Winter Hiking Gear

Something that I swear by for winter hiking is YakTrax. They're basically the same idea as putting chains on your car tires. They can really improve your footing on ice and loose snow and they're pretty inexpensive -- I found them on Google Shopping for around $20. You can find out more about them at they're website, yaktrax.com. I would recommend the YakTrax Pro over the "walker" model because the velcro strap will hold them on. My wife had a pair of the "walker" models and one of them came off during a hike and got lost. Straps are good.

I agree with Dave, Yaktraxs are great for any winter hiking. Very cheap well worth it.

what about clothing. last time I hiked it was in the sixties and I had shorts and a underarmor shirt on! oh, and what about boots?

A great base layer is anything polypropylene. A great brand is RedRock Thermals check out their site at www.redrockthermals.com I work mostly nights outside and I ware nothing but redrock very warm. The key to any clothing choice is layering you can always take off but you can’t put on if you don’t have it.

Boots:
Hiking boots are kind of like blue jeans -- everyone's got their favorite brand and fit. When I was looking for boots, I shopped online and decided on a pair of Columbia boots but when I got to the store and tried on a few pairs, my feet decided on a pair of Merrells. A friend of mine swears by Vasque boots. Basically, do your research but make sure you try them on before you buy. At least check out the return policy if trying on isn't an option.

A good place to start is the 2009 Winter Buyer's Guide Hiking Boots Reviews.

Allow yourself a day or two of casual wear to break them too. A couple features that I would recommend are:

• Gore-Tex or other waterproof
  
• Mid-height boot -- ankle support can be a life saver, especially in winter
  
• Something you can comfortably wear a sock liner and a heavy wool sock with
  
• A boot that feels good
  

Socks:
Double socking is the way to go. What you should try to achieve is a thin moisture-wicking liner sock to direct perspiration away from your skin, keeping your feet dry. The thick wool outer sock will keep you warm and give you a little more cushion. Double-socking will also work for you by preventing blistering. The slippage of one pair of socks against the other reduces friction. Moisture + friction = blisters = a bad day on the trail.

A good discount online store for your foot wear is www.bootbay.com but like Dave said go and try them on first then price shop. There is nothing worse that having uncomfortable feet.

Yes, comfortable feet is one of the most important thing you can do for yourself for hiking. Trying them on before buying is a must. But once you know the model and size, you can look for deals online. I love this site....one great deal at a time: http://sac.bvibert.co...

I really like the Microspikes by Kahtoola. They certainly are no replacement for crampons when the need arises, but they are great for when you need a little extra traction.

For clothing, layering is what works best for me and definitely no cotton!

I always start with boiling water. Then if it is cold and I go to take a drink, I it keeps me warm. Or I make tea or hot chocolate or soup to keep me warm.