Essentials for “ no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes”

[domestic_engineer]

What kind of clothing (adults and kids) do you need to invest in if you’re going to subscribe to the idea of “no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes” that @wathementioned in an earlier post?  
Specific brand and product suggestions, in addition to guiding principles,  would be appreciated. 

[prairiewindmomma]

For rain, I like Columbia brand rain jackets and rain pants. If you need warmer covering for extended days out or for just above freezing temps, add long underwear under the pants and either go with a heavier waterproof coat or layer long undershirts in also.

[gardenmom5]

What kind of weather are you dressing for?  You do NOT have to spend a lot of money, just really pay attention to the fibers and how something is made.  What's available changes every year.

Torrential rain

--- Gore-Tex, or competent substitute.  (I picked up a cheap rain suit from costco for DH - it keeps him dry, even in our rain.  So you don't have to buy "actual" gore-tex.  unless you have an unlimited budget.)  It's breathable so you don't overheat, but you'll stay dry.

Cold

 

wool (silk works too.) or a very warm (heavier weave/knit) man-made fiber.  Stay away from cotton and raime.   

First –

Boots  

·        Steger mukluks are rated to  -20 F. soft, very flexible.  They outfit artic teams.

·        A pair of yaktrax http://yaktrax.com/products.aspx can make walking on compact icy snow or ice easier.   

·         http://www.mytights.com/us/levante-plain-wool-tights.html   

 

 

Long underwear

Quality LJ’s come in three different weights – light for indoors, med- for in between/indoors/outdoors /med-cold temperatures, and heavy/expedition weight for serious time spent outside in very cold areas.  Rule #1 – it *must* breath, and wick moisture away from your skin.  You want something that will insulate, but allow perspiration to evaporate.   It will also keep you warm when outside, but not overly warm inside.  After meeting those requirements for  fiber, everything else is personal preference.  Should fit fairly snug to your skin.   

·        Stay away from cotton.   In cold areas with snowy winter camps you can find signs that say “cotton kills”.  Cotton absorbs 4X’s its weight in water (including perspiration), and takes forever to dry.  I also hate polypropelene – it’s really not that good at insulation, though you’ll find it most places because it is cheap.

·        Good fibers are wool, silk, and some synthetic/polar-types that are available under different names depending upon manufacturer and vendor.  E.g.  MTS from REI  , Patagonia,      

·        Spandex fibers can be good for socks as well.  2dd did cross-country, and winter crew in upstate NY using spandex.  Stay away from cotton socks.

Again, fiber is everything –

quality polar fleece can be warm, doesn't really absorb water.  not all polar fleece is created equal.

wool sweaters, etc. are good.   acrylic for scarves/sweaters/etc. are about looks - not warmth.

if you want to be able to freely move, don't bother with an expensive  down parka. They are bulky.   (good if you're just sitting.  if you need serious cold, there is canada goose.  the serious ones, not the ones they sell to skiers and snowmobilers. 

 I bought my daughter a hideously expensive (and that was on *sale*!)  wool/angora blend long hooded coat with a fox fur ruff helps keep the face warm.  (the real stuff - not the fake that is for looks but add nothing functional.)  Extremely soft and lightweight, and *very* warm.  (as compared to my good quality wool/cashmere coat).   

When trying on gloves, ear warmers, (or even coats) put it on in the store, and see how fast you become uncomfortably warm.  

I have lined leather gloves from target that are warmer than some more expensive gloves from more expensive stores.

Some good suppliers –

www.Wintersilks.com – have a sale going on currently.  Three weights of longunderwear.

 www.rei.com – they have sale and clearance pages.  10% back off all new-price purchases if you pay a $20 lifetime joining fee.   Very high quality long underwear, gloves, ear warmers, messenger bags, etc.

Edited September 11, 2020 by gardenmom5

[Pen]

You need to be more specific about the weather circumstances IMO.    Snow? Ice? Winter sailing? Tropical Heat? 

[Arctic Bunny]

13 minutes ago, Pen said:

You need to be more specific about the weather circumstances IMO.    Snow? Ice? Winter sailing? Tropical Heat? 

Also, humidity. Dressing for my dry cold is different than the coast.

[Guest]

When I was planning a trip to the Alps in February, I used this statement as my guiding principle for buying and packing clothes. Im quite cold-sensitive and this was one of my big worries: that I would be freezing all the time. 

For my jacket, I bought a packable down jacket with a hood from LL Bean. Highly recommend! The face that it packs into its own pocket was a huge boon in airports and trains. I clipped it on my backpack with a carabiner when I didn’t need the warmth. 

