One of the ways I (mostly) enjoy winter in Alaska is walking! No matter where you live I think its important to get outside and stay active in the winter.

The weather can really be challenging sometimes but I’ve found that if I’m dressed correctly, I can really get out in almost any weather. I walk 5-7 days a week all year! And 7 of those months are winter so these items are tried and true! 

My favorite coats for winter walking

This is the coat that I wear most of the winter. I’ll be honest, usually I’m the kind of gal to go with high quality brands that will last a long time. But I wasn’t sure if I would like a calf length coat like this so I decided to try a cheap one first. 

Joke is on me because I love the length and this weight is perfect for a range of temperatures. I like that it’s pretty light and I can layer under it if it’s colder. I’ll never not have a long coat again!

I have a variety of other coats as well. I highly recommend a midweight down puffy jacket. I’ve had this Mountain Hardwear one for 7+ years and it’s one of my layering staples for all outdoor adventures. It packs down into its own pocket so it’s great for travel too. 

I also love to have a down vest for layering. Here is the one I have. It’s light and packs down into its own pocket. I’ve had mine for 7+ years and it goes everywhere with me!

Bottoms for winter walking

Most of the winter I just wear leggings and the long coat linked above. However, if it is below zero or the wind is blowing hard, I will wear these windproof hiking pants. 

Shoes for winter walking

I love to wear barefoot shoes as much as possible. Barefoot shoes are foot shaped, don’t have chunky heels, and are flexible. I love the Xero Shoes Alpine Women’s Snow Boot for the majority of my winter walking. They are a midweight boot and waterproof and I love the flexible sole. 

The boots I previously walked in everyday are the Arctic Ice Tall Muck Boot. They are insulated and have an aggressive tread for ice. I still wear these occasionally, I just like a more flexible sole for walking. 

Head, Hands, and Feet

Gloves

I have a couple pairs of gloves depending on the temperature. I rotate through these three:

• Lightweight
• Midweight
• Heavy 

Socks

I wear Darn Tough socks almost everyday all winter regardless of what I’m doing (link gives you 10% off). I prefer to wear a crew sock so they don’t slip down in my boots. 

I like the Lightweight Lifestyle sock for daily wear fall – spring. If I want a heavier sock for warmth or for hiking, I like the Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock. 

They are pricey for ONE pair of socks, but they have a lifetime guarantee. So if they wear out, get holes, etc. Darn Tough will replace them! Worth the investment!

Hats

I wear a Carhartt style/weight beanie most of the winter. Some of them are from local brands but it’s just a classic midweight beanie. Because I’m moving quickly, I rarely need anything heavier than that. 

When it’s warmer out, I will wear a thin merino wool hat or headband. 

Neck Gaiter

I have a couple of these depending on the temperature. 

• Lightweight – I use this one when it’s windy and not snowing. 
• Midweight – I use this one most of the winter. 

Other accessories for winter walking 

Head lamp

On our shortest days we get about 5.5 hours of daylight which means I can’t always take my walk while the sun is up. This headlamp is the best headlamp I’ve ever had. On the highest setting its beam is 610 feet. Which is perfect for trail walking or skiing. If you use it on its lowest setting it will last 100 hours. It’s a great investment for any outdoorsman! Jimmy and I both have one. 

Gun and Chest holster  

I always get asked what gun and holster I have. I have a Glock 40 with a 6” aftermarket barrel. The holster is the Kenai Chest Holster from GunfightersInc. I’ve had it for a couple years now and love it. Jimmy and my Dad have the same holster for different guns and we all like it. 

Cleats 

In the fall and spring the trail I walk can get icy so I wear ice cleats whenever needed so I don’t fall. 

I hope this post was helpful! If you have any additional questions about gear, leave them in the comments! If like liked this post, you might also enjoy this one: 5 Tips: One Alaskan’s Advice on How to Enjoy Winter