Updated 09/01/2026

While we tend to think of needing bulkier outerwear in cold weather, wearing lightweight layers provides options for different types of conditions encountered. This is my approach to layering for cold weather.

Lightweight layers are key

I used to think that the hiking season was over once the colder rainy season began. And when I did get out in the winter, I tended to wear a heavy insulated jacket that had me sweating after hiking for more than a mile or so. It doesn’t take long to warm up, especially on hikes that have elevation gain. Then I’d be miserable for the rest of the hike since I didn’t have options for making adjustments. Plus, getting too wet from sweat in cold weather isn’t just uncomfortable — it can also increase the risk of hypothermia.

Over time, I learned that lightweight layers are the best way to stay warm and dry on the trail. Instead of relying on one bulky jacket, layering allows you to regulate your temperature as your activity level and the weather change. This method also means that I can utilize clothing and outerwear that I already have for hiking at other times of the year instead of needing purchase winter-specific outerwear. Make sure to carry a backpack large enough to stow layers so you can make adjustments as needed – lightweight items that pack down small are ideal for this reason.

Your First Layer: Hiking Tops and Bottoms

A hiking top and bottom form your first layers for warmth and comfort on the trail. These layers help regulate your temperature as you move, keeping you cozy without feeling bulky. They also wick moisture away from your skin, helping you stay comfortable as your body warms up on climbs or during steady effort.

This layer should feel comfortable to move in and dry quickly. I rely on baselayers that work across seasons, since they’re just as useful on cool spring and fall hikes as they are in winter. For tops, I prefer midweight alpaca or merino wool options that allow for ease of movement and provide extra warmth when conditions are colder. For bottoms, I usually stick with wool leggings that include wind panels or softshell hiking pants, rather than layering additional baselayer pants under my hiking pants — this setup keeps me warm without overheating and avoids the hassle of removing an extra layer on the trail.

Arms of Andes Alpaca Base Layer Half-Zip

This midweight baselayer is made from alpaca fibers that provide warmth with semi-hollow fibers that trap heat efficiently while staying breathable. Alpaca’s natural properties help regulate temperature and manage moisture, drying quickly as you move on the trail. The fabric is soft and flexible, staying comfortable without restricting movement, and provides reliable insulation across varying effort levels for cold-weather hiking.

See my full review of the Arms of Andes Half-Zip Top

Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Tights

These heavyweight tights are made from merino wool with synthetic windproof panels across the front to block cold wind while remaining breathable. They include two pockets for small essentials and side zippers at the leg bottoms to make them easier to put on and take off. I wear them for winter hikes because they keep me warmer than regular hiking pants and offer the freedom of movement I like in leggings, along with the wicking and temperature-regulating qualities of merino wool.

REI Activator Soft-Shell Pants

These stretchy hiking pants are made from a heavier softshell fabric than typical lightweight hiking pants, providing extra warmth and wind resistance for cold-weather hikes. They feature articulated knees for mobility and zippered hand and back pockets for secure storage.

Midlayers

Midlayers provide insulation by trapping body heat while remaining breathable, making them a key part of a layering system for cold-weather hiking. I usually start with a lightweight fleece or pullover for moderate cold, then add a warmer insulated jacket when conditions are colder or I plan to take breaks. A good midlayer allows movement without overheating and can be stashed in a pack until needed.

Outdoor Vitals Ventus Hoodie

The Ventus Hoodie is an ultralight synthetic midlayer with body-mapped insulation designed for warmth and breathability. During active hiking, the insulation stretches to allow airflow, and when activity slows, it contracts to retain heat. The jacket has perforated underarm panels for ventilation, a ripstop nylon shell with a DWR coating for wind and moisture resistance, and a hood with elastic binding that moves with you.

See my full review of the Ventus Hoodie

Columbia Glacial Half Zip Fleece Pullover

This budget-friendly pullover is made from lightweight polyester microfleece and serves as a versatile midlayer. Fleece is breathable, wicks moisture, and traps heat, making it great for layering under an insulated jacket on colder hikes, though it doesn’t block wind as effectively as some other midlayer options. The half-zip design allows for ventilation, and elasticized cuffs help retain warmth.

