1. Snow Boots
Appalachian is notorious for having classes, regardless of the weather. So, snow or any type of heavy weather boots are a staple. They keep you warm, dry and accident-free as you trudge from class to class. Don’t want to wait for every Boonie’s favorite boots from L.L. Bean on backorder? Try these good alternatives: http://www.sperrytopsider.com/en/saltwater-duck-boot/044208906061.html.
2. Wool Socks
Over-priced, erm, I mean wool, socks. Although many wool socks are a tad pricey for those of us on college budgets, they are well worth the investment. Not only do they last for a long time, they are really the only way to keep your feet warm in the snow. My favorite brand is SmartWool. http://www.smartwool.com.
3. Wind Breaker
More often than not, it’s not the temperature that makes the Boone winters so bad as it is the windchill, so a windbreaker is a must. Some of my favorite windbreakers have the ability to zip a heavier jacket into the inside because layering is essential in Boone. If you already have a nice winter jacket, you can buy a regular windbreaker a size or two bigger than normal, that way you’ll be able to layer comfortably. Voila!
4. Blankets
Even with excellent heat, it is hard to get rid of the chill in the air once you’ve finally made it indoors! Diving under your comforter and piling on blanket after blanket is the only good way to beat the cold. Check out these cool DIY fleece blankets. http://www.polkadotchair.com/2011/12/tutorial-easy-peasy-fleece-blanket.html/.
5. Tea, Coffee and Hot Chocolate
Warm beverages are the last, but certainly not the least, thing you need in order to get through Boone winters. They warm your body from the inside out, and keep your hands warm at the same time! A win-win.