For a base layer, my dd and I both got a lightweight “silk” thermal from Costco. This also doubles as sleepwear. 

I had a flannel shirt from LL Bean, two cable-knit sweaters from I think LL Bean or Lands End and a black cashmere sweater from one of those two as well. The cashmere was absolutely terrific because it can look dressier and it is not bulky. I also brought two pairs of wool socks from Duluth. Those were crucial because my feet get very cold. (I had other socks, too, but wore these when conditions were coldest/wettest.) I brought a grey poshmark scarf, which was also great by being multi-use, as it was warm but also elegant. I brought two pairs of shoes; a pair of black combats and Northface shearling laced boots. Those boots are also amazing for working both for actual snow/sleet/rain, yet looking more like fashion boots than snow gear. 

I had a very warm, lined hat with ear flaps. Dh thinks its dorky but I would never, no way be in the mountains without it. 

I have a slim pair of bicycling gloves that I usually wear because I still have great articulation in them, though I brought very warm mittens (recommended here) for snow or if my hands were too cold. I didn’t actually wear these much. I think the only time I wore them outside was when we went up on top of Nordkette mountain. 

There was never a time I was unhappy about the clothes I brought and I was never too cold. (A couple of times, I was too hot once we were inside restaurants and I had to peel off a couple layers.)

[domestic_engineer]

39 minutes ago, Pen said:

You need to be more specific about the weather circumstances IMO.    Snow? Ice? Winter sailing? Tropical Heat? 

 

24 minutes ago, arctic_bunny said:

Also, humidity. Dressing for my dry cold is different than the coast.

You are both so right.  I can’t believe I overlooked that important detail!  
 

I’m envisioning cold, windy, humid weather. Sometimes snow. Think Chicago winter. Sigh. This is going to be quite a mind shift for me if I undertake this. 

[Ottakee]

What type of weather?  What activities?  Ages of kids?

Often you can find good quality used stuff on FB marketplace, thrift stores, online sales, etc.

 

[domestic_engineer]

For wool sweaters - are you recommending thick/bulky wool sweaters or the newer thin stuff like smartwool sells?

[Ottakee]

Just now, domestic_engineer said:

For wool sweaters - are you recommending thick/bulky wool sweaters or the newer thin stuff like smartwool sells?

For layering I love the thin stuff.

[Arctic Bunny]

Dry feet. I can manage anything else, as long as my feet are dry.

[domestic_engineer]

Just now, Ottakee said:

What type of weather?  What activities?  Ages of kids?

Often you can find good quality used stuff on FB marketplace, thrift stores, online sales, etc.

 

Ages:  Teens all the way down to elementary.

Activities:  from playing in the snow to basic mom-kicked-us-outside-cuZ-we-were-driving-her-nuts exploring.   Some outdoor adventures/hikes in the woods and off the beaten path may occur so fabric durability is a factor too. 
 

Yes, I’m trying to get a jump on used clothing for the kids!  (Or maybe that’s just my idealized thinking)

[Garga]

1 hour ago, Bagels McGruffikin said:

 

And if you live in a particularly cold climate look into LONGER rain coats and parkas. The different in warmth having that layer down to my knees instead of ending at my butt is enormous.

YES! The year I got a coat that went to my ankles changed everything!

[Arctic Bunny]

11 minutes ago, Bagels McGruffikin said:

Especially for sitting outside on bleachers 🥶 

And seat cushions.

[Laura Corin]

Waterproof and breathable jacket, trousers, boots. Gore-Tex or similar.  We've had good luck with Lands End. 

Then layers. For me that would be merino base layers, smart wool socks, lined trousers, flannel shirt, fleece,  down vest, merino buff, ski gloves, waterproof beanie. I'm wearing much of that in the house right now.

[Catwoman]

1 hour ago, Quill said:

When I was planning a trip to the Alps in February, I used this statement as my guiding principle for buying and packing clothes. Im quite cold-sensitive and this was one of my big worries: that I would be freezing all the time. 

For my jacket, I bought a packable down jacket with a hood from LL Bean. Highly recommend! The face that it packs into its own pocket was a huge boon in airports and trains. I clipped it on my backpack with a carabiner when I didn’t need the warmth. 

For a base layer, my dd and I both got a lightweight “silk” thermal from Costco. This also doubles as sleepwear. 

