When it comes to winter, the EatingWell staff are no strangers to blisteringly cold temperatures. After all, half of the team is based in Vermont! And, if we’re not in Vermont, the majority of us reside in the Northeast, from Philadelphia to New York City. Suffice it to say we know how to thrive in the cold. Just because it’s below 10°F doesn’t mean we won’t get out and walk—we just bundle up with comfortable leggings from Athleta, warming socks from Dark Tough and Mons Royale neckwarmers.
I asked my colleagues to share the cold-weather gear they love so dearly that they own multiples of or want to buy a second. Read on to shop our top picks from Smartwool, Bombas, Ugg and more.
Best Winter Fitness and Walking Gear Overall
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Socks
Darn Tough
“I hike with my dogs three to four times a week in the woods behind my house. Warm socks are key! I swear by Darn Tough midweight socks. They’re super breathable and keep my feet toasty but not too hot in the winter. I have so many pairs.” — Carolyn Malcoun, editorial director
Athleta Rainier High Rise Reflective Print Legging
Athleta
“I have five pairs of Athleta fleece-lined leggings, and they are my go-to for dog walks and errands during the winter. I’m only seeing a couple of sizes available, so the brand might be discontinuing them. This is another warm option from the brand that’s worth a try.” — Megan Ginsberg, senior editor
Smartwool Liner Gloves
REI
“I have two pairs of these Smartwool gloves. They are thin, but still keep your hands warm enough. You don’t have to take them off to use your phone, so you can easily snap some photos while out on walks or respond to messages if you need to.” — Megan Ginsberg
Free People Winter Chill Blanket Scarf
Free People
“I have five of these scarves—a stat I am equally as embarrassed of as I am proud. Like a true blanket for your neck (hence the name), this scarf is big enough to keep me warm for hours. I can even wrap it into a hood in a pinch. I chuck it on for winter walks and evening outings because it’s both cute and functional.” — Kristin Montemarano, editor
Mons Royale Daily Dose Merino Neckwarmer
Backcountry
“When I’m getting ready for a day at the mountain or a run in the cold, I never leave home without my Mons Royale neck warmer. I love merino wool for my active first layer as it’s soft on my skin and keeps me warm. Merino wool also has natural antibacterial properties, so it doesn’t get stinky.” — Penelope Wall, assistant general manager
Bombas Originals Ankle Socks
Amazon
“One thing that is worth the splurge is high-quality socks that will last forever, and Bombas are just that. They’re thick, comfortable and worth the price tag—I promise!” — Dani DeAngelis, associate news and trending editor
Lanolips 101 Ointment
Amazon
“Dry lips and cracked hands can and will ruin what could have been a peaceful walk. To alleviate that, I always have ointment on hand like this one from Lanolips. Its thick, moisturizing texture creates a barrier that keeps moisture locked in.” — Kristin Montemarano
SmartWool Unisex-Adult Popcorn Cable Reversible Beanie
Amazon
“I just gifted my boyfriend’s mom a Smartwool beanie and socks for Christmas, and they were immediately used for the recent snowstorm with high praise. I may have to buy a set for myself!” — Dani DeAngelis
Ugg Water-Resistant Earmuffs
Amazon
“My mom bought me Ugg earmuffs for Christmas, and I can’t believe I’ve gone so long without them! To me, earmuffs were an item of the past—something I would wear as a kid. Not anymore! I love that they keep my ears warm, as mine are incredibly sensitive, but they don’t flatten or ruin my hair like a beanie. My ears are also sensitive to pressure, so even things like over-ear headphones can really hurt after a short time. These are soft as a cloud and never hurt. I wish I had multiples of them to put in my coat pocket, car and bag!” — Kristin Montemarano
Aritizia Golden the Powder Parka Coldstop
Aritzia
“I need to pick and choose when to wear this jacket because it’s so warm, I could easily start sweating in 20°F weather. I have had this coat for nearly a decade, and it’s still holding up well after many seasons. Between the thick, long design and the added details like the fuzzy hood and lined sleeves, this is a jacket I can wear when shoveling snow or walking for miles during the winter. It’s an investment, but if I could, I’d buy multiple to ensure I always had one on hand.” — Kristin Montemarano
