How to not freeze your butt off this winter: A guide to layering

Here’s the secret nobody tells you when dressing for winter: randomly piling on hoodies doesn’t work.

When preparing to step out into the classic Syracuse cold, remember that the best way to maintain warmth without overheating is to follow the “Three-Layer Method.”

Layer one: The base layer

This is the closest layer to your skin. For this layer use materials that pull moisture away from your body, such as thermal underwear or long johns. Cotton is your enemy with this layer because it holds moisture, which in turn only makes you colder.

Uniqlo Heattech is a great and budget-friendly option to find base layer clothes.

Layer two: The insulation layer

This layer is what actually helps to keep you warm against the cold elements. Fleece jackets, down vests and puffy jackets are all great options to help trap the heat close to your body.

For especially brutal, snowy days walking across campus, you can pair together a fleece and a vest.

Layer three: The shell

Your waterproof, windproof outer jacket is what ties the layering process all together and protects you from wind and snow. Trust me, when you’re walking from The Mount to Whitman in a blizzard, you’ll appreciate a solid shell.

“Since it probably won’t get back above 50 degrees until spring, it’s time to get my North Face wind-resistant winter coat out,” David Jacobs, a senior from Wisconsin said. “I got mine for less than $200 and it’s lasted me through all my years of college.”

Don’t forget the extremities!

You lose tons of heat through your head, hands and feet. Make sure to get a beanie that covers your ears, invest in good gloves and wear wool socks – but not cotton. If you’re walking around campus all day from class to class, warm feet are essential.

Common layering mistakes students make

Wearing jeans: Denim is terrible in snow. Consider pants with synthetic material or actual winter pants for those long walks.

Skipping the scarf: So much heat escapes from the space around your neck. A simple scarf makes a huge difference when moving between classes.

Overdressing: You should feel slightly cold when you first step outside and only begin to warm up once you start moving. If you’re toasty standing still, you’ll be sweating by the time you reach class.

The bottom line

The formula is simple: base layer (moisture-wicking) + insulation layer (warmth) + shell (weather protection) = surviving Syracuse winters without being miserable.

Start with what you have, fill in the gaps as needed and adjust based on the day and the forecast. Some February mornings will require everything you own, while early December days might just need a base layer and jacket.

More layering tips and resources

• Backcountry’s layering guide has tons of detail if you want to go deep.
• Patagonia’s layering system is really thorough.
• Outside Magazine regularly publishes gear guides and reviews.
• REI and North Face have a great guides on layering basics.