I had a flannel shirt from LL Bean, two cable-knit sweaters from I think LL Bean or Lands End and a black cashmere sweater from one of those two as well. The cashmere was absolutely terrific because it can look dressier and it is not bulky. I also brought two pairs of wool socks from Duluth. Those were crucial because my feet get very cold. (I had other socks, too, but wore these when conditions were coldest/wettest.) I brought a grey poshmark scarf, which was also great by being multi-use, as it was warm but also elegant. I brought two pairs of shoes; a pair of black combats and Northface shearling laced boots. Those boots are also amazing for working both for actual snow/sleet/rain, yet looking more like fashion boots than snow gear. 

I had a very warm, lined hat with ear flaps. Dh thinks its dorky but I would never, no way be in the mountains without it. 

I have a slim pair of bicycling gloves that I usually wear because I still have great articulation in them, though I brought very warm mittens (recommended here) for snow or if my hands were too cold. I didn’t actually wear these much. I think the only time I wore them outside was when we went up on top of Nordkette mountain. 

There was never a time I was unhappy about the clothes I brought and I was never too cold. (A couple of times, I was too hot once we were inside restaurants and I had to peel off a couple layers.)

 

Do you have a link to the packable down jacket from LL Bean? That sounds like something that is worth having!

[HS Mom in NC]

Maybe you guys will know. 

Anyone have a recommendation for snowy weather socks that aren't wool?  I'm allergic to wool.

[Katy]

I don't have time to google right now, but several years ago a study was done comparing modern synthetics (fleece, goretex) to ancient natural insulators (wool, leather) that say, Vikings would have used in cold wet, humid conditions like sailing and fishing.  They found wool and leather was much warmer, even when wet, than synthetics.

Having said that,  I still love my Columbia rain gear.  It's sturdy enough to last for years, and easier than other brands to find on sale. The zippers do pop out with any sort of pressure but they're easy to fix and don't get jammed up the way some other brands do.

You can find 100% wool sweaters at thrift stores, just watch out for moth holes and make sure to be careful when you launder them or someone will "helpfully" throw them into the dryer for you and you end up with child-size felted sweaters.

I just bought some wool socks for my kids on Amazon that are a lot like SmartWool but MUCH cheaper and available even for the smallest kids.

[KungFuPanda]

I think people who say this must live in cold regions. What clothing makes a summer swamp comfortable? It was downright nice on my walk today when the humidity finally went below 80%. I’m a person who actually LOVES summer, but I’ll concede that your clothing can’t necessarily make some hot sticky days comfortable. 

[prairiewindmomma]

28 minutes ago, Homeschool Mom in AZ said:

Maybe you guys will know. 

Anyone have a recommendation for snowy weather socks that aren't wool?  I'm allergic to wool.

I don't mean to be condescending, but are you truly allergic? I thought I was, and I'm not. The allergy itself (to the lanolin) is actually pretty rare, and what most people react to is the prickliness/texture of the fabric. If that is the case, you can use a silk liner and then layer the wool socks over the silk liner.

[Guest]

39 minutes ago, Catwoman said:

 

Do you have a link to the packable down jacket from LL Bean? That sounds like something that is worth having!

Yes ma’am. It is this one.

Really a brilliant piece of gear to have...I did wish it looked less “American,” but oh well. 

[prairiewindmomma]

16 minutes ago, KungFuPanda said:

I think people who say this must live in cold regions. What clothing makes a summer swamp comfortable? It was downright nice on my walk today when the humidity finally went below 80%. I’m a person who actually LOVES summer, but I’ll concede that your clothing can’t necessarily make some hot sticky days comfortable. 

When I lived in the sub-tropics, I lived in long sleeves and long pants that were cotton and loose fitting.  If I had to be out in the sun, I wore uv rated clothing, and a huge hat and carried a personal battery operated fan and a 40oz water bottle. 🙂

[prairiewindmomma]

For Chicago, you need a down long coat.  Expect to spend more than $300 and so buy a classic styled coat. I agree on the silk underthings and wool overthings. Learn the fine art of bundling to go out. Winter temps are enough to take your breath away. I am so freaking glad I no longer live somewhere with subzero temps.

If money is no object, I would buy a Canada Goose coat. https://www.nordstrom.com/s/canada-goose-mystique-down-parka-with-genuine-coyote-fur-trim/3383166?origin=category-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FBrands%2FCanada Goose&color=navy

Edited September 11, 2020 by prairiewindmomma

[Catwoman]

4 minutes ago, Quill said:

Yes ma’am. It is this one.

Really a brilliant piece of gear to have...I did wish it looked less “American,” but oh well. 

