The Ultimate Winter Gear Packing List

Winter shouldn’t mean adventure stops—it just means you need to prepare for cold weather and the right gear. Whether you’re heading into the backcountry, road-tripping to a national park, or just embracing the cold in your own city, mostly what you wear is the key to staying warm and comfortable with a few extras should do the trick. With minimal, high-performance gear, you can pack less and do more.

Here’s your ultimate winter packing list—tested, trusted, and ready for anything.

Base Layers: The Foundation of Warmth.

A solid layering system starts here. Base layers should keep your body warmth in and wick away moisture to keep you dry. Once you get wet it’s a much tougher battle to stay warm. 

• Merino Wool Baselayer Top & Bottoms – Natural insulation, odor-resistant, and moisture-wicking. Merino keeps you warm without overheating–often labeled temperature regulating. Traveler Tees is the TEREN option here.

• Moisture-Wicking Underwear – Nobody likes being damp in cold weather. Go for merino or synthetic blends. The more synthetic–the more likely to smell so make sure you bring a few extras here.

• Wool Socks – Keep your feet warm and dry—however, once wool gets wet it takes longer to dry so you’ll want an extra pair or two here. We’re working on some socks–leave a comment below on what type of socks you like!

Mid Layers: Insulation That Works.

Mid-layers trap heat and keep you warm without the bulk. Having multiple lightweight mid-layers is my preference instead of a single midweight mid-layer.

• Fleece Jacket – A lightweight fleece adds warmth without weighing you down. Our Daily Driver Fleece has a full zip to let in wind / air if the temps change during the day.

• Insulated Jacket (Synthetic or Down) – Down is lighter, but synthetic insulation keeps you warm even when wet. Our Daily Driver Puffy is a solid choice—water-resistant, packable, and a clean design for any occasion.

Outer Layers: Weather Protection.

This is your shield against snow, wind, and rain. (and fire if you’re anything like our chaotic crew)

• Waterproof & Windproof Shell Jacket – Look for something breathable and packable. Without breathability in a shell–you’ll clam up and eventually that sweat will turn you into an icicle. The Cloudland Shell boasts in breathability.

• Insulated or Shell Pants – Layer over your base layer for added warmth and protection.

• Gaiters (if trekking in deep snow) – Keep the snow out of your boots and your legs dry.

Cold-Weather Accessories.

Don’t let the small things ruin a big adventure.

• Gloves (Liner + Insulated Mitts) – Layering here matters, too. A thin glove liner under an insulated mitt gives you warmth and dexterity.

• Beanie or Balaclava – Keep your head and ears covered—most heat loss happens up top. Remember, heat rises. 

• Neck Gaiter or Buff – Versatile, lightweight, and essential for blocking wind and trapping warmth. Honestly, the buff has got to be one of the most versatile accessories out there for both hot weather and cold weather–I don’t leave home without it. 

• Sunglasses or Goggles – Snow glare is real. Protect your eyes and this gives an added layer of protection from wind when you’re cruising on a bike, board or your own two feets. 

Footwear: Keep Moving, Stay Warm.

Speaking of feet… Your feet are your adventure engines—keep them dry & comfortable.

• Insulated, Waterproof Boots – If your feet freeze, your day is over. The past couple of months on my new Obed gravel bike have taught me this lesson over and over again. 

• Wool or Synthetic Socks (Extra Pairs) – We said it above but we’ll say it again because it’s so important. Wet socks (ew gross) are the enemy—always pack backups.

Extras That Make a Difference.

• Hand & Toe Warmers – Small but mighty for those extra-cold days. I don’t usually have these with me but when a friend offers them to me, they are pretty nice. 

• Lightweight, Packable Blanket – A safety net for unexpected cold snaps.

• Thermos with Hot Drinks – Because warm drinks make everything better. Mhmm, some mulled wine, hot toddy, or… what time is it? I’ve gotta wrap this up and clock out.

• Headlamp with Extra Batteries – Short days mean longer nights—stay prepared. If this isn’t one of the most important pro tips for this winter packing list, idk what is. Hello darkness my old friend. 

Minimal Packing, Maximum Adventure.

Here’s the thing, with the right winter gear, you don’t have to overpack to stay warm. The key? Versatility. Everything we make at TEREN is made to keep you moving from the slopes to the post run brews by the far. Alrighty now–pack smart, stay warm, and embrace the cold because winter is just another amazing excuse to get outside.

What’s your go-to winter adventure essential?

Drop your must-haves in the comments.