Dressing for the Weather

There is no better time than the present to embrace the outdoors

Well, this time of year I would normally be writing about fall colors and trends. Not this year. I’ve been on my own personal quest to find clothing that will help me to withstand Minnesota temps below 70 degrees. You might think I’m joking, but anyone that knows me can understand how much I hate cold weather. I bet many are tired of hearing me complain that I am cold all of the time. Yes, I’ve had my thyroid checked! I can thank my grandfather for this trait. He would work in his garden on hot, muggy afternoons, in his long pants and a flannel shirt, loving every moment of it, with the rest of the family asking him “aren’t you hot?”

It’s all about wearing layers. I’ve been hearing that for years and evidently not listening. My advice to my clients has always been that comfort is not the key; Come on, we want to look good! I would get a chuckle when I would see my very fashionable Italian neighbor coming out of her house wearing a down jacket in May, as I thought to myself, “Wow, doesn’t she know it’s spring for gosh sakes?”

All of you skiers already know this, you dress for the weather not the season. Call me late to the party, but now I get it!

Here we go, winter gear for the hardy and not so hardy.

Heated Vest

This vest from Ororo has a rechargeable battery that slides into an inside pocket. It will keep you warm hours out on the trail! I bought this last winter and it’s my saving grace for winter walks.

Base layer

Layering is the key to staying warm, and merino wool is the best base fabric; it’s non-itch and breathable. Smartwool is my favorite.

Outerwear

I find a windproof jacket keeps me the most comfortable. If you tend to run hot this might not be the best for you. In that case, choose a down jacket for its flexibility and breathability. New to me is the Killtec brand of ski apparel.

Boots

Bos. & Company boots have ice grip technology soles with a Primaloft and wool lining that keep your feet toasty.

Ice Grippers

This item is not to keep you warm, but safe. These are lightweight, and pull over your tennis shoes or boots for a little extra traction. Who knew I shopped at Fleet Farm? Desperate times call for desperate measures! Truth be told, I shop at Fleet Farm once a year around the holidays to find ice fishing lures for my fishing-obsessed son, and I always seem to find some other useful items as well.

Visit Fleet farm for pull on traction for tennis shoes or boots.