Reccomended Gear for Winter Day Trips

The Right Stuff...for Winter 

AMC Outdoors, Web Exclusive, November 2002

Nothing compares to the crisp, clean air of winter and the magnificent view of a snowy landscape. But any trip into the outdoors, even a day hike, requires careful planning and the right gear. Always check the weather and trail conditions and prepare for the worst conditions; make plans with your group's abilities in mind (solo winter hiking is not recommended); and plan an alternate route in case of bad weather, injury, illness, or slower than expected travel time. We've compiled a list of recommended gear from AMC's Winter Camping by Stephen Gorman.

Clothing
Wearing layers will keep you warm and dry: moisture-wicking fabric next to your skin; wool or pile shirts and jackets for insulation; and a wind- and waterproof shell on top. Pay special attention to your extremities: hands, feet, and even nose. They are the most susceptible to winter's cold.

• Synthetic or wool long underwear for top and bottom.
• Lightweight synthetic or wool shirt, synthetic or wool pants.
• Pile jackets.
• Down vest.
• Down or fiberfill parka.
• Waterproof/windproof shell jacket and pants.
• Synthetic or wool socks and liner socks.
• Vapor-barrier socks.
• Insulated boots.
• Synthetic or wool gloves and liner gloves.
• Synthetic or wool mittens.
• Waterproof/windproof mitten shells.
• Synthetic balaclava, synthetic or wool hat, face mask, and goggles.

Gear
Even if you're just heading out for the day, you should bring along the gear below, which will help keep you safe in case of an emergency. Depending on the terrain and conditions you're heading into, you may need snowshoes, skis, poles, and crampons. (If you do plan to stay out overnight, check out Winter Camping for tips and gear.)

• Pack and/or day pack.
• Winter-rated sleeping bag.
• Sleeping pad.
• Sleeping bag cover.
• Vapor-barrier liner.
• Compass, maps, guidebook.
• Headlamp and other light sources with extra batteries.
• First-aid kit.
• Wide-mouthed water bottles (two to four quarts of water per person per day).
• High-energy snacks.
• Cooking stove, pot, spoon.
• Fuel bottles.
• Ice ax.
• Jackknife.
• Waterproof matches.

To order a copy of Winter Camping, visit the online AMC Store.