The Scandinavians have a saying: There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes.
With winter rolling around again, it’s time to check in on the latest and greatest in the world of winter gadgets, gear, and accessories. Whether it’s a little something to spoil yourself or a gift for a loved one, there’s something for everyone on this list.
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We’ll start with the 6 most essential winter accessories, along with the best options for each. Then we’ll hit you with a list of the latest and greatest in winter gadgets and other gear:
1. DOWN WINTER JACKETS
2. WINTER BOOTS
3. COMFORTABLE SOCKS
4. WARM GLOVES
5. WINTER HATS & BEANIES
6. BASE LAYER
CLICK HERE FOR THE LIST OF LATEST AND GREATEST WINTER GADGETS
1. Dump the Fleece and Grab a Down Winter Jacket
When the weather turns cold, sometimes the choice between stylish and warm isn’t easy. Walking around the city in a big ski coat leaves you looking like a dud. And thin fleeces can leave you cold and uncomfortable.
Down winter jackets have none of those problems. With tons of stylish and lightweight versions, down jackets are perfect for city life and adventures in nature. They’re also pound-for-pound some of the warmest jackets on the market.
Natural down has better insulation properties and is warmer than the same amount of synthetic down, but natural down fails miserably when wet. So if you’re looking for the lightest option, go for natural down. But if you will be in wet conditions regularly, better to get a synthetic down winter jacket. And consider a waterproof shell – down jackets are not ideal raincoats regardless of the insulation material.
Either way, you’re not going to go wrong by adding a down winter jacket to your wardrobe.
Here’s a selection of the top down winter jackets (interested in the newest HEATED winter jackets?):
 | Outdoor Research Transcendent Down Jacket | All-natural, responsibly-sourced down | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Patagonia Down Sweater | 100% recycled ripstop shell and lining fabric, insulated with 800-fill natural down | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hooded Jacket | Using both Coreloft synthetic down and 850 natural down | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | The North Face Thermoball Full Zip Winter Jacket | WindWall™ fabric to reduce the effects of wind chill and synthetic-down Termoball insulation | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
Outdoor Research Transcendent Down Winter Jacket
Featuring all-natural, responsibly-sourced down, Outdoor Research’s down winter jackets are top of the line and a great example of what to expect with down jackets. Comfortable, warm in very cold temps, and a reliable product made with high standards.
Can’t go wrong supporting a company who believes life gets better the minute we step out the door on a new adventure. Plus, every Outdoor Research product comes with their Infinity Guarantee: “Outdoor Research® gear is guaranteed to perform throughout the lifetime of the product.” No better way to stand behind your product.
Pros: Great Fit, Infinity Guarantee, Adjustable Hood
Cons: Sizing Runs Small
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Patagonia Down Sweater Winter Jacket
100% recycled ripstop shell and lining fabric, insulated with 800-fill natural down combine to create a winter jacket that’s been tried and trusted for years. Elastic wristbands trap the heat inside your jacket and crank up the heat when needed most.
Patagonia is dedicated to fair labor practices and fair working conditions. So put your money where your mouth is and buy from a company that is trying hard to make this world a pleasant place for all.
Pros: Recycled Materials, Elastic Cuffs, Classic Winter Jacket
Cons: Reports of Shell Material Being Delicate
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hooded Winter Jacket
Using both Coreloft synthetic down and 850 natural down, this jacket has the perfect combination of materials. Synthetic down in areas that are prone to getting wet, and natural down in the areas which usually stay dry. Ultimate warmth to weight ratio on this winter jacket.
Arc’teryx prides itself on superior craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Responsible manufacturing and community engagement are at the heart of this company’s mission and results in excellent products you can be happy buying.
Pros: Combines Synthetic and Natural Downs, Superior Craftsmanship, Stylish
Cons: Some Say Down Leaks Rapidly
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
The North Face Thermoball Full Zip Winter Jacket
Constructed using WindWall™ fabric to greatly reduce the effects of wind chill and synthetic down Termoball insulation to provide heat even when wet in this winter jacket.
The North Face’s mission has been constant since 1966: “Provide the best gear for our athletes and the modern-day explorer, support the preservation of the outdoors, and inspire a global movement of exploration.”
Pros: Effective Against Windy Conditions, Synthetic Retains Heat Even When Wet
Cons: Reports of Poor Construction Quality
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
2. Keep Your Feet Warm with the Best Winter Boots
Often overlooked, footwear is one of the most important things to staying warm in the winter. Even if you might try, you can’t always avoid walking in a bit of snow. Does walking around in soggy shoes with soaking-wet feet sound like a good idea? Of course not.
