Winter in the mountains is harsh and beautiful — silence, snow, and a true sense of the wild. But it is also a season that does not forgive mistakes. Cold temperatures, strong winds, and short days make good preparation a key factor for safety. Here’s how to get ready so that your winter hike becomes an experience, not a challenge.

Jackets – protection and warmth at the right moment

Winter rarely allows for a single “all-purpose” jacket. The most practical solution is a combination of a shell jacket and an insulated down jacket.

The shell jacket is your main outer layer, protecting you from wind, snow, and moisture while moving. The down jacket provides essential warmth during breaks, on ridgelines, or when temperatures drop suddenly. Together, they offer flexibility and security in changing winter conditions.

Layers – thermal control starts from within

A proper layering system is the foundation of winter comfort. The base layer should actively wick moisture away from the body while retaining warmth — merino wool or synthetic fabrics such as Patagonia Capilene and Icebreaker do this reliably.

A good practice is to carry a spare base layer in a dry bag. Changing it during a longer break or before descent helps prevent rapid heat loss. Above it comes the mid-layer — a fleece or lightly insulated jacket that regulates body temperature while moving.

Footwear and socks – stability above all

In winter, trails are slippery and uneven, so footwear must be stable, well insulated, and equipped with a solid sole. Models by Scarpa are designed specifically for these conditions.

Merino wool socks, such as those from Point6, help retain warmth, manage moisture, and reduce the risk of frostbite and blisters.

Backpack – organization for cold conditions

Winter means carrying more gear. For day hikes, 25–35 liters is a sensible minimum. Brands like Gregory and Patagonia offer packs with comfortable back systems and smart organization.

Dry bags for spare clothing and your first-aid kit are essential, while external attachment points for trekking poles or crampons are a major advantage on winter routes.

Headlamp – a necessity, not a backup

Short winter days make a headlamp part of your essential gear. For winter conditions, at least 300–400 lumens are recommended. Reliable models are offered by Black Diamond, Silva, and Lupine.

Always carry a spare battery — cold temperatures significantly reduce battery life.

Food and hydration – fuel for winter travel

In cold conditions, the body burns more energy. Freeze-dried meals from Lyofood are lightweight, nutritious, and well suited for winter use.

For movement on the trail, add energy gels and bars from Chimpanzee, which provide quick energy and essential minerals. A thermos with a hot drink and electrolytes helps maintain hydration, even when you don’t feel thirsty.

Navigation and safety – the details that matter

A GPS device, offline maps on your phone, or a paper map are essential in winter. In your first-aid kit, include a thermal blanket, elastic bandage, adhesive plasters, and painkillers.

A whistle, multitool, waterproof phone pouch, as well as spare gloves and a hat, are often overlooked but can prove crucial in a critical situation.

Final thoughts

Winter in the mountains is a season for those who are well prepared. With the right gear and smart decisions, snow and cold become part of the adventure rather than a risk.

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