Winter Clothes to Keep You Warm in REALLY Cold Weather

You may have heard of this lovely Norwegian saying, “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær,” which means, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes.”

After a week of extremely cold weather in most of America — and a second year in a row of arctic temperatures reaching far into the South — it just might be time to invest in some new winter clothes … the kind designed for VERY cold weather.

I will say that after going to Alaska in January of 2022, the clothes I bought for that trip have been used each year since. These aren’t trendy clothes; they are clothes to keep you warm in extreme cold, and they are worth the investment. Remember, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes!”

Maybe we can all plan a winter trip to Norway together with the wardrobe outlined below!

For reference, I’m writing this as someone who lives in Nashville, TN, a place that gets cold but typically not a place where you need an entire “very cold” wardrobe. After three decades in Nashville, I finally have such items, and it’s made a huge difference. 

8 ITEMS FOR YOUR COLD-WEATHER WARDROBE

A long, very warm coat

I got this long coat from L.L. Bean for that winter Alaska trip, but I use it ALL THE TIME. For those early morning pilates classes? I just put my leggings and tank on, grab this coat, and I’m good to go. It’s so warm. The hood has faux fur, which also helps break up the wind. It’s perhaps my favorite purchase of the last few years. It has over 2,000 reviews, so you may want to scroll through them to see if this is your next purchase.

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Very warm boots

Yes, L.L. Bean again. They really know how to keep you warm, and their stuff lasts for just about ever. L.L. Bean is based in Maine, and their products need to keep up in that super cold Maine weather! These boots are rated at their warmest level and will also keep you dry.

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Tip: Buy these ice cleats to go on over your boots so that walking in icy conditions is possible! Just $34.95.

Snow pants

Skiers will likely already have these, but we all need pants like this if there is a chance of snow where you live. Once you have the appropriate clothes, you will actually want to get outside, and these pants will keep you warm and dry. Columbia makes amazing options for cold weather with Omni-Heat technology. It helps reflect your escaping body warmth and uses it to keep you extra warm.

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Fleece neck gaiter

Yes, you may have a scarf, but a neck gaiter is really what you want for freezing temps. Layer a scarf on top if you’d like, but start with a neck gaiter. This will keep you warm, and you won’t have to toss the scarf around. It’s snug, and I like this one from Columbia with that Omni-Heat technology I described above.

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Face mask/neck gaiter combo

Sometimes, you just need a face mask. It’s that cold. Just buy one and put it in the drawer or wherever you keep your clothes for extremely cold weather. Even if you need it once every three years, you will be SO happy you have it!

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Base layer/long underwear

If you enjoy winter sports, you already have good base layers (a.k.a long underwear). If you don’t, it’s time to buy some. You’ll find that each winter, there will be days you’ll be so glad you have these. My favorite pair is by Kari Traa Rose. These are a little pricey, but they are not only warm but super cute, and I have worn them as PJs. They have a certain ski chalet Nordic feel. Even at home with the fire roaring, wearing them gives the winter vibes we all want. Travel & Leisure also gave these their highest marks. (They only make women’s sizes.)

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Serious gloves/mittens

My fingers get cold really fast. They hurt, and I’m miserable. I have yet to find a perfect solution, but these mittens, with hand warmers inserted, will get me through a terribly cold football game or that Alaska trip I keep referencing.

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Smartwool socks

I don’t want to overlook your feet, and I want to ensure everyone knows that you do NOT want cotton socks — you want wool socks. If you’ve never spent a significant amount of time in the snow, you may not know this. Cotton will absorb your sweat, does not wick, and is not insulating like wool. Smartwool is recognized worldwide for providing great, comfortable options in a wide array of colors and styles. You can find Smartwool socks at almost all outdoor stores or order them online.

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Again, to save all the tail bones across America, buy these ice cleats to go on over your boots. Save your back, wrists, and knees, and avoid all the scary things that happen when you fall on ice! Just $34.95.

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