So rather than be caught with cold, wet feet, do yourself a favor and get some new winter boots. No, they don’t have to be like your dad’s winter boots from L.L. Bean (although those are still pretty awesome, to be honest).
There are tons of great boots out there. From the best in leather to lightweight ones using the latest technology.
Here’s a selection of the best winter boots for this year:
 | Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger 6″ Vibram Boot | Enduring comfort and hard-wearing durability | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Clarks Bushacre 2 Chukka Boot | Simple and timeless style | AMAZON |
 | Sorel Cheyanne II Snow Boot | Waterproof rubber lower | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Blundstone 500 Series Boots | Tough and stylish winter boot | AMAZON REI |
Red Wing Heritage Men’s Iron Ranger 6″ Vibram Boot
A heavy-duty work boot built for enduring comfort and hard-wearing durability. Triple-stitched and made from 100% leather, Red Wings are built to last. The Iron Ranger gets its name from the northern Minnesota iron miners, North America’s largest producer of iron ore. It will withstand the most brutal conditions and makes a great winter boot.
Pros: Built to Last, Can be Re-soled, Reputation for Comfort
Cons: Long Break-in Period
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Clarks Men’s Bushacre 2 Chukka Boot
Designed with simplicity and timeless style, Clark boots are a great staple to any winter wardrobe. They are lightweight and loved by hoards of fans, with plenty of fashion-forward customers showing off the classic Clark design for this winter boot.
Pros: Awesome Classic Design, Lightweight
Cons: Not the Warmest Winter Boot
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Sorel Men’s Cheyanne II Snow Boot
If you need some serious winter snow boots to get through your day, then check out the classically-styled Sorel Snow Boot. A seam-sealed waterproof leather upper attaches to a waterproof rubber lower to form a winter snow boot which will keep your toes dry in the worst of conditions.
Pros: Waterproof Design, Classic Snow Boot
Cons: Rubber Sole Lacks Comfort
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Blundstone 500 Series Boots
With 50 years of history, these boots have been proven useful by farmers, builders, and anyone else who needed footwear that can handle a hard day’s work. A great balance between tough winter boot and stylish everyday shoes.
Pros: Stylish Look, Proven Durability
Cons: Lace-less Design Somewhat Difficult to Put On
3. Socks Make a Giant Difference
It would be a bit ridiculous to mention boots without talking about socks. If you stuff a pair of crappy, cotton socks into the best winter boots, you’re still likely to get cold toes.
Quality socks are awesome. They feel better, keep you warmer, are more comfortable, and can last much longer than cheap ones. Have a sock drawer full of 20 pairs of socks you don’t like?
Then stop buying those and start a small collection of incredible winter socks. You won’t regret it.
 | Darn Tough Hunter Over The Calf Extra Cushion Sock | Ethically-sourced Merino wool | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks | Maximum Durability and Comfort | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Eurosocks Superlite Ski Socks | Affordable, thin winter socks | AMAZON |
 | REI Co-op Merino Wool Heavyweight Crew Socks | Affordable heavyweight winter sock option | REI |
Darn Tough Hunter Over The Calf Extra Cushion Sock
This Vermont-based (and manufactured) company stands behind everything with a lifetime guarantee. Not bad for a sock company. Made using ethically-sourced Merino wool, the winter socks will blow your mind. More choices than you can imagine too, so make sure to check out their full lineup to see what fits your needs the best.
Pros: Extra Cushion for Long Days, Incredible Guarantee
Cons: Hard to Choose Between All Versions
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks
As the first outdoor company to make performance Merino wool ski socks, you can’t go wrong with anything from Smartwool, especially their winter socks. This pair of light-cushion socks are great for everyday use to keep your feet comfortable, warm, and dry during the day. This is an essential winter accessory.
Pros: Maximum Durability and Comfort, Tried and True Brand
Cons: Hard to Say – Very Few Complaints
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Eurosocks Superlite Ski Socks
Some of the most affordable winter socks on the market. Designed to be super light and thin, they should cram into even the tightest ski boots.
Pros: Affordable, Thin
Cons: You Get What You Pay For
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
REI Co-op Merino Wool Heavyweight Crew Socks
Another extremely affordable winter sock option from one of the best outdoor companies around.
Pros: Affordable, Made by Reputable Co-Op
Cons: Construction Issues Noted by Some
CHECK PRICE: REI
4. Don’t Forget About Your Fingers
The only thing worse than wet feet is freezing fingers. Make sure you stop that from happening before you even step out of your door.
