A Guide to Surviving Slushy Streets and Icy Temps from a Native New Yorker
As a four-season connoisseur from New York, I have survived all types of weather. I am no stranger to polarizing climates. But nothing is as challenging to navigate as the three months from December to February. As a student at the University of Michigan, the transition from New York snows to Midwest icy temps was not difficult. Yet, countless students from single-season states do not know the basics of surviving the cold. Forget the stereotypes of what you know about winter clothes; surviving the cold can be easy if done right. Here is a list of five tips to stay warm in the winter:
1. Canada gooses are NOT the only warm winter coats.
Flocks of geese travel to universities and cities across the country come wintertime. Not real geese, per se, but people wearing Canada goose jackets. Are they warm? Yes. Are they worth the money? No. These jackets costing an upward of $1,500 are not a necessity, and you are better off finding a more-affordable, equally warm option.
2. Ugg’s are not made for snow.
When I think of my winter staples, my Ugg boots and slippers make the top of the list. As stylish and warm, they are great winter shoes except when slushy and wet outside. When looking for a pair of snow boots, stray away from Uggs. Try a pair of waterproof boots instead, such as Sorels or Timberlands.
3. Mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves.
While they may be less functional, mittens are better than gloves – hands down. With mittens, your hands stay warmer as they hold in your body heat. It is easy to slip a handwarmer in them for extra warmth. They may not be the most stylish, but I highly recommend investing in a pair for long walks in the cold.
4. Layering is vital.
In the winter, despite freezing temps outside, it is usually warm inside buildings. Going from 20 degrees outside into 70-degree buildings is not a comfortable experience when wearing only heavy clothing. Layering lightweight pieces under your thicker clothes is a strategic way to mitigate overheating because you can shed your layers once inside.
5. Sunglasses are still a necessity.
The sun still shines in the wintertime. Even when temps are freezing, the sun can shine and blind you. Especially when driving, you should still wear sunglasses in the winter. Sunglasses can be fashionably paired with a puffer jacket and scarf; they are the perfect all-year-round accessory.