2025 Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Winter Hiking Clothes for Women in the Pacific Northwest

Hiking might be a beloved Pacific Northwest pastime, but many overlook just how stunning our trails become in winter.

Imagine stepping into a snow-dusted forest, where each branch sparkles under the low winter sun, and animal tracks reveal the hidden life of the woods that often goes unnoticed in warmer months. Winter transforms the landscape, offering breathtaking views of frozen waterfalls, shimmering icicles, and delicate needle ice lining the trails.

To make the most of these beautiful sights, you’ll need the right gear. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best winter hiking clothes to keep you warm, comfortable, and ready to explore in the cold season.

Winter Hiking Clothes

To help you prepare, I am sharing all of my recommended clothing, shoes, and accessories. It is important to note that these are based on my personal preferences. For example, I know that if I am hiking a trail with significant elevation gain then I will likely warm up quickly. Because of this, I am confident that I won’t need a layer that is, say, as heavy as a parka.

Figuring out what works for you as a winter hiker will likely take some trial and error. But hey, REI has a generous return policy haha!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you purchase through my links (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support, and happy adventures!!

1. Base Layer

First things first, let’s talk about what to wear as your base layer (the layer most directly touching your skin). Like any physical activity, winter hiking is the most enjoyable when you don’t feel too sweaty. That’s why always go for a lightweight, breathable layer.

Since I know that I run warm, I actually wear the same base layers year-round. In most cases, this means I reach for my trusty moisture-wicking Sahara Sun Hoodie — which has thumbholes and a hood. (Great for sun protection in the summer and a little extra warmth in the winter).

If you’re someone who likes to be toasty warm (or are planning on hiking in extremely cold temperatures) consider a top made of merino wool.

Whichever you choose, you will hear many people say not to wear cotton — as the sweat will not dry and can actually make you colder.

2. Mid Layer

Next, think about what jackets you tend to reach for on dry, mild days during fall or spring. This is a good indicator of a mid layer.

Probably the most popular material is fleece. Overall, you’ll want to pick a mid layer that is warm, but also not too thick that it is uncomfortable to add layers on top of. Because, as you may have guessed, this layer does not offer protection against wind or precipitation.

3. Insulating Layer for Warmth

If you’re wondering where puffer jackets come into the picture, it is here! Even if you think that you may not need it, it’s always a smart to pack an extra layer of warmth in your backpack.

It could come in handy eating a snack at the summit, when the wind picks up, or for descents back down the trail.

While I love the trendy longer length jackets, I find that they are not the most practical winter hiking clothes because they can inhibit movement as well as provide too much warmth during exercise.

4. Shell Layer Winter Hiking Clothes

As the final layer on your chest, the outer layer is very important because it offers the most protection from the elements. Personally, I find it worthwhile to invest in high quality outer layers / rain jackets when possible so that they not only do the job, but also last for years.

Bestie Tip: Take proper care of your waterproof layers by washing them with 5. Pants

Similar to my top base layer, my pants tend not to vary much throughout the year. I am a leggings girlie, and have never had an issue with my legs getting cold.

That being said, if you find that your regular leggings aren’t providing enough warmth you could opt for a merino wool base layer with loose-fitting hiking pants over the top. This way, you get a water-resistant layer on top and some bonus protection.

6. Footwear to Wear With Winter Hiking Clothes

Winter Hiking Boots

Since the cold season also means the wet season, I recommend pairing waterproof boots with your winter hiking clothes. Again if you have a pair that you love to wear during summer, they should work just fine for winter too. These are my two tried and tested pair!! The KEEN ones are a little more budget friendly, and they were actually the first hiking boots I ever owned.

Nowadays, I wear the Danner boots more often because of the style and the fact that there is more room in the toe box (which is a lifesaver for my toes when coming back down a trail).

Another option is winter-specific boots. These offer more insulation and sometimes better grip on slippery surfaces. My recommendation would be to invest in these boots once you know for certain that you love winter hiking, and plan to do it often!

Socks

I’ll be the first to admit that when I first started shopping for winter hiking clothes socks were the last thing on my mind. That being said, I know now not to under appreciate a good pair of socks!

Like any boots, I find that it is best to wear a sock that is taller than the boot itself — to prevent any uncomfortable rubbing.

Also, I prefer a heavier weight wool sock this time of year. My favorite brands are Darn Tough (life-time warranty!), Smartwool, and REI.

Gaiters

You know that area around your ankle where the bottom of your pants and the top of your boots meet? This is a spot that deserves extra attention during winter. Especially when hiking in snow, if this area is left open then snow can get right into your boots.

To prevent this, cue the magical invention of gaiters!

All you need to do is simply wrap it around your boot and fasten. They provide a waterproof layer that help keep your feet dry and toasty.

I’ve found the low (green) ones provide ample coverage, but you can also opt for taller ones.

Microspikes

Last but not least when it comes to footwear, microspikes are a total game changer! Although hiking boots are designed for traction on the trails, they often help little when trails are covered by ice.

So, the best way I’ve found to avoid slipping (most slips anyway) is by putting microspikes onto the outside of my boots.

They are most commonly compared to tire chains for a car, and I think that comparison is pretty accurate.

Even if recent trail reports or weather forecasts don’t indicate ice, I always carry these as part of my winter hiking clothes essentials.

7. Hats

Small and mighty, beanies can be your best friend on the trail. Keeping your head warm should be a top priority in the great outdoors. Even if your insulating layer / puffer jacket has a hood, I would still recommend packing a hat.

Plus, let’s be honest, they look cute in photos!

8. Backpack Covers

Another little item that makes a BIG difference is backpack covers. Did you know that few, if any, hiking backpacks are waterproof?

So when trees drip down on you or a rain shower starts, your pack is likely to soak through. This can be disastrous for the rest of your gear — including technology.

To prevent this, you can get an affordable cover that slips right over your pack and protects everything. At the same time, their bright colors give you extra visibility on the trail.

9. Gloves to Complete Winter Hiking Outfits

Of course, no guide to winter hiking clothes is complete without gloves. For me, a lightweight glove that works with my phone and camera screen often works perfectly.

However, snow-rated gloves are also handy (no pun intended) because they can ensure dry hands. If you go this route, I recommend mittens because I’ve found that they are easier to slip on and off, and keep my fingers warmer.

This post was all about winter hiking clothes for women.