Winter Hiking Gear Checklist: What You Actually Need

Every winter hiker needs traction devices. Period. Here's what to choose:

Microspikes - Essential for packed snow and moderate ice. Brands like Kahtoola and Hillsound are industry standards. Use on well-traveled trails below treeline. ($30-70)

Crampons - Needed for steep ice, exposed terrain, and above-treeline travel. Choose 10-12 point mountaineering crampons for serious winter peaks. Pair with compatible boots. ($100-250)

Snowshoes - Required when breaking trail through deep snow. Look for aggressive traction with heel lifters. MSR, Tubbs, and Atlas are reliable brands. ($150-350)

When to use what:

• Packed, icy trail → Microspikes
• Fresh snow over 8" → Snowshoes
• Steep ice, above treeline → Crampons
• Varied conditions → Carry both microspikes and snowshoes

Cold feet end hikes. Invest in proper winter footwear:

Insulated Winter Boots - Look for boots rated to -40°F or below. Brands like Salomon, La Sportiva, and Scarpa make excellent options. Ensure compatibility with crampons if you'll use them. ($200-400)

Gaiters - Keep snow out of your boots. Full-length gaiters are essential for deep snow travel. Outdoor Research and Black Diamond make durable options. ($40-80)

Sock System

• Liner sock (moisture-wicking)
• Midweight wool sock (insulation)
• Avoid cotton at all costs

The layering system is critical. You need to regulate temperature while staying dry.

Base Layer - Moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool. Never cotton. Brands: Smartwool, Patagonia Capilene, Icebreaker. ($50-100)

Mid Layer - Insulating layer that retains heat. Fleece (Patagonia R1) or down/synthetic puffy (Patagonia Nano Puff, Arc'teryx Atom). ($100-250)

Shell Layer - Waterproof, windproof outer layer. Hardshell jacket and pants for above-treeline travel. Gore-Tex or equivalent. ($200-500)

Insulating Layer - Heavy puffy for summits and emergencies. Down or synthetic, 800+ fill power for down. Carry even if you don't think you'll need it. ($200-400)

Head/Hands/Feet

• Warm hat (wool or fleece, covers ears)
• Balaclava for above treeline
• Insulated gloves + warm mittens as backup
• Hand warmers (backup heat source)

Winter conditions can obscure trails completely. Navigation skills and equipment are essential.

Navigation

• Map and compass (know how to use them)
• GPS device or phone app (battery dies fast in cold)
• Backup batteries or battery bank (keep warm in pocket)

Emergency Gear

• Headlamp + extra batteries (days are short)
• Fire starter (waterproof matches, lighter, tinder)
• Emergency bivy or space blanket
• First aid kit with blister treatment
• Whistle and mirror for signaling

Sun Protection

• Goggles for above treeline (wind, blowing snow)
• Sunglasses (snow blindness is real)
• Sunscreen (snow reflects UV intensely)

Hydration

• Insulated water bottles or hydration bladder with insulated tube
• Keep water bottles upside down (ice forms at top first)
• Consider a thermos with hot drinks
• Minimum 2-3 liters for a full day

Food

• High-calorie, won't-freeze foods (nuts, cheese, chocolate)
• Avoid foods that freeze solid (sandwiches, fruit)
• Eat frequently—you burn more calories in cold
• Emergency food (extra day's worth)

• Ice axe - For self-arrest on steep, icy terrain. Essential for above-treeline winter hiking on bigger peaks.
• Trekking poles - Help with balance on icy trails. Get snow baskets for deep snow.
• Avalanche gear - Beacon, probe, shovel for backcountry travel in avalanche terrain (rare in New England but exists).
• Hand/toe warmers - Chemical warmers as backup heat source.
• Sit pad - Closed-cell foam for insulating breaks.

Footwear & Traction

• ☐ Insulated winter boots (-40°F rated)
• ☐ Gaiters
• ☐ Microspikes
• ☐ Snowshoes (if needed)
• ☐ Crampons (if needed)
• ☐ Wool/synthetic socks + liners

Clothing

• ☐ Wicking base layer (top and bottom)
• ☐ Insulating mid layer
• ☐ Hardshell jacket
• ☐ Hardshell pants
• ☐ Heavy insulating puffy
• ☐ Warm hat
• ☐ Balaclava
• ☐ Insulated gloves
• ☐ Warm mittens (backup)
• ☐ Hand warmers

Navigation & Safety

• ☐ Map and compass
• ☐ GPS device
• ☐ Headlamp + extra batteries
• ☐ Fire starter
• ☐ Emergency bivy
• ☐ First aid kit
• ☐ Whistle
• ☐ Goggles/sunglasses
• ☐ Sunscreen

Food & Water

• ☐ Insulated water bottles (2-3L)
• ☐ High-calorie snacks
• ☐ Emergency food
• ☐ Thermos (optional)

Extras

• ☐ Trekking poles with snow baskets
• ☐ Ice axe (above treeline)
• ☐ Sit pad
• ☐ Backpack (winter-appropriate size, 30-40L)