Moving to Chicago was exciting, but the winters? They're a whole different beast! I remember being completely unprepared for that first blast of icy wind. I quickly learned that surviving (and even enjoying!) a Chicago winter is all about having the right gear and knowing how to use it. This is my personal journey and what I've learned along the way.
I arrived thinking my regular fall coat would be enough. Boy, was I wrong! The wind chill cut right through it. My ears were constantly freezing, and my fingers were numb within minutes of stepping outside. I realized I needed to seriously upgrade my winter wardrobe. I was constantly asking around about what works, and what doesn't.
One of my biggest mistakes was not understanding the importance of layering. I'd just throw on a bulky sweater under my inadequate coat, which made me feel like a stuffed sausage and didn't actually keep me that warm. I also underestimated the power of a good hat and gloves. My thin, stylish gloves were useless against the Chicago cold.
The first thing I learned was the importance of layers. It's not just about piling on clothes; it's about wearing the right kinds of clothes in the right order. I started with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating mid-layer like fleece, and finally a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This system made a huge difference!
For my outer layer, I eventually invested in two coats. One is a lighter, more flexible Amazon Basics coat for days when the temperature is above 20 degrees. The other is a long, heavy Lands End down coat that goes past my knees for those truly brutal days with freezing temperatures and biting winds. I really like that I can shop in the store and try things on and see what I like.
I found that a coat that covers my behind is essential. It makes a huge difference in keeping me warm, especially when waiting for the bus or walking long distances. And don't forget a scarf! It's amazing how much warmer you feel when your neck is protected from the wind.
When it came to headwear, I experimented with a few different options. I found the Carhartt 2-in-1 fleece hat to be incredibly versatile. The built-in gaiter is a lifesaver when the wind is howling. But I also discovered that a warm winter hat with a brim and fur lining can be both stylish and functional. I ended up getting this New Women's Warm Winter Hat from WholeCustomDesign after seeing a friend wear something similar. It’s super soft and really keeps my head warm even on the coldest days. Plus, the brim helps keep the snow out of my eyes! Finding quality WholeCustomDesign Team Hats has made braving the cold more bearable.
For my hands, I learned that mittens are generally warmer than gloves because they allow your fingers to share heat. However, I also need dexterity for things like using my phone. I ended up finding a pair of thin, touchscreen-compatible gloves that I wear under my mittens. This gives me the best of both worlds.
Boots are another crucial piece of winter gear. I made the mistake of wearing my regular shoes one day and nearly slipped and fell on a patch of ice. I quickly invested in a pair of warm, waterproof boots with good traction. Look for boots that are insulated and have a lug sole for the best grip on snow and ice.
Here are some additional tips I've learned for staying warm in Chicago winters: