After living in New York City for 7 winters, trekking through the snow for meals and errands then moving to Minneapolis 5 years ago, I feel like somewhat of a snow gear expert. The winters here in Minnesota are long, filled with snow and subzero temps for months on end but hibernation isn’t an option. In fact, Minnesota is often recognized as one of the healthiest states in the country and I can tell you part of the reasoning has got to be that people are out doors constantly even in the winter, running (not me!), snowshoeing and cross country skiing, ice skating, kite surfing and just enjoying the outdoors. I’ve got two little kids so most of my outdoor time (of which there is plenty) is spent on snowy treks, chasing my kids down the sidewalk, and building many a snowman. As a newly self proclaimed winter gear expert, I wanted to share the brands and styles of the coats and boots that I (+ my husband) have grown to love and trust in the event you’ve got a cold weather trip planned this winter!
Arcteryx Patera Parka (women’s): (far left image) This coat is chic, warm, water and wind proof while still being breathable. It has lots of pockets and is super comfortable. Plus, it comes is a few color ways so you can pick your vibe. This is my go-to all winter long; I keep it zipped on the really cold days and leave it open when its less frigid.
Canada Goose (men’s) Langford Parka Heritage: (middle image) This coat is insanely warm, like you really can’t wear more than a t-shirt underneath without becoming sweaty. So, it’s perfect for this absolutely freezing days where the temps will be well below freezing. Yes, it’s an investment but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny.
Askov Finlayson (men’s) Winter Parka: (far right image) When it’s not sub zero, this is what my husband reached for. Technically, it’s made to keep you warm when its -20 of above. It’s comfortable, cute and super durable. It’s made with 100% recycled featherless material Plus, this Minnesota company is the world’s first climate positive outerwear brand.
Sorel Boots: (far left image)You really can’t beat this brand for a cold weather boot. No matter the style, they’re warm and comfortable, often times super cute, and they last forever. My favorite style is the Kinetic Conquest Boot!
Uggs: (middle image) Ok stop, don’t hate on Uggs. They’re warm, have traction on slippery streets and are easy to get on and off which I count as important when you’re super bundled up.
Huckberry: (specifically the men’s All-Weather Duck boots) (far right image) My husbands wears pretty much only these boots during the winter. They’re perfect for fresh snowfall, warmer slushy days, and just plain cold excursions. The website says these boots “laugh in the face of foul weather” and we concur.
gloves + Hats
This category is tricky because the ‘accessories’ I comes back to time after time aren’t necessarily outwear brands. My favorite beanie is from Nordstrom, had a fun poof on top and is fleece lined (that’s the important warmth part). My favorite mittens are fleece lined from Anthropolie and for gloves, I use some Northface tech gloves, but still have to take one off to use my phone if I’m being honest.
Pants
Usually, I’m just in jeans unless we’re playing in the snow then I toss on a pair of snow pants or bibs. But there are always a few days where the cold is just too bitter for jeans but I don’t need snow pants and those are the days I reach for my fleece lined tights. My favorite are from Athleta!
