Canada Winter Adventure Tours - RECOMMENDED WINTER WEAR
All our activities can get you sweating and keep you pretty warm, even in colder temperatures, although in very cold temperatures, it is more difficult to stay warm.
With this in mind it is important to remember to dress appropriately with layers. This is vital as if you get too sweaty, you will eventually get very cold so you will need to remove and add layers as and when appropriate. The following information is a guideline to help you make your choices in dressing for a snow shoe trip:
Wearing several layers is a good idea, you can take one or two off if you get hot, or you can add on if you are feeling cold:
Three to four layers is a good base to use for warmth, it is a good idea to carry along an extra layer or two, particularly if it is cold outside.
Some jackets and ski/rain pants have side zips for venting if you get too hot, this allows you to prevent yourself from sweating.
Two pairs of socks will help to keep your feet warmer. The best combination we have found is a thin layer of smartwool socks with a thicker wool layer overtop. It is important to ensure none of this is tight or it will cut off circulation and make you cold. Other combinations that work, are silk and poly pro or similar fabrics.
Boots should be a sorrel type. They will come at least part way up the calf, be rated as a good winter boot that is made for at least minus 20˚C (snowboard boots are not the most comfortable to snow shoe in) with a lining inside. They should be at the very least water resistant. Running shoes are not acceptable, light hikers will suffice in warmer temperatures but are not advisable.
A good hat will help keep the heat in. A balaclava will keep your face warm if the temperatures are colder (particularly if it’s windy). A scarf is a good idea if your collar is low.
Sunglasses are necessary (even on cloudy days). The sun and snow reflecting into your eyes can cause painful snow blindness, so eye protection is important.
When the temperature drops fairly low, hand and foot warmers will keep your extremities from getting really cold. Your guides may have some spare.
For your clothing avoid cotton at all times (jeans, cotton shirts etc). Cotton will strip heat from your body nine times faster than if your body were completely bare!
If you wear ski pants or an entire ski outfit, ensure you have layers that you can wear underneath so you can take the ski pants off if you are getting too hot.
In the Rockies you will be exposed to triple the effects of UV light because of the thin ozone layer, the altitude and the reflection from the snow, so you should be wearing sun block of at least 30 SFP. Remember to protect your lips and bring along some lip balm with an SFP of at least 15.
For more information email info@canadawinteradventure.com, or
Call toll free 1.877.234.6697
Call 403.678.2440.