Women’s Half Zip Fleece Pullover    Men’s Half Zip Fleece Pullover

Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket

The Vario Jacket is a lightweight insulated midlayer that provides a bit more warmth than the Ventus Hoodie while staying breathable. It has underarm vents to regulate temperature and a full front zipper for easy layering. For hiking in cold weather, I use this jacket  when I want extra warmth but don’t need a heavier insulated jacket.

See my full review of the Vario Jacket

Himali Ascent Stretch Hoodie

The Ascent Hoodie is a heavier weight synthetic jacket with more insulation than most synthetic jackets, making it well-suited for colder conditions and activities like snowshoeing. It’s slightly bulkier for carrying in a pack, but the overall feel of this jacket is super soft, with just enough stretch to provide comfort and freedom of movement on the trail while keeping you warm. Features include two hand pockets and one chest pocket with zippers, a larger hood that can accommodate a helmet, and elasticized cuffs on the sleeves.

See my full review of the Ascent Hoodie

Women's Ascent Stretch Hoodie     Men's Ascent Stretch Hoodie

Outer layers

In the Pacific Northwest, cold-weather hiking usually involves some mix of rain, wind, or snow, which is why I always bring a rain jacket and rain pants. Even on dry days, they’re handy for cutting wind and holding in warmth. I don’t usually put on rain pants unless the rain is heavier, instead relying on my regular hiking pants and adding gaiters in wet or snowy conditions to keep my lower legs and feet drier.

Outdoor Vitals Tushar Rain Jacket

The Tushar is a minimalist-style rain jacket that does exactly what it needs to: keep you dry on trail. But it also has several features that make it a stand-out option, including a softer fabric feel inside and out, pit zips for ventilation, and a lightweight construction that packs down small for stashing in your pack.

See my full review of the Tushar Rain Jacket

REI Rainier Rain Pants

I prefer to use rain pants with full-length zippers so they are easier to pull on and take off when hiking without needing to remove your shoes. These rain pants include zippered hand pockets – a feature not often found on rain pants, making them a practical choice for heavier rain on the trail.

Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiters: Waterproof and breathable, these gaiters attach to your boots and cover up to the knee, keeping your feet and lower legs warm and dry in rain or snow.

Footwear

In cold weather, I switch to waterproof hiking shoes to keep my feet warm and dry, and to handle higher water levels when crossing streams. Since my feet tend to run cold, I wear wool or alpaca fiber socks for warmth and moisture management, adding a thin liner sock underneath in the coldest conditions for extra insulation. Gaiters can be a helpful addition, especially when hiking in snow, to keep your feet and lower legs drier and warmer.

Hoka Speedgoat 6 Mid GTX

These waterproof mids from Hoka provide extra ankle support with a neoprene-like sleeve at the top that also helps keep debris out. I sized up a half-size to accommodate two layers of socks in winter without feeling tight. I’ve hiked in them on rainy and muddy trails, and the heavy cushioning keeps my feet comfortable while the Vibram Megagrip outsoles deliver excellent traction.

Wigwam Merino Hiker Socks: Sized slightly larger than normal to layer comfortably over liner socks, these provide warmth and cushioning for cold-weather hikes.

REI Wool Liner Socks: Thin but warm, these wool liner socks work well under thicker socks for extra insulation and moisture management.

Hats, Gloves & Neck Gaiters

Keeping your head and hands warm is especially important in cold weather. I usually rely on the hood of my jacket rather than a beanie unless it’s particularly cold. In colder or windy conditions, I add a lightweight wool or fleece-lined hat for extra warmth without adding bulk.

To keep drafts off my neck, I prefer a neck gaiter over a scarf. Wool or fleece gaiters are noticeably warmer than thin synthetic options, providing insulation without restricting movement or layering.

My hands get cold easily, so gloves are always part of my cold-weather kit. I usually carry two pairs: a lightweight pair for most conditions and a pair of mittens for extra warmth when needed. I look for gloves that are touchscreen compatible so I don’t have to remove them to check a GPS or map.

• Smartwool Merino Beanie
• Buff Polar Neck Gaiter
• Black Diamond Midweight Screentap Fleece Gloves

These are the clothing choices I rely on for cold-weather hiking, and they help me stay warm, dry, and comfortable on the trail. Adapt these layers to your needs and enjoy winter hiking with confidence.

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