you have found that you think people would love? Let me know!

Stay warm out there,
Amy ❄️

Thank you!

Thank you so much for being here and supporting me! It means so much to me that you’re here. I hope that I can provide value for you and your family, so you’re inspired to get out and explore more! Happy adventuring!

-Amy

8450 NW Prairieview Road, #1397, Kansas City, MO 64154
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