 

Thanks!!!

[Guest]

18 minutes ago, KungFuPanda said:

I think people who say this must live in cold regions. What clothing makes a summer swamp comfortable? It was downright nice on my walk today when the humidity finally went below 80%. I’m a person who actually LOVES summer, but I’ll concede that your clothing can’t necessarily make some hot sticky days comfortable. 

Yeah, this is one reason I have come to realize I would rather go somewhere (on a trip) that may be too cold than too hot. If it’s cold or snowing or sleeting or raining a chilly mizzle, I may not love it, but I can put on better clothes. But if it’s 90% humidity in Maryland...you know how that goes. 

I’m one of those people who really hates the heat. It makes me feel sick and dizzy. 

[HS Mom in NC]

12 minutes ago, prairiewindmomma said:

I don't mean to be condescending, but are you truly allergic? I thought I was, and I'm not. The allergy itself (to the lanolin) is actually pretty rare, and what most people react to is the prickliness/texture of the fabric. If that is the case, you can use a silk liner and then layer the wool socks over the silk liner.

My skin turns red and blotchy like a rash and itches even after I've removed the wool, so I think so.

I'm not allergic to lanolin because I use it for skin care nursing and as a lotion for dry skin with no problem.

Edited September 11, 2020 by Homeschool Mom in AZ

[Pawz4me]

14 minutes ago, Quill said:

Yeah, this is one reason I have come to realize I would rather go somewhere (on a trip) that may be too cold than too hot. If it’s cold or snowing or sleeting or raining a chilly mizzle, I may not love it, but I can put on better clothes. But if it’s 90% humidity in Maryland...you know how that goes. 

I’m one of those people who really hates the heat. It makes me feel sick and dizzy. 

Same, especially the bolded. I SO wish there was clothing that could help.

[prairiewindmomma]

Yes, I have the same, complete with hives.  I don't have this with superfine and ultra fine merino....so my allergy isn't to wool itself.  I just wanted to toss that tidbit out there, in case you have the chance to test yourself against the merino. (IE--you may be able to buy and tolerate some stuff from Lands End. ; ) )

Try the Darn Tough brand Thermolite socks....not wool, but warm. https://darntough.com/collections/material-thermolite/products/thermolite-padded-over-the-calf-cushion

[domestic_engineer]

2 hours ago, KungFuPanda said:

I think people who say this must live in cold regions. What clothing makes a summer swamp comfortable? It was downright nice on my walk today when the humidity finally went below 80%. I’m a person who actually LOVES summer, but I’ll concede that your clothing can’t necessarily make some hot sticky days comfortable. 

You're right about living in a cold region.  I'm not even thinking about changing my mindset for the summertime.  I'll just focus my attention on being grateful for air conditioning and remain inside!!

 

[J-rap]

2 hours ago, Homeschool Mom in AZ said:

Maybe you guys will know. 

Anyone have a recommendation for snowy weather socks that aren't wool?  I'm allergic to wool.

Can you wear other socks under the wool socks?  I'm allergic to wool too, but only if it touches my skin.  So I can wear thin cotton socks under wool socks and I'm okay.  (As long as my boots have room for all of that!)

[J-rap]

I generally plan on 0 degree weather for our winters, knowing it can be +30 degrees or -30 degrees.  A jacket that's long enough to cover my thighs is a must.  Under that, I usually wear a cotton turtleneck with a wool cardigan.  If I'm just taking the dog on a walk, thicker jeans will work as long as my thighs and feet are warm.  If I'm actually going to spend a good length of time outside, I'll add some long underwear under my jeans.  Cords make a difference too!  They add a layer of warmth.

Good warm boots high enough to be above snow is important if you're in a snowy area.  For everyday, I often wear socks that are a little thicker and part wool.  If I'm going to spend a length of time outside, or going cross-country skiing, etc., I'll wear 100% wool socks, high ones.  (Generally with thin cotton socks underneath because pure wool touching my skin bothers me.)

Hat, scarf, mittens...  Just find some that are warm.  You'll feel the difference. 

We always had a few face masks as well -- a full-head mask with openings for eyes.  We didn't have one for everyone...  Just a few that we shared among us for especially frigid days when someone was outside (playing hockey, waiting for a bus in 20-below-0-weather, etc.)

 

[wathe]

Things to add:

You can probably use much of what you already own.

Many layers are better than one thick layer.

I aim for a wicking base layer (synthetic for me, wool is too itchy, even modern fancy wool), a mid insulating layer (usually fleece) and a waterproof outer layer.

