Winter firmly settled in at the University of Connecticut after Winter Storm Albatross blew through the state, forcing students to trudge to class over patches of snow and ice. As temperatures plummet into the teens and single digits this week, it’s time to consider the various ways the average UConn student can remain comfortable and warm while out and about campus.
As a Massachusetts resident and a long-time skier, the biggest tip I can give to anyone trying to stay warm in this weather is to layer, layer, layer! Ideally, you’ll want a large winter coat, big enough to fit a sweatshirt underneath. The body keeps as much heat as it can near your heart, so if your torso gets cold, you’re going to start shivering. Wear long sleeves and sweatshirts under a large jacket when you can — and make sure that jacket protects against the wind.
Layering is important for every other aspect of your winterproof outfit. On particularly cold days, try and fit a pair of long underwear under your pants (and try to wear warm sweatpants instead of jeans). If you don’t have long underwear, a pair of leggings will work just fine.
In addition to long underwear, also called thermal underwear, it’s worth taking a look at ski and snowboard gear online. Base layers are warm, tight-fitting, long-sleeved shirts that can be worn under other layers, and they’ll trap the heat to your chest. If you struggle with your hands getting too cold, take a look at ski gloves. If you need even more help, glove liners act as a base layer for your hands, worn under larger gloves to keep the heat inside. If you have trouble with the wind getting into your gloves, do your best to tuck them into your sleeves to block it.
In terms of footwear, ski socks are also designed to keep feet warm and comfortable. However, these socks are on the bulkier side, so you might want to skip buying them if your shoes are too snug. You can also always layer your socks to keep warm instead. Additionally, if you don’t have snow boots on campus, consider getting a pair if possible. If all you’re doing is walking between classes throughout the day, there’s no need to worry about the warmth of your feet, but the snow and ice melt salt throughout campus can ruin a good pair of shoes.
The last part of the body we must cover is the head. This isn’t an issue for everyone, but keep in mind that a hat or hood can keep your ears warm. If you don’t like how cold your face or neck get, consider a scarf or even a neck gaiter. Neck gaiters look a lot like the conventional pop-culture bandit mask, protecting both the neck and the lower half of the face. Personally, I swear by my neck gaiter; without it, wind scoops down through the top of my jacket and sweatshirt, which is incredibly uncomfortable.
When selecting garments to keep your head warm, also keep in mind any jewelry that you may be wearing. Earlobe piercings are generally fine, but other ear and face piercings can cause issues. When it’s particularly cold out, piercings will become very cold, enough to cause a painful, burn-like sensation in the area it’s in contact with. Personally, I cover my cartilage piercing with a hat, which serves me just fine, but consider taking out any jewelry that is too painful in the cold.
Once you’ve appropriately dressed yourself for the weather, all you must do now is remain mindful of the outdoor temperature, the windchill and the temperature of your own body. Keep in mind the change in temperature and wind throughout the day so you don’t end up freezing as you walk back to your dorm. Remain considerate of which parts of your body are cold as well; cold fingers and toes can act as an early warning sign that your body is getting a bit chilly, but a cold torso means the weather has made its way through your clothing. At that point, it’s best to head inside for a break.
Although cold weather can be uncomfortable, it’s always manageable. Every season has something to offer, and winter is no exception. If you find joy in winter activities such as sledding, skiing, or snowman-making, get out there and do it! There will also always be time to enjoy a hot beverage with friends in a dining hall or the Union, safe from the perils of the outside world. Relax, enjoy the beauty of the snow, and get ready for your spring semester at UConn!