10 winter essentials that will actually keep you warm

Form, function, packed with travel features. Our list of winter essentials will keep you warm whether you’re on the footpath or the cliff face.

1) A Fleece Jacket

It’s cold, and getting up is hard to do. But you can keep that warm bed feeling at all times with a fleece jacket. Stay extra snuggly with a high pile fleece, or choose a durable, wind-resistant jacket for all your outdoor adventures.

Image of a woman standing on her bike wearing a longline fleece. — The Forerunner longline has added insulation and extra length.

Everyday: Forerunner Longline | Travel: Expedite Fleece Jacket
Outdoor Adventure: XT Pinnacle Windforce Jacket

2) A Down Vest

Otherwise known as the puffer jacket, this versatile vest adds another layer of protection and will warm you to the core. This compressible, lightweight layer is also an excellent travel companion.

Image of a man standing on a bridge keeping warm in his down vest.

Everyday: Epiq Duck Down Vest | Travel: Heli Down Vest
Outdoor Adventure: Epiq Duck Down Vest

3) A Beanie

With beanies available in lambswool, fleece and comfy wool blends — you’ll protect your ears from the winter chill — and your head will get the hug it deserves.

Image of a woman sipping coffee and wearing the Khusi beanie. — The lambswool Khusi beanie is hand-knitted in Nepal.

Everyday: Khusi beanie | Travel: Federate Beanie
Outdoor Adventure: Vectron beanie

4) Thermals

Thermals, woollens, long johns. Whatever you call them, thermal underwear is designed to give you next-to-skin comfort — whether you’re in a sleeping bag or in the office.

Image of a family eating breakfast dressed in their thermals

Everyday: KMDCore thermals | Travel: KMDMotion
Outdoor Adventure: KMDAscent thermals

5) A pair of gloves

Gloves are a welcome addition to any outdoor kit, and an important one if you’re heading to the snow. Make the most of those opposable thumbs and find the right pair for your activity.

Everyday: Merino Unisex Gloves | Travel: Advection GORE Gloves
Outdoor Adventure: XT Alpine GORE-TEX Gloves

6) An insulated jacket

Insulated jackets lend themselves to urban landscapes, exotic destinations and the outdoor winter adventures. If you're headed to the snow, grab a waterproof insulated jacket to stay warm, dry and comfortable.

Image of a man and his family wearing insulated jackets as they hold hands and walk through the snow — The Styper Insulated Snow Jacket stands our against the snow.

Everyday: Creede Parka | Travel: The Lawrence Jacket
Outdoor Adventure: Styper Snow

7) A Scarf

Functional. Adaptable. Kind of spiffy. The right scarf will add another layer of warmth to keep you extra cosy — with some added style.

The Adapt Travel scarf is perfect for colder weather.

Outdoor Adventure: Fleece Neck Gaiter

8) Water-resistant pants

Say farewell to skirts and shorts, but a big hello to toasty pins. Invest in pants with a water-resistant finish so light rain doesn’t slow you down. For more protection, invest in some waterproof shells to protect your winds from rain, wind and snow.

Image of a man and a woman sitting and chatting and wearing the L-TRA water repellent pants — The L-TRA pants feature a water-repellent finish

Everyday: Federate Pants | Travel: L-TRA pants
Outdoor Adventure: XT Alopex Pants or Styper Snow Shell

9) A Rain Jacket

First rule of staying warm: don’t get wet. You need a no-nonsense, waterproof jacket to protect you from the elements whether you're commuting, travelling, or hiking in the rain. Waterproof rain jackets also block the wind; keeping you warmer for longer.

Image of a woman looking behind her as she wears the L-TRA rain jacket — The elevated L-TRA travel range is high on performance and style.

Everyday: L-TRA Rain Coat | Travel: Benmore 5-in-1 Jacket
Outdoor Adventure: XT Alopex GORE-TEX Jacket

10) A down jacket

Down is one of nature’s best insulators and offers excellent warmth for weight. Our latest down jackets feature bomber styles and new stretch woven baffle; a stitchless fabric that's even lighter.

Find out about how to choose your ideal down jacket.

Image of a woman wearing the Federate down jacket

Everyday: Epiq Down Jacket| Travel: Federate Down Bomber
Outdoor Adventure: XT Pinnacle Down Jacket