Base layer fabrics matter if you are going to be exerting yourself, or if you are going to be out for a long time.  For shorter or more sedentary activities, it doesn't matter as much - -I'll be happy with a casual cotton t-shirt for my base if we are all just hanging around for the evening etc .

Layers work best when there is some space between them.  I like a form-fitting base layer, then looser mid layer, and a very loose outer layer.

Serious winter boots need to be roomy to be warm.  I wear at lease one size bigger than my usually shoe size.  If the extra socks are compressed, or the boots are tight, they won't be warm.

Extremities matter a lot.  Good mitts, a good toque, and a good neck gaiter will get you very far.

I'm not big on down for my region.  I'm in the great lakes region in a snow belt (Georgian Bay), where winter can be quite humid and wet.  Wet down is useless.  I prefer synthetic  insulation.  It's a bit bulkier and heavier, but for casual use I don't think that matters much.  I find it performs much better in damp conditions.  And it's way cheaper.   I do like down for very cold, dry weather, though. My down coat comes out for the week or two of -20 to -25C cold-snap temps we get most years.  Otherwise it sits in the closet.

For kids, snow pants and parka, good mitts and hat, good boots.  They don't seem to care about layers.  I think it's because they tend to be more active.  For rainy weather, waterproof rain paints and raincoat and boots.  No fancy fabrics - they are happy in a rubber rain suit.  And we are usually close enough to home or car that swapping out something wet for dry is pretty easy.

In our scouting group, we manage to dress kids for all-day outdoor activities and cool-weather camping without having parents spend too much $$$$.  Borrow to try before you buy anything pricey.  Wool socks are cheap at costco.  Vinyl rain suits and rubber boots (big enough for thick socks without being tight) are good enough for most kids.  Ditto Costco snow suits and snow boots.  The sweat pants or yoga pants or tights most kids already own are fine for base layers. T-shirts and sweatshirts are fine under a parka or rain suit.  Favour synthetic if you already have it, but don't rush out to buy special clothes for growing kids unless you've already tried what they already have and found it inadequate.  Most of our cold weather activities aren't expedition camping - creative combining of clothes they already own should be fine for most kids. 

 

 

[Arctic Bunny]

This is the part where I tell you that I’ve lived above the Arctic Circle and below, and a Canada Goose coat has always been overkill. The down parka from LL Bean has been enough for being outside with the kids way up there.

[Btervet]

Anyone have any good suggestions for boys shoes, to handle to wet and cold? We always used to just do rainboots or snowboots, but he really dislikes those, I think because they aren't tight on the foot and come up so high. He runs and climbs trees and heavy boots just aren't practical. But he goes through 3-4 pairs of sneakers over a winter because of the damage if being wet constantly. 

[Arctic Bunny]

5 minutes ago, Btervet said:

Anyone have any good suggestions for boys shoes, to handle to wet and cold? We always used to just do rainboots or snowboots, but he really dislikes those, I think because they aren't tight on the foot and come up so high. He runs and climbs trees and heavy boots just aren't practical. But he goes through 3-4 pairs of sneakers over a winter because of the damage if being wet constantly. 

Mucks or Bogs. They come in different styles and different cold ratings. Otherwise, for a lace up, a hiking boot, ie Merrill?

[wintermom]

15 hours ago, domestic_engineer said:

Ages:  Teens all the way down to elementary.

Activities:  from playing in the snow to basic mom-kicked-us-outside-cuZ-we-were-driving-her-nuts exploring.   Some outdoor adventures/hikes in the woods and off the beaten path may occur so fabric durability is a factor too. 
 

Yes, I’m trying to get a jump on used clothing for the kids!  (Or maybe that’s just my idealized thinking)

Are you moving to a colder region? How different will it be to where you live now?  I wouldn't buy clothes in advance for teens. How they feel the cold and what they want to wear is very individual, I've found. We live in Canada, in a region that gets very cold, humid conditions. My 3 teen boys don't seem to get very cold, and they don't play out in the snow unless it's a specific activity like skating or skiing. Then they dress for being active outdoors. Standing and waiting for the bus or walking to school they dress a little differently.  For my teen dd, she is always cold and she wears a lot more clothing and layers.

When my dc were elementary age, and played outside almost daily, they would gradually get used to the cold through the fall, and by winter. If I put them in heavy snow pants and parkas, they would be stripping down because they were too hot. I see children in the school yards all the time taking off their huge, heavy parkas. If you're active outside, layers are better, but that takes more time and effort to prepare. Most parents just buy the big coats as it's easier and more convenient.