I love having two main pairs of winter gloves. First, are lightweight synthetic winter gloves that I use when it isn’t that cold or when exercising. Second are a good pair of leather winter gloves that can be used in the coldest conditions, including while skiing or snowboarding.
Best of all, tons of gloves include material that will allow you to use your phone or other touchscreen devices without taking them off! Or you could channel your inner rebel and bring back the Breakfast Club vibes with some fingerless ones.
Some of the best gloves out there are (click HERE for heated winter gloves):
 | The North Face Etip Glove | Touchscreen Sensitive Fingertips | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Öjbro Swedish-Made 100% Merino Wool Suede Touch Gloves | Extra thick and warm gloves | AMAZON |
 | REI Co-op Guide Insulated Gloves | Double-stitched reinforced leather palms | REI |
 | Mountain Hardwear High Exposure GORE-TEX Gloves | Big mountain gloves | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
The North Face Etip Glove
Articulated patterning and 4-way stretch allow for natural use of hands without restriction in this winter glove. North Face etip technology lets you use your touchscreen to handle daily life without compromising your comfort. Never take off your gloves to answer your phone or type a message again!
Pros: Touchscreen Sensitive Fingertips, Created with Comfort
Cons: Not the Warmest Winter Gloves
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Öjbro Swedish-Made 100% Merino Wool Suede Touch Gloves
These incredibly soft and warm winter gloves come with 100% Merino wool to keep you warm and dry. Extra thick gloves are ready to tackle the coldest temps without the need for bulky materials.
Pros: Incredibly Soft and Comfortable, Withstands Very Cold Temperatures
Cons: Not Waterproof
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
REI Co-op Guide Insulated Gloves
These are awesome gloves that I love and use for snowboarding as well as driving.
They keep your wrists warm while letting your jacket comfortably slip over these classic winter gloves. The leather can be reworked with waterproofing material, and these puppies will just get better with time. Double-stitched reinforced leather palms are tough enough for everyday use. Integrated soft suede nose-wipe patch. Incredible gloves.
Pros: Great balance of Warmth and Comfort, Solid Value
Cons: Not Touchscreen Compatible
CHECK PRICE: REI
Mountain Hardwear High Exposure GORE-TEX Gloves
Looking for something to handle your toughest ski days, without breaking the bank? Mountain Hardwear offers this impressive combination of leather, nylon, and Gore-Tex to keep your hands warm and toasty in these winter gloves. Advanced curve design for the ultimate comfort and flexibility.
Pros: Cover Jacket Cuffs, Gore-Tex Technology
Cons: Bulky Gloves Not Meant for City Use
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
5. Winter Hats, Beanies, and Helmets
Ever hear that you can lose up to 80% of your body heat through your head?! Well, that’s false. But if you think you shouldn’t have your head covered in cold weather, you’re sorely mistaken.
Keep that noggin warm and stay in style with this year’s best winter hats and winter beanies. Or keep it protected on the slopes with the ultimate skiing helmet.
 | Patagonia Recycled Wool Earflap Cap | Ear Coverage | REI |
 | Comhats Earflap Hat | Cheaper ear coverage | AMAZON |
 | QUEENFUR Women Knit Slouchy Beanie Chunky Baggy Hat | Unique design | AMAZON |
 | Smith Optics 2019 Vantage MIPS Adult Snowboarding Helmet | One of the best helmets on the market | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Rotibox Bluetooth Beanie Hat | Bluetooth connectivity | AMAZON |
 | Bluetooth Winter Beanie with Ponytail Hole | Ability to pull ponytail through top of hat | AMAZON |
Patagonia Recycled Wool Earflap Cap
Recycled wool comes together to create a sweet little winter hat that will keep you nice and toasty. The earflaps drop down to cover your ears. Comfortable and quirky.
Pros: Ear Coverage, Baseball Cap Style
Cons: Not the Warmest Hat
CEHCK PRICE: REI
Comhats Earflap Winter Hat
A cheaper option similar to the Patagonia winter hat. But honestly, just get the Patagonia if you can. They’re an awesome company to support.
Pros: Same as Patagonia Earflap, Cheaper
Cons: Same as Patagonia Earflap
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
QUEENFUR Women Knit Slouchy Beanie Chunky Baggy Hat
Want to have the warmest and softest winter beanie around while looking great? This is the one for you. Chunky and cute design for a great winter hat. And don’t be worried about the animals – this is not real fur.
