Winter walking attire recommendations

[anotherAlias]

As the days are getting shorter and cooler, I need to figure out a better winter exercise program than I have for the past few years.  I really want to stay walking outdoors as long as I can stand it.  The problem is that even after having lived my entire life in the Midwest, I'm a complete wussy baby about Wisconsin winters.      I think if I had a better layering system I could last into maybe Nov or Dec. 

I have appropriate layers to be comfy from the waist up.  It's my legs and feet that I need to find better gear for.  I have fleece lined leggings for a base layer but I need some windproof pants to keep my legs from freezing.  I also have a variety of wool socks but need some water-resistant/proof walking/hiking shoes.  I was googling for recommendations but all the links were for crazy expensive gear. I'm not opposed to spending money on quality gear if I know I'll use it but I'm not sure if better gear is really going to sell me on outside winter exercise.  Does anyone have some frugal recommendations to help me gear up?

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[babytuckoo]

I live in Colorado and do a lot of winter hiking. I wear fleece pants/synthetic long underwear as a base layer and then use waterproof zippable pants on top. REI has a lot of options for waterproof/wind-resistant pants.

I'm a big fan of spending money on quality shoes. Plenty of brands with Gore-Tex or other waterproof and breathable materials. I have had 2 pairs of Lowa Renegades and they work well for my wider feet. They can be pricey ($240) but I hike, camp the whole year. They last for many seasons, and in the long run, good shoes may be worth it. You can also check out used camping/outdoor gear stores. There are some great deals on quality used goods. I find outdoor equipment can be pricey up front, but much of the good quality stuff lasts for a long time. Good luck

[cannotWAIT]

Uniqlo is a great source for cheap layering options. I have a pair of fleece-lined waterproof pants that keep me toasty at minus 20 and they were under $30. Their HeatTech undergarments are very warm, thin, and wicking. Cheap merino sweaters, cheap thin down jackets, etc. They probably don't have all the super wintry stuff in stock yet but keep an eye out.

[Anon-E-Mouze]

I'm a big fan of Eddie Bauer's fleece-lined "flexion" (stretch) pants for more active days (e.g. when I'm out at a farm sanctuary photographing animals) and their flannel-lined jeans for general day-to-day wear outside. They aren't enough on their own to keep you warm for a long time when it's below freezing, but layer something warm underneath and they're great for sub-freezing temperatures. (And they're great on their for temperatures between 32F and 50F.) When it's really cold (e.g. sub-zero F), I'll wear three layers: thick tights or long underwear, running leggings, and Eddie Bauer pants on top.

[anotherAlias]

I'm a big fan of Eddie Bauer's fleece-lined "flexion" (stretch) pants for more active days (e.g. when I'm out at a farm sanctuary photographing animals) and their flannel-lined jeans for general day-to-day wear outside. They aren't enough on their own to keep you warm for a long time when it's below freezing, but layer something warm underneath and they're great for sub-freezing temperatures. (And they're great on their for temperatures between 32F and 50F.) When it's really cold (e.g. sub-zero F), I'll wear three layers: thick tights or long underwear, running leggings, and Eddie Bauer pants on top.

Oh that's a good idea.  There is an Eddie Bauer outlet not far from me.  It's been so long since I've been there, I forgot it existed.

[GuitarStv]

I find that my legs don't really get cold as long as they're moving.  Down to about -10 C I'm good with just jeans as long as I've got a warm jacket on.  -10 to -20 I want to have long underwear on, and below that I'm always comfy in ski-pants (at least down to -45 C).

[nereo]

For walking (not running) in very cold temperatures, I found replacing my insoles with very thick felt liners made a world of difference.  The ones I used were probably half an inch thick to start (which required some testing of foot ware). 

Craft makes some (rather expensive) excellent wind-blocking pants that are great for moving around in.

[Evgenia]

I'm a fan of natural, compostable fibers for various reasons, so I like Ramblers Way wool pants and shirts (they have GREAT sales too, like $25 for a 100% USA sourced and made shirt on sale), especially their French Terry that's made of wool; alpaca and wool shoe inserts; and, my lifesaver in icy conditions: Yaktrax for shoes. 

[Cranky]

Are you hiking in the Wilderness or just walking on the sidewalk?

I am also in Wisconsin, and I hate winter but walk outside every day unless it’s icy.

I buy relatively inexpensive walking boots - Amazon has many options - and spray them with waterproofing and don’t step in big puddles of slush if I can help it. I wear thin cotton socks and hand knit wool socks. When it gets close to 0° I have wool leg warmers to pull over my pants.