Good footwear that is warm, stays dry and has good grip is important. You'd need to see the snow conditions, though. Slushy snow with salt from the roads will damage boots. Snow on trails tends to be drier. 

[wintermom]

7 hours ago, Btervet said:

Anyone have any good suggestions for boys shoes, to handle to wet and cold? We always used to just do rainboots or snowboots, but he really dislikes those, I think because they aren't tight on the foot and come up so high. He runs and climbs trees and heavy boots just aren't practical. But he goes through 3-4 pairs of sneakers over a winter because of the damage if being wet constantly. 

Slip-on style boots make running and climbing difficult. I'd go with a lace-up boot that is waterproof. I have fairly heavy hiking boots that are amazing for running, snowshoeing, rock climbing in the winter, and they don't go up too high. They are rather heavy, but you get used to them and your legs get really strong. 😉

[Laura Corin]

2 hours ago, wintermom said:

Slip-on style boots make running and climbing difficult. I'd go with a lace-up boot that is waterproof. I have fairly heavy hiking boots that are amazing for running, snowshoeing, rock climbing in the winter, and they don't go up too high. They are rather heavy, but you get used to them and your legs get really strong. 😉

I agree about hiking boots. Mine are lighter  - I  don't deal with snow much - and I  find them really comfortable.  Mine are made by Oboz. 

[domestic_engineer]

3 hours ago, wintermom said:

Are you moving to a colder region? How different will it be to where you live now? 

I'm not moving .... I'm just *trying* to change my mindset to embrace the cold.  And I'm thinking I might kick the kids outdoors more this winter than past winters.

[wintermom]

12 minutes ago, domestic_engineer said:

I'm not moving .... I'm just *trying* to change my mindset to embrace the cold.  And I'm thinking I might kick the kids outdoors more this winter than past winters.

Most everyone who moves to my area say, "In order to enjoy the winter, you need to find an outdoor activity that you enjoy." Skating, snowshoeing, hiking, skiing, sledding are all really popular. If you can afford it, fat tire bikes are really cool for all kinds of weather.  I can't really kick my teens outside (they are bigger than me and they'd only stay out for 5 min), but if they can be outside with friends taking part in an activity they enjoy it makes a huge difference.

Edited September 12, 2020 by wintermom

[skimomma]

You have gotten some great advice already.  I live in an area that is "winter" with snow on the ground for 6 months of the year.  We are outside every day to exercise, socialize, and just do life.  Most weekends involve a bonfire with friends or cookout, even in sub-zero temps.  We ski, snow bike, snowshoe, sled, or skate every day, sometimes multiple times.   Plus I spend many days standing around outside supporting my dd in her sport.

There are three things that I find essential for each family member no matter the cost:

1.  A down or synthetic puff sweater.  These pack down into a bag about the size of a quart sized mason jar.  I keep mine in my purse when it is not on my body.  Paired with a windproof rain jacket, it is equivalent to a winter coat.  It can also be stuffed under a winter parka to add another 20 degrees of warmth and is also great to throw on alone on a cool but not freezing day.

2.  Buffs.  They make a polar variety that is thicker than the thin ones.  We wear these indoors and out.  They can be pulled up to make a base layer under your hat too.  On really cold days, I add a chunky scarf on top.

3.  Hand and foot warmers.  We have "rechargable" ones that we boil to reactivate.  But I also keep a single-use case in each car and a handful in my purse.  These are essential when I am not active.  No amount of socks is going to keep inactive feet warm for hours upon hours of standing.  I also carry a small foam garden kneeling pad to stand on if I know I will be in one place for extended periods.

Because we are serious winter people, we have invested in Canada Goose parkas and mittens.  They are very expensive but worth every penny during hour 6 of standing in a blizzard watching my dd compete.
 

[gardenmom5]

22 hours ago, domestic_engineer said:

I’m envisioning cold, windy, humid weather. Sometimes snow. Think Chicago winter. Sigh. This is going to be quite a mind shift for me if I undertake this. 

Think long.  That was a big reason my daughter didn't like the down parka I bought her. Then we replaced it with a long wool/angora coat with a hood that had a fox fur ruff.  Good boots, good gloves.  She was protected from the wind (which was a bigger complaint for her than the cold) - then it was only the tip of her nose that was cold.

22 hours ago, domestic_engineer said:

For wool sweaters - are you recommending thick/bulky wool sweaters or the newer thin stuff like smartwool sells?

for most things - you can do thin layers, you can take on or off.

