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Even though the cold weather is quickly approaching, lower temperatures are nothing that would stop a Hudson Valley local from getting out and enjoying the great outdoors. In fact, hiking is popular year-round in the area as the views on top-rated trails change throughout the seasons, making the region an ideal spot for winter hikes. However, while it’s easy to expect to sweat a little bit while trekking through the frost and snow, hikers should never underestimate the importance of proper outerwear.
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“Dressing right for winter conditions is so important from a safety standpoint,” says Katy Bell Behney, owner of Beacon-based Mountain Tops Outfitters, adding that she hopes her input “helps someone avoid getting caught unprepared out there.” In addition to Mountain Tops Outfitters, we heard from the team at Walden’s Thruway Sporting Goods, who gave us expert outerwear recommendations. One of their four-season hikers cited that a three-layer system is often the best bet for hikers in the Valley.
For Men
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Patagonia R2
An ideal cold-weather cross layer, the Patagonia R2 jacket is fleece-lined and tech-faced for the ultimate defense against wind and water. Soft and flexible, it’s the perfect layer to keep hikers warm under a shell in extreme temperatures or on its own in the transition months.
Outdoor Research Foray II
The best-selling rain jacket from Outdoor Research, the Foray II jacket features waterproof Gore-Tex Paclite to protect against precipitation while venting heat for active use. Perfect for three seasons, the outer shell protects against wet spring weather and wind and cold in the winter. Bonus: it’s light and packable!
Marmot Echo Featherless Hoodie
For either solo wear or for extra heat under your outer layer, the Marmot Echo Featherless Hoodie is all about warmth without weight. Made from recycled nylon fishnet and patented featherless insulation, this jacket has the feel and performance of natural down without any allergens. To add, it’s vegan.
For Women
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Patagonia Down Sweater
The perfect amount of warmth for just about everything, this classic down jacket is lightweight and windproof, with a shell made of 100-percent post-consumer recycled nylon ripstop that comes from recycled fishing nets in an effort to help reduce ocean plastic pollution. Insulated with 800-fill of traceable down, this is truly one of the lightest packable down jackets.
Patagonia Radalie
A parka made with 100-percent recycled polyester materials, the Patagonia Radalie is a favorite outerwear choice among hikers. Insulated and quilted, the jacket has 150 grams of thermos green fill and a water repellent coating so that it can be worn in super cold or alpine conditions. Also, the hip length fit allows for movement without skin exposure.
Mammut Albula Hooded Jacket
Mammut’s Albula Hooded Jacket was practically crafted for winter hiking. The lightweight and comfortable outer material is made from 100-percent recycled polyester, while a PFC-free durable water repellent coating lines the exterior. Filled with recycled synthetic fibers, the jacket has an optimum heat-weight ratio.
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