Brrrr... its cold outside.

I love the cold. I love the snow. And my absolute favorite kind of snow is what I call squeaky snow.

You only get it at zero degrees or below—and it is hands-down the best snow for skiing and riding. It’s dry. It’s smooth. It carves a beautiful turn. And when you walk across it in your boots, it lets out that deeply satisfying squeak that tells you the conditions are just right.

Honestly? It doesn’t get much better than that.

But here’s the truth: to really enjoy squeaky snow, you have to be ready for the cold. Being dressed for it is what makes the difference between an incredible day on the mountain and counting the minutes until you can go inside.

Let’s talk about how to dress for extreme cold—so you can enjoy the very best days winter has to offer.

Start with the RIGHT Layers (This Is Non-Negotiable)

Base layer (next to skin):This is your most important layer.

• Wear synthetic or wool only

• No cotton. Ever. Cotton holds moisture and will make you colder

• Tops and bottoms — yes, even kids

  
  

Mid layers (insulation): Think heat-trapping, not bulky.

• Fleece, puffy jackets, wool sweaters, vests, etc...

• On very cold days, two mid layers is smart

  
  

Outer layer (shell):This blocks wind and moisture.

• Waterproof or water-resistant jacket and pants

• Wind protection matters more than people realize

  
  

Extremities Are Where People Get It Wrong

Hands:

• Insulated, waterproof mittens beat gloves every time

• Liner gloves inside mittens = bonus warmth

• Hand warmers help, but they are not a replacement for good mittens or gloves
  

Feet:

• One pair of ski socks only

• Thin or medium weight, wool or synthetic

• Doubling socks cuts off circulation and makes feet colder

• Place sticky toe warmers on the tops of your socked toes before you put them on.
  

Head & Face:

• Helmet + thin hat or helmet liner

• Neck warmer or balaclava is required on bitter days

• Cover exposed skin — windburn and frostbite are real

• A hood pulled up over the helmet can make a world of difference
  

Pro tip that actually works:👉 Put hand or body warmers under armpits or behind knees — it warms the blood before it reaches hands and feet.

What NOT to Wear (Seriously)

• Scarves (they’re a lift hazard)

• Cotton hoodies under jackets

• Fashion gloves

• Jeans

• Loose or dangling clothing - If it can flap, dangle, or get caught — it doesn’t belong on the hill.
  

For Kids (and Adults)

Cold kids don’t learn. Cold adults don’t have fun. If someone is miserable:

• Take warm-up breaks

• Use indoor spaces when needed

• Know when to call it — quitting early is better than pushing too far
  

Final Auntie Maple Truth Bomb

Cold days aren’t about toughness.They’re about preparation.

Dress right, and a bitter cold day can still be a great day. Dress wrong, and it’s over before it starts. Personally, some of my best ski days have been at -20 degree temperatures, but since I was dressed as snug as a bug in a rug, I didn't even feel the cold.

Stay warm and cozy!

See you out on the snow,

Auntie Maple