What to wear
What to wear in the snow
Snow is beautiful until it’s inside your boots. Warm layers, waterproof outerwear and boots with real grip keep you warm and upright.
By Style Finder · Updated 26 October 2026
In short
- Waterproof boots with deep grip; consider ice grips on steep paths.
- Warm layers under a waterproof, insulated coat.
- Waterproof gloves or mittens and a warm hat.
- Avoid jeans for long spells outside: wet denim gets very cold.
On this page
The basics
Snow brings two problems: cold and wet. Wool and synthetic insulation stay warm when damp, while cotton doesn’t. Make the outer layer waterproof, and tuck trousers into boots or wear gaiters in deep snow.
Outfit ideas
AI illustrationSnowy commute
- Thermal base layer
- Wool jumper
- Insulated waterproof coat
- Hat and gloves
- Waterproof boots with grip
Warm and dry for the journey, with shoes to change into at work.
Keep a pair of indoor shoes at the office.
AI illustrationPlaying in the snow
- Thermal layers
- Fleece
- Ski or snow jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Snow boots
- Mittens
Fully waterproof for building snowmen and sledging.
AI illustrationEvening
- Knit jumper
- Wool trousers
- Long padded coat
- Lined boots
- Scarf
Warm and smart for a short walk on snowy pavements.
What to avoid
- Trainers and smooth-soled shoes.
- Jeans for long spells outside.
- Leather gloves that soak through.
Questions
Keep reading
What to wear
What to wear in the rain
Rain is easier with the right coat and shoes. Everything else is about fabrics that dry fast and don’t show splashes.
What to wear
What to wear on a windy day
Wind makes any temperature feel colder and turns loose clothes into sails. Close-fitting, windproof layers keep you warm and comfortable.
What to wear
What to wear in 10 degrees (50 °F)
10 °C is jacket weather. A jumper and a light coat usually do it; wind or rain can make it feel much colder.