I have a long down coat, originally from Lands End (purchased for a daughter who eventually rejuected it as not stylish enough.)

The only part of me that really gets cold is my face, and the Mask Life has solved that problem!

[Fishindude]

If you are walking a bunch on snow or ice covered roads or sidewalks, bet a set of traction "cleats" to strap on your footwear, Yak Trax makes a good one.   
They will greatly reduce your chance of a slip or fall.

[Metalcat]

For city use, I wear winter running shoes that have Gore-Tex, but they're not inexpensive. Granted, I think any really good winter walking option is probably going to be reasonably costly. Winter running shoes are by far the most nimble and comfortable option for walking. I also have Salomon trail shoes, which are more heavy duty, but not as nice for walking longer distances with a normal gait. I save the hiking boots for hiking.

I also wear fleece lined leggings, but if it's too cold and I'll be spending any time stopped, then literally any water/wind resistant pants over top will do. These should be very easy to find cheaply or even used. Likewise, the rest of your layers should be easy to find cheap/used. A basic thermal layer (I prefer merino wool), a fleece layer, a down layer, and a waterproof/windproof top shell. Although I only need all of the layers when it's down to -40 C/F. Otherwise, unless it's wet, the base layer and down layer are my go to.

That said, my down layer is the most expensive element, because I bought one that is very thick and none of the seams go all the way through, which in normal down coats creates cold leaks. My down layer cost about $350 and was worth every penny.
https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5037-101/Hot-Cocoa-Parka

[dodojojo]

I'm in a moderate winter zone so I do not have any experience with winter outer gear. I can usually get away with a Uniqlo down jacket and sweatpants or corduroys.  I have a heavy winter coat and a heavy down jacket but I haven't used them in years.  Either I've gotten used to winters or winters have warmed up significantly.  So my only winter tip is for the layers under the jacket--merino wool. My entire winter wardrobe is just rotating merino sweaters.  Nearly all of them are from thrift stores for $2-8. They are used but good quality from labels such as J Crew and Ann Taylor.  They feel good on skin and most important for winter, they are moisture wicking, will keep you warm even if wet and are naturally anti-odorous.  I walk and bike in them and forego pricey sportswear.  Thin merino sweaters are a great winter first layer.

[anotherAlias]

Are you hiking in the Wilderness or just walking on the sidewalk?

I am also in Wisconsin, and I hate winter but walk outside every day unless it’s icy.

I buy relatively inexpensive walking boots - Amazon has many options - and spray them with waterproofing and don’t step in big puddles of slush if I can help it. I wear thin cotton socks and hand knit wool socks. When it gets close to 0° I have wool leg warmers to pull over my pants.

I have a long down coat, originally from Lands End (purchased for a daughter who eventually rejuected it as not stylish enough.)

The only part of me that really gets cold is my face, and the Mask Life has solved that problem!

I'm just walking through our neighborhood but it backs up to a big corn field so it gets really windy after harvest.  Like I said I'm pretty wussy about being cold.  Once my legs get cold the rest of me freezes and Im less likely to keep at it.  All of my coats are but length.  Everything below the coat is where I freeze. I'm going to check out Eddie Bauer like someone up thread mentioned.  It also just occurred to me to check out Fleet Farm.  I never think of FF for clothing. 

[anotherAlias]

For city use, I wear winter running shoes that have Gore-Tex, but they're not inexpensive. Granted, I think any really good winter walking option is probably going to be reasonably costly. Winter running shoes are by far the most nimble and comfortable option for walking. I also have Salomon trail shoes, which are more heavy duty, but not as nice for walking longer distances with a normal gait. I save the hiking boots for hiking.

I also wear fleece lined leggings, but if it's too cold and I'll be spending any time stopped, then literally any water/wind resistant pants over top will do. These should be very easy to find cheaply or even used. Likewise, the rest of your layers should be easy to find cheap/used. A basic thermal layer (I prefer merino wool), a fleece layer, a down layer, and a waterproof/windproof top shell. Although I only need all of the layers when it's down to -40 C/F. Otherwise, unless it's wet, the base layer and down layer are my go to.

That said, my down layer is the most expensive element, because I bought one that is very thick and none of the seams go all the way through, which in normal down coats creates cold leaks. My down layer cost about $350 and was worth every penny.
https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5037-101/Hot-Cocoa-Parka

I've looked at winter running shoes with Goretex before but I can never seem to find my size.  Curse my average size feet.  My size always sells out first.  Im fine spending $$ on my shoes because of my hip and Achilles issues. Plus water proof shoes are always handy.  It's the $100-$150 wind pants that I'm less enthused to splurge on.  I'll have to check out some local outdoor stores to see if I can find something.   As for coats, I completely agree that you need to spend for quality.  My every day winter coat was almost $400 but Ive had it 6 years, still looks brand new and I have never been cold in it even at -30F with wind. 

