#AtoZChallenge | Z is for Zero Degrees, Staying Warm and Embracing Winter

I went to Iceland in January three years ago. When packing for my trip, I knew I needed to bring warm clothing as we were taking an adventure tour and would be spending most of our time outside exploring. Packing for Iceland wasn’t a problem because the first thing I learned upon arriving is that Maine is colder.

Having the right winter gear is essential if you want to truly embrace winter. You’re not going to have fun if you are cold or wet. So how do I dress for winter? Layers, Layers, Layers. The colder the weather, the more you want add on the layers.

Below are some winter gear items that keep me warm.

  • Winter Jacket. This is a must have item and necessary for any excursions in colder weather.
  • Fleece or Zip Up. Under my jacket, I add a lighter weight zip up jacket for an extra layer of warmth.
  • Snow Pants. Waterproof and warm. Pants are the first to get wet out in the snow. You need to cover them up for added protection.
  • Hat. Keeping your head warm is key. Basically, you want to try to cover anything exposed to the cold air.
  • Earmuffs. If your hat doesn’t cover your ears, earmuffs can help. Fun fact, earmuffs were invented in Maine. They still celebrate Chester Greenwood Day each December in honor of their hometown son.
  • Balaclavas. If it’s really, really cold then adding one of these to your gear will help keep your head and face warm.
  • Long Underwear. I have different weights and styles depending on the temperatures. I have a lightweight, silk layer that doesn’t add a lot of bulk but keeps me warmer. I also some thermal pairs. On really cold days, I’ll wear more than one.
  • Socks. I have a variety of winter socks but my favorite are a pair of wool compression ones. They keep my toes toasty and energize me on hikes.

I started and ended my A to Z challenge blogging about how cold winters can be in Maine but that doesn’t make winter any less amazing. The key is embracing it.

Do you like being outside in the winter? Do you have a go-to piece of winter gear?

Parkas (3)

I’m participating in a Blogging A-Z Challenge for April 2018. I will be posting new content every day this month except most Sundays. Each post is associated with a letter of the alphabet, starting with A and ending with Z. My theme for the challenge is Winters in Maine. To read more of my A to Z posts, click HERE.

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28 thoughts on “#AtoZChallenge | Z is for Zero Degrees, Staying Warm and Embracing Winter”

  1. Melanie Crouse says:
    Reply

    I grew up in a place where it often got cold, but it wasn’t until I moved to Maine that I learned the importance of dressing for the weather! It makes life so much more enjoyable. I have really enjoyed your posts this month. I will be back! Melanie’s Stories

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  5. sizzlesue15 says:
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    Oh you look warm despite being surrounded by snow. Congratulations on finishing AtoZ – you did it and I enjoyed all of your photos and posts presenting Maine during winter. Great to connect and enjoy your day. x

    Liked by 1 person

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