I've also done just a fisherman/nordic sweater with a windbreaker on top.

21 hours ago, Bagels McGruffikin said:

Thinner is almost always better, unless you’re trying to wet waterproof, like a fisherman’s sweater on a wet, cold boat. If it is dense or felted that is absolutely best if you know you’re getting soaked.

And for kids, snow bibs. Seriously we love them so much for the under 12 crowd.

yes.   wool can absorb several times it's weight in water - and still be warm!

I have costco sheepskin boots - cheap (this is the time of year for them), i have walked through snow in them.  the outside has gotten wet - but my feet are still warm and dry.

20 hours ago, Katy said:

I don't have time to google right now, but several years ago a study was done comparing modern synthetics (fleece, goretex) to ancient natural insulators (wool, leather) that say, Vikings would have used in cold wet, humid conditions like sailing and fishing.  They found wool and leather was much warmer, even when wet, than synthetics.

 

Gore-tex isn't about warmth -it's about keeping dry in a very wet environment.  It is breathable so it allows perspiration to evaporate - which is also important in keeping warm and not over heating.  I'd find the link if I could - modern marvels did a show on "dry" - they put two people in their "rain tank", one in gortex, one in standard rainwear. .  . the standard rainwear clothes were soaked underneath - the goretex clothes were still dry.

I bought my dh a 'rain suit' - jacket and pants, from costco.  not the $$ of gortex, but he can go walking in the pouring rain and his clothes will stay dry and he won't overheat.  overheating increases perspiration which must evaporate so you will stay dry or it can lower your body temperature.

Edited September 12, 2020 by gardenmom5

[gardenmom5]

I find hats too warm in all but the absolute coldest conditions.  (I have a lot of hair - and it is a natural insulator).  I prefer an ear warmer/band.  good quality polar fleece.

some of my most favorite ski gloves I ever had were fleece lined lambskin. they were warm (but thick) - until they simply started wearing out.  my hands grew more after I bought them - so i'd turn them over to my kids to use in the summer.

[Carol in Cal.]

The thing about Chicago is, indoors is usually overheated (by my taste) although if there is a draft it is often an extremely cold one.  So my view is you want a bunch of layers of outerwear, because if you have long underwear on you will instantly overheat and start sweating as soon as you go inside, because you can’t take if off like outerwear.  So long underwear is only for things like sitting in a duck blind for 4 hours.  It’s not for going outside to play for an hour and then going in to go to the bathroom or have a snack.

I personally almost always hate wearing hats.  They are too hot for me unless I’m skiing all day in Vermont, and easy to lose if you take them off.  I prefer pulling a heavy scarf up over my ears for a while if I’m getting cold.  Having said that, if I had short hair I would probably feel differently.  You get a surprising amount of warmth from long hair worn down.

Socks—I am allergic to wool but usually can get away with it for socks or mittens.  However, I have discovered that socks with a wicking layer keep my feet pretty warm even without wool.  They are pricy but I wear them for a long time and there is nothing like them that I have found that is cheaper.  The brand I buy is Wrightsock Coolmesh, from REI, and I get the quarter socks which are Bobby sock height , or the crew socks, which go up your calf more for extended warmth.  No wool in these thin ones for running, and I often wear them in the winter as well.  You need some room between your sock and your shoe to stay very warm.  To be even warmer, I sometimes wear hiking socks, which are heavier.  Generally for those at least the outer layer is wool, though.  But I can take that just fine, and as long as the cuff doesn’t go to far up my leg even wool socks don’t bother me, so someone who is even more allergic might not like these.

Boots—I love my Costoco Uggs shearling knockoffs, and they have kids’ sizes also.They are very warm, and being so cheap I don’t mind going into slush with them.  I do have a pair of technical snow boots (Patagonia?) that are even warmer and are completely waterproof, which is even better, but I like taking the ‘wear’ pressure off of those with the much cheaper alternatives wherever possible.  Also, I find that any winter boots rarely dry inside enough overnight to reliably want to wear them the next day.  So I need to be able to change into something else if necessary.  YMMV, my feet do sweat a lot.  Waterproof trail running shoes or hiking shoes are great for ‘transitional’ temps when you don’t need hardcore warmth but it’s still too cold to be comfortable in sneakers.