[Metalcat]

For city use, I wear winter running shoes that have Gore-Tex, but they're not inexpensive. Granted, I think any really good winter walking option is probably going to be reasonably costly. Winter running shoes are by far the most nimble and comfortable option for walking. I also have Salomon trail shoes, which are more heavy duty, but not as nice for walking longer distances with a normal gait. I save the hiking boots for hiking.

I also wear fleece lined leggings, but if it's too cold and I'll be spending any time stopped, then literally any water/wind resistant pants over top will do. These should be very easy to find cheaply or even used. Likewise, the rest of your layers should be easy to find cheap/used. A basic thermal layer (I prefer merino wool), a fleece layer, a down layer, and a waterproof/windproof top shell. Although I only need all of the layers when it's down to -40 C/F. Otherwise, unless it's wet, the base layer and down layer are my go to.

That said, my down layer is the most expensive element, because I bought one that is very thick and none of the seams go all the way through, which in normal down coats creates cold leaks. My down layer cost about $350 and was worth every penny.
https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5037-101/Hot-Cocoa-Parka

I've looked at winter running shoes with Goretex before but I can never seem to find my size.  Curse my average size feet.  My size always sells out first.  Im fine spending $$ on my shoes because of my hip and Achilles issues. Plus water proof shoes are always handy.  It's the $100-$150 wind pants that I'm less enthused to splurge on.  I'll have to check out some local outdoor stores to see if I can find something.   As for coats, I completely agree that you need to spend for quality.  My every day winter coat was almost $400 but Ive had it 6 years, still looks brand new and I have never been cold in it even at -30F with wind.

You don't need full water or wind proof pants on your legs. Even basic, basic splash pants will do over fleece lined leggings. I sometimes just throw a pair of jogging pants over top if it's cold enough not to be wet at all.

[habanero]

I use hiking pants quite a lot. They are not waterproof, but at least somewhat water repelling and they dry out really fast if they get wet. They also protect well against wind and are wide enough to use long underwear beneath if needed. Don't look very stylish, but that I don't care about.

My standard go-to setup for winter walking is

- trail running shoes or running shoes with spikes if icy. Wool socks. Shoes waterproof.
- hiking pants, long underwear if very cold, but generally not needed.
- merino wool base layer, a thin fleece if very cold
- a thin gore-tex shell jacket with hood
- a woolen hat
- gloves, windproof and/or waterproof
- a small backpack with extra clothing if something gets wet / have to stand still. Generally includes a thin down jacket and a more heavy-duty shell jacket,

Outdooor clothing is one of very few areas in life where I'm willing to spend serious money. Staying dry and warm is key. If its very cold there isn't really much risk of getting wet but keeping the wind out becomes even more important.

For shell clothing I've used Arc'Teryx for the last 20 years. Pricy, but great stuff. I have a pair of waterproof SealSkinz gloves I really like, my Asics Fujisetu has served me well for many years, not that often I need the spikes so they don't get a lot of mileage every winter.

For running I use same footwear, tights, shorts (the senistive area can get pretty cold), a thin merino wool shirt, gloves, a thin hat and a windproof running jacket. That's fine down to -15C/5F for me at least.

If you're not freezing a bit the first few minutes you are wearing too much imo. Im always surprised by how much clothing some put on when the plan is to be on the move. After a few minutes they start sweating and have to stop to take off something. Anyways as always layers is the key so it's easy to adjust up or down if needed. Thick, bulky coats are for standing still. A thin down jacket used as a layer beneath a shell is surprisingly warm, lightwegiht and comfy to wear. My favorite is the Arc'Teryx Atom LT which isn't really a down jacket but warm, compresses well and lightweight.

If I know I will be standing still to watch some kid's activity or whatever its a big-ass jacket bit like Canada Goose and Sorel Boots. Those are awsome.

[Villanelle]

I have trouble regulating body temp--warm of cold--so I generally need more extreme measures than most people would in the same temps.

My biggest issues seems to be my thighs, which will frequently be ice cold to the touch at the end of a walk in temps not even at freezing temps.  This can happen even if my torso is warm enough to start sweating if I don't remove layers.  This year, I'm going to purchase a quilted skirt.  I'm attempting to find one that is longer than most so that it hopefully comes down to at least near my knees.  if I can find that, then it seems like a perfect solution to get some more warmth targeted to the area I most need it. 

