The Head To Toe Guide on Keeping Warm in the Winter!
Freezing temperatures can make or break your outdoor adventures, whether you’re winter camping, hiking, or tackling survival scenarios, or just keeping warm in winter in general. In this video, I break down the common mistakes that keep you cold in the winter and How to Fix Them; using the right gear and techniques for every layer. Stop making common mistakes like wearing the wrong socks, sweating through your layers, or buying boots that freeze your toes.
LINKS TO RECOMMENDED GEAR CAN BE FOUND IN THE COMMENT BOX BELOW:
Layer by Layer Breakdown
🌡 Feet:
Why merino wool socks are essential for insulation and moisture control.
The best way to use liner socks to prevent sweaty feet.
How to choose the best winter boots for warmth and wiggle room (hint: size up!).
Surprising tips like using antiperspirant on your feet to prevent sweating.
👕 Base Layers:
Why a mesh baselayer is the ultimate choice for moisture wicking.
Understanding GSM and why a lightweight 150 GSM baselayer outperforms thicker options during activity.
The key benefits of synthetic vs merino wool base layers.
How to layer properly to manage sweat and prevent getting cold.
🧥 Mid Layers:
The best mid-layer for winter activities and how to pack for versatility.
Why fleece vests are ideal for maintaining warmth without overheating.
Avoiding bulky options and focusing on breathable mid-layer fabrics.
🛡 Shell Layers:
The truth about Gore-Tex breathability and when to use it for optimal performance.
Why soft shell jackets can be better than hard shells for consistent activity.
Must-have features like armpit zippers, side vents, and full-length pant zippers.
🧤 Gloves vs Mitts:
Why mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves and how to choose the best pair.
The benefits of using liner gloves under mittens for dexterity and comfort.
Game-changing tricks like using surgical gloves as an inner layer for wet or snowy conditions.
🧣 Neck and Head:
How a merino wool toque outperforms acrylic or cotton hats in wet conditions.
The versatility of neck gaiters for protecting against wind and preventing heat loss.
When to avoid covering your mouth to prevent freezing condensation.
💡 More Game-Changing Tips:
How to layer for snowshoeing, hiking, or winter camping.
The ultimate trick to stay warm even when you sweat—layer swapping and ventilation.
Affordable gear options from military surplus and thrift stores that don’t sacrifice performance.
💡 Related Videos from The Bear Essentials:
*Cold Feet? Fix It with These Expert Tips:*
https://youtu.be/egWaJQFnMJ4?si=uw67t7ayv9_kXrOV
*Why the Fishnet Baselayer Works Wonders in Winter:*
https://youtu.be/-5UWkorZlvY?si=NT03uQuJ89O8XBKk
*What to Do if you FALL THROUGH ICE:*
https://youtu.be/PKeP4LHR0z8?si=ygz8KnGYXjo47VYE
CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro
0:30 Strategy Behind Staying Warm in the Winter
1:00 Mistake 1: Wearing Thick Socks at the Wrong Time
2:31 Mistake 2: Boots That Are Too Tight
3:08 Bonus Tip: Using Antiperspirant on Your Feet to Prevent Sweating
3:47 Mistake 3: Wearing Cotton Underwear in the Cold
4:45 Mistake 4: Thinking Thicker Baselayers Are Always Better
5:40 Bonus Tip: Changing Layers When Needed
6:38 Mistake 5: Failing to Change Layers When Needed
7:20 Mistake 6: Wearing a Midlayer During High-Activity States
8:00 Bonus Tip: Why a Vest is the Perfect Midlayer Option
8:29 Mistake 7: Overestimating the Effectiveness of Shell Layers
9:10 Bonus Tip: Choosing a Soft Shell vs Hard Shell for Better Breathability
9:50 Bonus Tip: Shell Pants with Side Zippers for Easy On/Off in Snow
10:34 Mistake 8: Believing Big Gloves Are Warmer Than Mittens
11:10 Bonus Tip: Use Mittens with Removable Liners for Versatility
11:40 Bonus Tip: Add Handwarmers to Mittens for Extra Warmth
11:55 Bonus Tip: Using Surgical Gloves Under Mittens for Wet Conditions
12:05 Mistake 9: Forgetting Neck Protection in Cold Weather
12:50 Bonus Tip: Preventing Frozen Condensation on Neck Gaiters
13:14 Mistake 10: Choosing the Wrong Headwear for Cold Conditions
14:00 Bonus Tip: Why Merino Wool Hats Are Ideal for Winter
14:30 Where to Find Affordable Winter Gear
15:02 Conclusion: Recap of Mistakes and Key Winter Survival Tips