Winter Gear Guide 2025: 13 Best Gear Items for a Season Full of Adventure
Looking forward to frosty mornings, snow-dusted trails and long nights warmed by a crackling fire? We’ve got the gear you need to embrace winter in all its cold-weather glory—tested, reviewed and recommended by explore magazine’s outdoor-loving staff. From quiet forest walks under fresh snowfall to brisk alpine days and après-adventure cabin hangs, these are the pieces we reach for when temperatures drop. Layer up, head out and make the most of the season with our favourite winter-ready gear picks.
Baffin BRUCE MID
I broke in the Bruce Mid on a couple of rugged Manitoba trails, and for my first hiking boot from Baffin, I’m really impressed. The leather-and-nylon upper feels tough without being overly rigid, and the padded collar lends good ankle support. The speed-lace system with a heel-secure lock kept things snug as I climbed and descended. On the outsole, Baffin’s self-cleaning, multi-directional lugs grip well—I didn’t slip once due to the IceBite® Grip when I hit a damp slope. A TPU shank underfoot adds enough rigidity, so the boot feels stable on uneven terrain but doesn’t feel like a heavy mountaineering boot. Inside, the fixed-fit inner system with Thermawick™ lining regulates warmth well (even though I was hiking in cool, drizzly weather), and the waterproof B-Tek™ Dry membrane kept my feet dry. For multi-season hiking, this is a very balanced boot—rugged, grippy and comfortable for long daytrips with some variability in weather. — Ben Hopper, National Sales Manager
Buy it here: BRUCE MID | Men’s Boot
Price: $250
MEC Men’s Synergy Gore-Tex Jacket
Testing the MEC Men’s Synergy Gore-Tex Jacket across the open prairies of Manitoba gave me a clear sense of how well this shell stands up to truly unforgiving wind. Out here, winter gusts can cut through most layers, but the Synergy’s 3-layer GORE-TEX build created a reliable barrier that kept me warm and protected during long hikes and cross-country ski days. Even in –20 C wind chills, the jacket blocked the bite while still allowing my mid-layers to do their job. I appreciated how the C-Knit backer adds a soft, flexible feel—important when you’re constantly moving between exposed trails and sheltered tree lines. The pit zips were essential during high-output sections, preventing overheating without sacrificing protection. Fit-wise, the jacket has enough room for winter insulation without feeling bulky. While the zippers aren’t the burliest on the market, the overall performance against prairie winds is impressive. A dependable shell for harsh, wide-open winters. — Ben Hopper, National Sales Manager
Buy it here: mec.ca
Price: $319.96 $399.95 (until December 21)
Arc’teryx Teama Thermal Hoody
“The perfect layer doesn’t exi—” The sleek black Arc’teryx Teama Thermal Hoody made me stumble on my words as I pulled it on, hiking along a frost-tinged trail. From the mountains brimming with autumn larches to windy summits with lingering spring snow, this extremely lightweight, breathable, soft and comfortable, helmet-compatible hooded mid-layer is the perfect piece when you need a little extra thin protection on your journey, whether you’re climbing, camping or hiking. I love the thumbholes, PFAS-free DWR for fast-drying, stretchy knit fabric and antimicrobial treatment to ward off odor. This year, MEC members will notice a new, more prominent Arc’teryx display and presence within stores, showcasing a deeper assortment of Arc’teryx gear. Go try on a layer and leave impressed. —Alison Karlene Hodgins, Managing Editor
Buy it here: mec.ca
Price: $120
MEC T2 Merino Base Layer 1/4 Zip Long Sleeve Top
The MEC T2 Merino Base Layer 1/4 Zip Long Sleeve Top has earned a permanent spot in my winter outdoor gear rotation. The midweight merino blend is a perfect balance, offering warmth without overheating during high-output activities, and it’s luxuriously soft against the skin—zero itch. I was particularly impressed with its durability and moisture management under the toughest conditions: my daily power walks with a heavy-weighted vest. Base layers often struggle where pack straps rub, but the T2 handled the constant pressure and abrasion from the vest with grace, showing no pilling or discomfort. More importantly, its wicking ability is phenomenal. When I push hard enough to work up a sweat, the T2 moves moisture away rapidly, ensuring I stay comfortably dry, not damp and cold, once I slow down. The quarter-zip also provides instant, precise ventilation. This is a super comfortable, reliable and high-performance base layer for any of your outdoor activities this season.