I plan to put them over the fleece lined leggings I typically wear, or over the fleeced lined joggers I have that go over regular leggings. 

Something like this https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Womens-Sweet-Insulated-Medium/dp/B08MT6YGCG/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=quilted+skirt&qid=1632086610&sr=8-2 

[omachi]

I walk most days in the winter unless we've had an ice storm go through or something. Even then, maybe. Layering is key when it gets proper cold out. A warm torso will do wonders for arms and legs. Keeping ears, fingers, and toes warm is the next big concern. Even if everything else is nice and toasty, those being cold won't lead to a happy walk.

The nice thing about layering is that you can just keep adding more as it gets colder out. The same setup minus a few layers works well for just a little cold.

Gore-tex boots, meant for cold and not just being waterproof, are really nice. Throw on some heavy wool socks and your toes should be happy.
I have a pair of Gore-tex mittens that are almost too warm. Generally, mittens are warmer than gloves. With liners, I went down to -40 degrees without my fingers getting cold. Even without liners, my hands will sweat in these unless it's below about 10 degrees F.
Get a nice heavy wool hat. Fleece lined is even better. Make sure it covers your ears. Cold ears suck.
Honestly, I like my scarf. Not everybody likes the bulk of a scarf, but being able to pull a layer up over my face and having a layer that keeps the cold off my neck is nice.
A layer that hugs the body will help a lot, but only with another layer over it and a bit of air between the two. Makes for good insulation.

I like fleece or flannel lined jeans as my top layer. Great unless it's really windy, but even then, a warm torso usually just means my thighs get a little cool, not uncomfortable. I'm walking, after all. Alone, that doesn't work for my wife, so she picked up a longer jacket that goes down to just above her knees. Seems to work for her.

[pecunia]

Look at snowmobile suits.

[Morning Glory]

Are you hiking in the Wilderness or just walking on the sidewalk?

I am also in Wisconsin, and I hate winter but walk outside every day unless it’s icy.

I buy relatively inexpensive walking boots - Amazon has many options - and spray them with waterproofing and don’t step in big puddles of slush if I can help it. I wear thin cotton socks and hand knit wool socks. When it gets close to 0° I have wool leg warmers to pull over my pants.

I have a long down coat, originally from Lands End (purchased for a daughter who eventually rejuected it as not stylish enough.)

The only part of me that really gets cold is my face, and the Mask Life has solved that problem!

I'm just walking through our neighborhood but it backs up to a big corn field so it gets really windy after harvest.  Like I said I'm pretty wussy about being cold.  Once my legs get cold the rest of me freezes and Im less likely to keep at it.  All of my coats are but length.  Everything below the coat is where I freeze. I'm going to check out Eddie Bauer like someone up thread mentioned.  It also just occurred to me to check out Fleet Farm.  I never think of FF for clothing.

Fleet Farm is good for finding men's clothes in XL sizes, but it can be hit or miss for women's things. Ours has four aisles of men's shoes and only one of women's. The thing that pissed me off most is that the men's boots are rated down to -40F but the women's only go to -20. Same exact brand and style. WTF?  I looked in the boys' section too, but sizes six and down only went to -20 also. I don't get it.

I like my long down coat too, but I only bring it out if i have to do something like stand and wait for a bus in below zero windchills.  It's a Northface that I bought for half price at a going-out-of-business sale, long enough to hit the tops of my shoes so nothing is exposed.  For doing activities outside I wear a medium-weight down puffer coat and snowpants over leggings and long-sleeved t shirt. I don't like long underwear because it can't be taken off easily if I get too hot.

[Cranky]

Are you hiking in the Wilderness or just walking on the sidewalk?

I am also in Wisconsin, and I hate winter but walk outside every day unless it’s icy.

I buy relatively inexpensive walking boots - Amazon has many options - and spray them with waterproofing and don’t step in big puddles of slush if I can help it. I wear thin cotton socks and hand knit wool socks. When it gets close to 0° I have wool leg warmers to pull over my pants.

I have a long down coat, originally from Lands End (purchased for a daughter who eventually rejuected it as not stylish enough.)

The only part of me that really gets cold is my face, and the Mask Life has solved that problem!

I'm just walking through our neighborhood but it backs up to a big corn field so it gets really windy after harvest.  Like I said I'm pretty wussy about being cold.  Once my legs get cold the rest of me freezes and Im less likely to keep at it.  All of my coats are but length.  Everything below the coat is where I freeze. I'm going to check out Eddie Bauer like someone up thread mentioned.  It also just occurred to me to check out Fleet Farm.  I never think of FF for clothing.

