Different ways to hike during winter

The golden rule: stay dry so you can enjoy comfortable, safe hiking! To avoid getting cold or risking hypothermia, try to eliminate sweat and protect yourself from all kinds of weather. As with nearly all winter sports, the rule of three layers is key here both for the top part of your body and the bottom. To ensure warmth and breathability, first of all you need to wear a warm, breathable foundation layer next to the skin, a second insulating layer in fleece or down and a third hooded, wind-cheater type layer, essential for protecting you from bad weather, rain and wind.

Remember to take a few additional layers just in case, as well as a survival blanket in case something goes wrong. The important thing is not to feel too constricted in your clothing; you need to feel comfortable and have a certain freedom of movement to fully enjoy the experience for the full duration of the hike.

To complete your hiking outfit, you should also wear a hat and possibly a scarf, a buff or neck-warmer and make sure you secure your clothing properly using draw cords. Gaiters are an effective accessory in deep snow. Finally, if you tend to sweat easily, take a small microfibre towel so you can dry yourself quickly.

For a worry-free hiking expedition, you need some very special equipment. First of all, get yourself an ergonomic hiking backpack which will allow you to transport all your equipment without breaking your back. And don't forget to pack a topographic map, compass and even a GPS.

In addition, when choosing your winter, hiking itinerary, check how long the walk is. As you know, the days in winter are much shorter. Your hikes should finish around 4pm so you don't end up hiking in the dark. And if you want to play it safe, a head torch

is an essential accessory.To warm you up, remember to take a few hand and foot warmers to slip into your gloves, socks or pockets. As a precautionary measure, you should pack a traditional first aid kit at the bottom of your bag: a survival blanket, sun cream with appropriate UV protection, a water bottle or warm thermos flask to keep you hydrated, snacks such as dried fruit as well as spare clothing including a pair of gloves, socks and other spare items, just in case. And, of course, a first aid kit.

And remember to charge your phone and GPS, take a portable battery if necessary and keep this equipment nice and warm inside your jacket to prevent thermal shock.
If you want to explore more technical paths, bear in mind that hiking in snow often requires safety equipment (ARVA avalanche transceiver, probe and sensor) although the most important thing is knowing how to use it.

Finally, when snow freezes, poles can be extremely useful.

⊛ Advice N°1 : choose a breathable outfit, combining versatile, easily adjustable products and prioritizing lightweight, technical components.

⊛ Advice N°2 : choose boots that are warm and waterproof. You won't be disappointed by Quechua's SnowContact model which provides perfect grip for walking in the snow.

⊛ Advice N°3 : remember to take your "survival kit" - as mentioned above - It's important to stay well hydrated during exercise. Don't forget your insulated bottle which will keep your drink warm or cold; it's much more eco-friendly than a bottle of water !

 ⊛ Advice N°4 : choose a hiking route that matches your level and stamina; don't take risks and aim for gradual progress. Hiking in winter is more physical that in the summer; snow presents an additional challenge.

 ⊛ Advice N°5 :  opt for a morning hike, particularly in winter. In the morning, you can enjoy clear views and with a little luck the sun will come out and warm you up. Which will give you a chance to enjoy a nice picnic lunch. And we have just what you need to keep your food warm!

Hiking is a broad term that covers a range of walking activities. The first - trekking - is the most traditional... Here is a brief overview of other activities you can try.

If you want to try something out-of-the-ordinary, bivouacking is a thrilling and exciting experience. However, bivouacking in winter should not be undertaken lightly. We recommend that you only embark upon this kind of adventure if you've already tried bivouacking in the summer, for example. Whether there's snow or not, you need to choose your pitch carefully, ensure you have an insulated sleeping bag and mat, as well as proper "camping" equipment. Winter refuges are a good alternative to bivouacking but check in advance if they're open and pack as if you're going bivouacking as they can be very cold.