Buy it here: mec.ca
Price: $95.96 $119.95 (until December 21)
Satoro Merino Bottom
I got to test the Satoro Merino Bottom, and honestly, they’ve become my new favorite base layer. The fit is ideal—smooth and soft, not itchy at all, which is key with merino products. I’ve been wearing them constantly for everything from my winter runs to snowboarding multiple days on the mountain. What really impressed me was the versatility. They’re light enough that I barely noticed them when working hard, but they somehow kept me perfectly warm when standing around. The wool blend handles sweat better than any synthetic I’ve tried, and even after three days on the mountain, they passed the sniff test with flying colors (a huge win). The high waistband is comfy under my shell pants, and I loved having that little laminated thigh pocket. If you’re looking for one high-performance bottom for all your winter adventures, I strongly recommend these ones. — Adrianna Szarek, Business Development Manager
Buy it here: arcteryx.com
Price: $140
MEC Icefields Down Hooded Jacket
I’ve been wearing the MEC Icefields Down Hooded jacket non-stop since I got it, and honestly, it’s become a staple in my everyday wardrobe. With the city winds picking up, I’m perfectly comfortable. The down is incredibly warm without feeling bulky, and I really appreciate how lightweight it is. I can easily throw it in my bag without it taking up too much space, which is a huge plus when I’m running errands or heading to the gym. Beyond the practical aspects, I also love the style. It’s a classic look that goes with everything. And while I mainly wear it around town, the RECCO® reflector is a nice touch, it’s a great safety feature, especially when I’m out on trails. —Weston Liski, Client Relations Specialist
Buy it here: mec.ca
Price: $329.95
Savior Heated Ski Gloves 2.0
As someone who lives in the prairies owning a pair of Savior Heated Ski Gloves 2.0, I can confidently say these gloves are a winter essential, especially for those of us enduring the harsh Manitoba winters. Walking my dog is now a pleasure, not a painful test! The three adjustable heat settings are fantastic, allowing me to customize the warmth based on the day’s chill. I appreciate the high setting for those extra-cold days and the low setting for milder weather. The Bluetooth connectivity and remote control are a surprisingly useful pairing, with the battery monitoring and timer function also being thoughtful additions. There is an added soft lining, which is incredibly comfortable. It’s waterproof and windproof, which is essential for our harsh winters. Best quality of gloves I own, they really are the savior of my Winter joys. —Weston Liski, Client Relations Specialist
Buy it here: saviorheat.com
Price: $170.99 USD $189.99 USD
Until January 31, 2026, get 15 percent off at checkout with the discount code Explore15.
Outdoor Research Foray 3L Jacket
The Outdoor Research Foray 3L Jacket has been my primary shell through Vancouver’s characteristically wet winter, and it continues to impress from a technical standpoint. The 3-layer AscentShell™ fabric provides an excellent balance of waterproofing, breathability and wind resistance. Its DWR treatment sheds moisture efficiently, helping rain roll off rather than saturate the fabric, while the fully taped seams reinforce its storm-ready design. The jacket’s TorsoFlo™ ventilation system is a standout feature: extended side zips open for poncho-style venting that releases heat quickly during high-output movement without sacrificing protection. Storage is minimal but purposeful, with two zippered hand pockets and a single chest pocket. YKK AquaGuard zippers, a well-structured hood and thoughtful adjustability contribute to its refined, field-ready build. The Foray packs down efficiently and remains comfortable over long wear intervals. For hikers, commuters and year-round explorers in wet, windy climates, this shell delivers a reliable blend of durability, adaptability and technical performance. —Devin Cox, Finance Manager
Buy it here: mec.ca
Price: $349.95
Peak Performance Women’s Helium Down Hood Jacket