Pros: Beautiful Design, Warm
Cons: Too Loose for Some Activities
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Smith Optics 2019 Vantage MIPS Adult Snowboarding Helmet
Not sure where to start with shopping for a helmet? Start and stop shopping right here. This helmet is a perfect choice for tons of people. It was built for the hardcore and encompasses some incredible technology from Smith Optics, including a Boa 360 fit system and am Aerocore design to keep the air flowing. It’s comfortable and can take anything you throw at it.
You won’t go wrong getting this snowboarding helmet.
Pros: Great Way to Keep Your Brain Safe, One of the Best Winter Helmets on the Market
Cons: Costs Money
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Rotibox Bluetooth Beanie Hat
This simple winter beanie hides two headphones and a Bluetooth receiver! Keep warm while listening to music or answering phone calls. What a unique winter accessory!
Pros: Bluetooth, Simple Design, Affordable
Cons: Reviews Mention Quality Issues
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Bluetooth Winter Beanie with Ponytail Hole
Not only does this winter beanie include Bluetooth technology to keep you connected, it also has a hole on the top of the hat so that you can pull a ponytail through it! Innovative!
Pros: Bluetooth, Ponytail Hole
Cons: Hole Releases Warmth
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
6. Stepping Things Up: Base Layer
Okay, so this isn’t just a routine trip to the store or commute to the office. You’re going to venture out and explore in the cold. Maybe it’s a full day of sightseeing in freezing temperatures or perhaps you’re hitting the slopes.
In either case, a base layer should not be overlooked. From the classic “long johns” to the newest in base layer technology (seriously), here is a list with something for everyone.
 | Smartwool Intraknit Base Layer | Sophisticated 3D-knit articulation | REI |
 | Smartwool Base Layer Top – Merino 250 | Merino wool | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Carhartt Base Force Lightweight Crew | Durable and dependable | AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW |
 | Duofold Mid-Weight Wicking Thermal Pant | Affordable | AMAZON |
Smartwool Intraknit Base Layer
With yet another appearance on this list, Smartwool is pushing the horizon with base layer technology. Using a sophisticated 3D-knit articulation, these premium base layers have unmatched fit and comfort. Targeted knit and insulation keeps you warm and dry.
Pros: Advanced Fit and Construction, Lightweight and Warm
Cons: Expensive
CHECK PRICE: REI
Smartwool Base Layer Top – Merino 250
If pushing the new frontier is pushing your boundaries a little too far, then stick to the Smartwool Merino base layers. This durable, soft material will keep every inch of your skin happy and warm. And you can save a few bucks – although they’re still a pretty decent investment.
Pros: 100% Merino Wool, Comfortable Fit & Durable
Cons: Very Few Complaints
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Carhartt Base Force Lightweight Crew
For that classic waffle knit, reach for the Carhartt Force base layers. A very reasonably priced option built by a company with a reputation for durability and quality construction.
Pros: Great Value, 100% Polyester
Cons: Not the Most Innovative
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Duofold Mid-Weight Wicking Thermal Pant
If you’re on a tight budget, the Duofold option might work in a pinch. It is ridiculously cheap and uses double-layer to provide increased insulation.
Pros: Very Cheap, Double Layer
Cons: You Get What You Pay For
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
LATEST AND GREATEST IN WINTER GADGETS AND GEAR
Ready for an intense list of the newest winter technology and winter gear?! Let’s do this!
HeatTrak Heated Snow Melting Walkway
Have an icy patch or a walkway that constantly needs scraping away? Plop down some of these aweomse winter gadgets from HeatTrak – like their melting walkway – and forget about it. They have options for stairs too!
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Snowcookie Ski Monitor System
Want to see how you did on the slopes today? No – I mean REALLY see how you did? This is for you. This system incorporates 3 sensors (2 on the skis and 1 body) to track your every movement, measuring your performance and technique. High tech winter gear for ski performance.
CHECK PRICE: SNOWCOOKIESPORTS.COM
Garmin Fenix 5 Series Ski Watch
If you’d rather just deal with one sensor, this multi-sport GPS watch is built for fitness, adventure, and style. Great little winter gadget. Keep a close eye on your health and performance by throwing this on your wrist before heading out your door.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
GoPro MAX
Already have a GoPro? I can almost guarantee it’s not like this one and you need to check this out. This is the ultimate winter gadget for getting exceptional footage. The MAX includes a dual-lens 360 camera, single-lens HERO camera, a front-facing screen, and shotgun-mic performance. Along with the HyperSmooth stabilization and GoPro’s rugged/waterproof design, this is the ultimate adventure and winter camera.