Costco has some thermal base layer leggings in stock this week, so I think something like that plus a longer coat plus some wool socks would warm you up!

When it gets too nasty we just go walk at the mall.

[JJ-]

Walking is a bit of a different beast than running or biking in the winter. You're not generating as much heat so you need to be a bit more careful with your layers and how much sun there will be.

For really cold days ( well below freezing) i like two to three layers on the bottom depending on humidity. Thermal leggings, maybe pants, and ski pants to cut wind and insulate. For the top, it's usually a thermal base, a light but warm sweater and a wind cutting jacket like ski jacket.

The good news is that if you keep walking you'll naturally habituate to the colder temps and you'll know how to layer properly for the walks as the days get cooler. Personally, we spend what we feel like we need to to stay active, so don't worry about paying for something that you don't have if it will keep you active.

[StarBright]

I'm a big fan of Eddie Bauer's fleece-lined "flexion" (stretch) pants for more active days (e.g. when I'm out at a farm sanctuary photographing animals) and their flannel-lined jeans for general day-to-day wear outside. They aren't enough on their own to keep you warm for a long time when it's below freezing, but layer something warm underneath and they're great for sub-freezing temperatures. (And they're great on their for temperatures between 32F and 50F.) When it's really cold (e.g. sub-zero F), I'll wear three layers: thick tights or long underwear, running leggings, and Eddie Bauer pants on top.

Seconding the fleece lined stretch pants! Bought a pair a few winters ago and they are my go-to from December to Feb for walking the dog.

Have also heard great things about the winter workout gear from Athleta, but haven't tried it.

[hudsoncat]

You don't need full water or wind proof pants on your legs. Even basic, basic splash pants will do over fleece lined leggings. I sometimes just throw a pair of jogging pants over top if it's cold enough not to be wet at all.

I agree with this. I do have wind pants for really blustery days, but I often pull just thick sweatpants over my fleece leggings and that stops enough wind. I would say I wear the sweatpants way more than the wind pants! Lots of good advice on here, I would add, don't discount target C9 workout gear. Both pair of my favorite fleece tights are from there!

Also, just keep moving. And keep the pace brisk. It's when I slow down/stop that I feel cold, if I keep the pace brisk, I find "cold" much less of an issue. Good luck. :)

[Cranky]

I need to start out a little chilly or I really am overheated by the end of the first mile.

[pecunia]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

[Metalcat]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

Sure, but deep freeze winter walks are fucking magical.

[StarBright]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

Sure, but deep freeze winter walks are fucking magical.

+1 (and I have pretty bad Reynaud's! Bundling up in the cold and snow can be worth it :) )

[Metalcat]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

Sure, but deep freeze winter walks are fucking magical.

+1 (and I have pretty bad Reynaud's! Bundling up in the cold and snow can be worth it :) )

Same, I have Raynaud's and a condition that makes temperature regulation very difficult, but my biggest problem is over heating. So I have to have jackets that can vent.

[anotherAlias]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

I have an indoor rower for really sucky days but I want to stay outside and in the sun for my mental health as much as my physical.  Winters here are long and dreary.  Sun and fresh air helps alot.

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[JJ-]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

Sure, but deep freeze winter walks are fucking magical.

+1 (and I have pretty bad Reynaud's! Bundling up in the cold and snow can be worth it :) )

Same, I have Raynaud's and a condition that makes temperature regulation very difficult, but my biggest problem is over heating. So I have to have jackets that can vent.

I always thought pit vents were silly until I actually discovered their amazing functionality.

[Metalcat]

Sometimes treadmills are a good thing.  You can strip clothes off rather than layering.  You won't slip on the ice.  You won't get caught in bad weather. If the treadmill is in the house, you throw off some BTUs (heat) to help heat the house.

Sure, but deep freeze winter walks are fucking magical.

+1 (and I have pretty bad Reynaud's! Bundling up in the cold and snow can be worth it :) )

Same, I have Raynaud's and a condition that makes temperature regulation very difficult, but my biggest problem is over heating. So I have to have jackets that can vent.

I always thought pit vents were silly until I actually discovered their amazing functionality.

100% must have.

There's nothing worse than overheating in weather where it's not safe to expose any amount of skin or remove any layers.

I underestimated the need for vents once and only once, and ended up overwhelmingly nauseous from the heat because the wind chill was so vicious, it was nearly -50C (-58F), so I had no way to safely cool down.

DH had to trek home and come pick me up with the car, my only way to cool down was to totally stop moving.

With the right gear, it's not the cold that makes you uncomfortable, it's the heat.