I recently put the Peak Performance Women’s Helium Down Hood Jacket through the ultimate test: winter days in Northern Ontario during major snowfall, and I’m genuinely impressed. Straight out of the pack it’s ultralight, wind-resistant and insanely packable, compressing down to practically nothing in my pocket yet still delivering noticeable warmth thanks to its premium 700-fill down insulation—perfect for layering on unpredictable outdoor trips. The hood is adjustable in both height and width, snugging up nicely over a beanie without feeling bulky, and the elastic cuffs and hem help seal in warmth without restricting movement. Zippered hand pockets are a nice touch for keeping essentials secure. Despite its lightweight design, the jacket sheds wind and drizzle well thanks to the water-repellent shell. Perfect for everyday wearability or nicely layered under a bigger jacket for hardcore adventures, this is a new essential for my first winter in Ontario. — Dania Rashid, Editorial Assistant
Buy it here: peakperformance.com
Price: $350
Cotopaxi Fuego Down Hooded Jacket
In the growing flock of puffies, the Cotopaxi Fuego Down Hooded Jacket flies in its own V. And not just because of Cotopaxi’s trademark vibrant colour combinations (though more subdued styles are also available). Part of the redesigned Fuego collection—which includes a parka, vest, pants, bibs, a hoodless jacket and even a scarf—the down hoody has a slightly roomier fit than in the past. There’s enough room for a sweater underneath, but the new, softer exterior fabric, made from recycled nylon, also easily slides under a shell, making it a versatile layering piece. Stuffed with highly efficient 800-fill down, it’s warm enough on its own for sub-freezing hikes, ideal for throwing on during ski touring rest stops and a perfect mid-layer on cold resort ski days. —Ryan Stuart, Field Editor
Buy it here: cotopaxi.com
Price: $295
Men’s Odin 9 Worlds 3.0 Shell Jacket
There’s a lot going on with this technical backcountry shell from Helly Hansen. For starters—and most importantly—it’s a bluesign® product and sans-PFAS. That means it’s free from those toxic “forever chemicals.” But nothing is sacrificed in performance—during my six months with the Odin 9 Worlds, I’ve found it to be a shell for all seasons. While touted as an ideal ski-touring or alpine climbing shell—this HellyTech Professional waterproof-breathable, three-layer jacket works just as well as durable rainwear for wet-weather hikes. Backpack-compatible pockets, adjustable hems with drop-tail and a helmet-compatible hood mean you can outfit yourself for any adventure with this as your bombproof outer layer. Thoughtful design touches like articulated arms, dual-zip vents and a microfleece chin protector are appreciated. Plus, it’s equipped with a RECCO reflector—which is an innovative passive system that allows search-and-rescue to locate lost adventurers with enhanced expediency. I favour the Alert Red colour for high-vis safety.
Buy it here: hellyhansen.com
Price: $600
YETI Rambler 295ml Stackable Mug & Pour Over
When I’m camping with the family, coffee is an essential part of my day. Some of my most treasured memories from summer are savouring steaming cups while leaning back in a Muskoka chair and watching the sun breach the eastern horizon above the Strait of Georgia. But, like many things while camping, simplicity and durability are key. The combination for the YETI Rambler 295 millilitre Stackable Mug and Pour Over knock it out of the park. The mug is built with their new DuraSip Ceramic Lining, so it’s easy to clean, dishwasher safe and tough as nails. Paired with the Pour Over, and you can have barista-quality brews in an uber-simple package. There’s virtually no superfluous gear—just a rough-and-tumble stainless steel setup that you can toss in a pack or stash in your RV. Plus, the Pour Over fits any size Rambler Mug. —David Webb, President & Publisher
Buy it here: yeti.ca
Price of YETI Rambler 295ml Stackable Mug: $40
Price of Pour Over: $40
YETI Sidekick 1L Gear Case & Sideclick Strap
The YETI Sidekick is the $50 gift you didn’t know you needed. When equipped with the optional Sideclick Strap, the innovative dry bag becomes a burly cross-body or belt-bag that holds its shape and keeps even a total submersion at bay with a unique waterproof closure, magnetic seal and RF welded seams. I love it for cycling—it’s large enough to hold my wallet, keys, phone and lock—but small enough to barely notice it’s there. It works equally well at the beach, or as an essentials holder for fast-and-light hikes.
Not into wearing it? This Sidekick connects to any YETI Hopper cooler, Camino bag as well as the Panga backpack, no Sideclick required, and offers some extra storage space for quick-grab items like fishing tackle, tools or snacks. Available in six core colours. —David Webb, President & Publisher
Buy it here: yeti.ca
Price of YETI Sidekick 1L Gear Case: $50
Price of Sideclick Strap: $12
Note: some of the items in this gear guide have been sponsored or supplied for testing and review. Each team member’s opinion is their own.
