If the thought of winter weather makes you want to retreat to your bedroom with a pan of warm brownies to watch Netflix under a giant blanket, we can relate.
Because who really enjoys being outside when you can’t feel your toes?
The pull indoors when the weather turns chilly can be strong, but the lack of sunlight and fresh air that results from winter hibernation can contribute to stress, depression, and poor sleep habits. No thank you.
Don’t let the cold slow you down. By trying new activities and properly dressing the part, the great outdoors doesn’t have to be off limits this winter.
Plus, you’ll offset some of that pumpkin pie damage you did in November.
So get out there, winter warrior. You’ve got goals to reach and snow-covered terrain to explore.
Gear Up
The key to embracing winter and enjoying your time outdoors? Keep your body at a comfortable temperature by practicing the science of layering.
- Base Layer. This one’s closest to your skin and is made from a moisture-wicking material — most commonly a synthetic material or wool. It should fit snugly, but not skin tight.
Smartwool offers base layer shirts that are made from soft and sustainable merino wool — the definition of comfort and warmth. Plus, we dig their company’s commitment to transparency and ethical sourcing.
Shop Smartwool’s Base Layers - Middle Layer. This layer provides insulation by trapping your body heat and protecting you from the elements if no outer layer is worn. Fleece is common with high-intensity winter sports, but downed material provides more warmth and may be preferred if you’re braving extremely cold temps.
- Outer Layer. Like a shell, the outer layer is your barrier against harsh winter weather. It blocks rain, wind, and snow and is often made of waterproof material like Gore-Tex. The type of outer layer you choose depends on your activity and the kind of elements you’ll be facing.
- Protect Your Eyes. A snow-covered mountain or trail may be chilly, but the sun’s reflection off that snow can cause long-term damage to your eyes. That’s why snow-glare proof sunnies are an essential accessory.
If extreme winter sports are calling your name and sunglasses just won’t cut it, consider investing in a pair of UV-rated snow goggles. They’re available in both sunny and cloudy day varieties, so you may want to snag a pair of each to be prepared no matter the condition of the sky.
Shop 100% UV protection sunglasses. - Protect Your Extremities. When you’re cold, blood flow to your hands and feet is reduced to keep the vital organs in your core warm. This makes ears, noses, fingers and toes the first body parts to be sacrificed to frostbite. Ouch! The solution is to keep those hands and tootsies warm and dry. Waterproof gloves or mittens and shoes are a must. In addition, these hand and foot warmers deliver an almost magical warming effect when they are activated.
- Protect Your Skin. Yup, you sure can get a sunburn while froliking in the winter snow. While most of your skin will be covered by protective clothing, be sure to wear a lip balm with zinc oxide and sunscreen on your nose — the two places most susceptible to winter sunburns.
Get Moving
If your go-to outdoor activities just don’t mesh with winter, now’s the perfect time to try something new.
Snowshoeing
Ready to get your cardio on while exploring a winter wonderland? Snowshoeing is your gateway into the winter sports scene. It consists of hiking on top of snow while wearing special shoes that keep you from sinking into the powder. The gear requirements are pretty straightforward — snowshoes, a couple poles, and you’re off! It’s low-impact and easy to learn (which means the whole family can join in on the fun).
Start with flat and even terrain if you’re a beginner, then add in a few rolling hills to kick the intensity up a few notches.
Here Are 10 Destinations Perfect for the First-Time Snowshoer
Snowboarding
If you’re an adventure seeker, the thrill of an extreme sport may be what you need to coax yourself out from under the electric blanket.
Since the setting for this sport is a snow-covered mountain, the scenery is always stellar and the air is guaranteed to be fresh and crisp.
Sure, snowboarding can seem a bit daunting at first. As a beginner, you may spend as much time on your backside as you do on the board. Once you pass the learning curve, though, this sport is easier to master than skiing.
One tip — invest in a lesson at your local ski area before hitting the slopes. You’ll learn more in a day from a qualified instructor than you would in a week just fumbling around on your own. Plus, it will give you the chance to try out different board sizes to find your perfect fit.
Cross-Country Skiing
Afraid of flying down a snow-covered hill at a jillion miles per hour? Cross-country skiing offers crazy calorie burn (over 500 per hour!) but keeps you moving at tolerable level of speed. Skiers glide through peaceful white forests on level or rolling terrain using their own momentum.
While cross-country skiing may require an initial investment for skis, boots, and poles, after that, this sport has virtually zero cost. Free, groomed trails are located all over the Northern US. You might be surprised to discover one in your own neck of the woods!
Locate a Cross-Country Skiing Trail Near You
Winter Running
If you’re a road warrior who retreats to the treadmill in your basement when winter hits, consider this a challenge: gear up, embrace the elements, and get your winter run on.
With the right mindset, cold-weather running can not only be tolerable, but enjoyable.
Slipping on snow or ice is a legitimate concern when braving snow-covered roads, so investing in a pair of traction devices such as Yaktrax Run ice shoes is a good call. These little miracle workers utilize steel coils and spikes to prevent slips and falls.
Hot Springs
If you’re exhausted from a day of cold-weather sports or just wanting to try something completely new and exhilarating, add a visit to one of America’s hot mineral springs to your list. These natural jacuzzis contain water that’s heated by geothermal heat from deep within the earth, offering an unforgettable and therapeutic experience that will sooth the body and soul.
Minerals from these springs offer an abundance of benefits, including:
- Natural pain relief from sore muscles
- Stress reduction and better sleep
- Relieves skin conditions
- Boosts blood circulation
- Eases nasal congestion
5 Natural Hot Springs to Visit This Winter.
With so much winter fun to embrace, staying inside just isn’t an option. Layer up, get out there and try new experiences. You may become a winter-weather junkie yet!
What outdoor winter activities do you love? Tell us about them in the comments!
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