GoPro Hero8
If the 360 cameras aren’t necessary to you, you should think again (you can REFRAME footage and photos after you shoot them! Come on!)… But if you’ve thought it over again and still don’t want them, then the GoPro Hero8 is the next best thing. With improved HyperSmooth 2.0 and TimeWarp 2.0, your footage can look professional without trying. A great winter gadget gift idea.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Backcountry Access Tracker3 Avalanche Beacon
As one of the smallest and best transceivers on the market, the Backcountry Access Tracker3 can literally be a lifesaver. If you’re venturing into the backcountry this season, protect yourself with this ultimate winter gadget safety essential.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
PHOOZY Apollo Plus Insulated Phone Pouch
Cold temperatures cause phones and batteries to fail. This little piece of winter gear – PHOOZY’s insulated phone pouch – will protect your phone while shredding in the freezing temperatures. Bonus: You can also use this winter accessory during extreme heat!
ORORO Soft Shell Heated Winter Jacket
With three heat zones that can run for up to 10 hours, this heated winter jacket by Ororo is going to blow your mind. It’s no longer about the thickness or fill of the jacket, it’s now about keeping it charged. Maybe someday they’ll integrate solar panels too! A new piece of winter technology that will increase your comfort.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
DEWALT DCHJ060A Heated Soft Shell Winter Jacket
This is a top choice for heated winter jackets on the job site, but also a very solid choice for everyone. Uses the widely-available DeWalt batteries. Probably not the best for a ski day, but could be the perfect winter gear for a cold outing in the city or on the job.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
DCI Hidden Flask Mittens
Maybe a great gag gift. Maybe a stealth way to bring 4 oz of your favorite spirit along for the ride. Whatever the case, these mittens with a hidden flask built inside are some winter gear to liven up your day!
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
FlaskScarf Jersey Infinity Novelty Flask Scarf
Yeah, going for another hidden flask with this winter accessory. Is a flask inside of the scarf better for you? Plus this one is 8 ounces! Just don’t try to sneak through a metal detector with it on.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Zippo Refillable Hand Warmer
Would you like to bring a tiny furnace with you on your cold adventure?! Then Zippo’s refillable hand warmer is for you. This winter accessory provides up to 12 hours of heat, putting frostbite out of your mind.
Snowdear Heated Mittens
These heated winter mittens have a pair of lithium-ion rechargeable 7.4V 2200mAh batteries and integrated heating elements to provide up to 6.5 hours of hand warmth! Not a bad piece of winter gear to have.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Hotronic Footwarmer S4
If your toes freeze during cold days, then check this winter gear out. After attaching the external battery pack to the outside of your boot (presumably ski or snowboard boots), you connect to an internal footbed that radiates heat to your sole.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Thermacell Heated Insole Foot Warmer
This rechargeable insole provides up to 5 hours of heat directly to the bottom of your feet. This winter accessory is more reasonably priced than the Hotronic option, but not as reliable of a product.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
PEET Electric Shoe and Boot Dryer
This ultra-safe boot dryer can make the difference between “ooooo” and “ohhh no!” Never put your foot into a cold, wet boot again with this winter accessory around. Convection technology keeps slightly warmed air circulating through your shoes and boots, drying them off in no time.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Abom ONE Heated Anti-Fog Snow Goggles
Pushing the latest in goggle technology, this pair of winter goggles from Abom features a heated lense to keep the fog away. Make sure you can see the path with this winter gadget.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Smith Optics I/O MAG Snow Goggles
The Smith MAG lens change system uses magnets to make changing lenses in snowboarding goggles easier and more secure than ever. Plus their stylish design will keep you looking good on the slopes. Tons of different lens and frame colors to choose from in this awesome piece of winter gear.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON REI MOOSEJAW
Rough Rack 3-6 Ski & Snowboard Rack
Keep all of your precious winter accessories and gear organized and out of the way with this wall-mounted ski and snowboard rack. No problems holding everything you ride.
CHECK PRICE: AMAZON
Winter Gadgets, Gear, and Accessories Summary
Staying warm in the winter is not done by accident. Buy the proper winter accessories and be prepared for the cold. Start with a stylish down winter jacket. Keep your toes warm and dry with awesome winter boots and sock. Don’t forget about your fingers and make sure to keep them wrapped up in some winter gloves. Top it off with a stylish winter hat and you’re good to go. Unless you’re really getting cold, throw on that base layer.
What else do you use to stay warm in the winter? Have anything you use daily to keep the cold out? Leave a comment below to share!
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