Outerwear:  I hate the looks of long down coats, but they are undeniably the warmest thing around.  LLBean has great ones but you have to get them nowish.  Once the warmest ones sell out, they are gone until the following year.  Compromises are long wool coats, or shorter down jackets.  Neither is all that warm.  Eaton’s in Montreal used to have the BEST dress coats, long thick llama wool with a quilted lining and a layer of chamois in between the lining and the coat in the torso area, but they are closed and these coats are not made anymore AFAIK.  So for extended outdoor play ski pants over your regular pants are a great help.  For non rainy days when you’re quite active but it’s cold, the flannel lined jeans or fleece lined jeans from LLBean are fantastic.  They are not waterproof so they don’t work well in the rain though.

 

Edited September 12, 2020 by Carol in Cal.

[Pen]

On 9/11/2020 at 11:46 AM, domestic_engineer said:

 

You are both so right.  I can’t believe I overlooked that important detail!  
 

I’m envisioning cold, windy, humid weather. Sometimes snow. Think Chicago winter. Sigh. This is going to be quite a mind shift for me if I undertake this. 

 

On 9/11/2020 at 11:53 AM, domestic_engineer said:

Ages:  Teens all the way down to elementary.

Activities:  from playing in the snow to basic mom-kicked-us-outside-cuZ-we-were-driving-her-nuts exploring.   Some outdoor adventures/hikes in the woods and off the beaten path may occur so fabric durability is a factor too. 
 

Yes, I’m trying to get a jump on used clothing for the kids!  (Or maybe that’s just my idealized thinking)

 

Snow: waterproof snowsuits or waterproof pants and jackets of some sort. Gloves (or mittens or convertible gloves with over mitten). Snow boots. Hat.

 dry snow tends be comfortable IME unless one’s clothing gets wet.  Polartec or wool  (LLBean has wonderful polartec IME if that’s an option. Also excellent Turtle necks which helps keep body heat in without a lot of bulk.) 

Be careful not to dress too hot.  Sweaty is freezing situation  is bad.  Individual family members may run hotter or colder and need more or less bundling.   Listen to “I’m too hot”, or “I’m cold” and also watch for outward signs of overly cold or overly hot as some kids won’t mention it or even notice even as they are turning blue - especially if having fun. 

Hat that stays on well, like Canadian toque including ear covers, or jacket hood.  Head and face coverings if cold enough for frostbite.

 

 

Hikes in woods - jeans, boots (or hiking suitable athletic shoes and warm socks), layers...  my kids have used Bog boots with easy pull on handles and warm socks like smartwool or similar ... but bottoms can be slippery...

 

might need to consider color if it is a hunting area. 

 

Army surplus can have good rugged stuff for older kids

Edited September 12, 2020 by Pen

[domestic_engineer]

So, how do you tell a good Polartec/fleece from a bad one?  I know some brands number their fleece to deisgnate their weight. Do you always just choose the heaviest fleece?  Won’t that be bulky?   (I guess I’m scarred from childhood playing in the snow as a kid and bulked up like a marshmallow.  But on the flip side, I’m wary of these new fangled, expensive, thin layers today claiming to be warm.  I’m a mess. )

[Ottakee]

I bought Cuddle Duds at Walmart and they are a tin, WARM layer.

I am from West Michigan...so cold, wind, snow, no sun.   I bought my Arctic weight Cuddle Duds in FLORIDA....Clearwater to be exact, when a friend and I went down there for a long weekend get away and the had record cold temps.

Best souvenir I ever bought.

 

[Pen]

17 minutes ago, domestic_engineer said:

So, how do you tell a good Polartec/fleece from a bad one?  I know some brands number their fleece to deisgnate their weight. Do you always just choose the heaviest fleece?  Won’t that be bulky?   (I guess I’m scarred from childhood playing in the snow as a kid and bulked up like a marshmallow.  But on the flip side, I’m wary of these new fangled, expensive, thin layers today claiming to be warm.  I’m a mess. )

 

Everything we got from Llbean whether Polartec company or another fleece was good.  

My son liked thinner — not the thickest possible— more easy to move in especially for ice skating ...  but he tends to run hot.  

This type of thing or “Fitness Fleece”  https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/91251?page=kids-beans-sweater-fleece-pullover-kids

[Laura Corin]

6 hours ago, Pen said:

 

Everything we got from Llbean whether Polartec company or another fleece was good.  

My son liked thinner — not the thickest possible— more easy to move in especially for ice skating ...  but he tends to run hot.  

This type of thing or “Fitness Fleece”  https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/91251?page=kids-beans-sweater-fleece-pullover-kids

I tend to like thinner, so I  can adjust how warm I need to be easily.