Outfit ideas
What to Wear on a Winter Hike for Women (6 Outfits)
Short answer: For a winter hike, wear a moisture-wicking base layer, a thick hoodie or fleece as your warm middle layer, and a windproof, waterproof shell on top. Add insulated boots, wool socks, a beanie and gloves.
A hoodie is a great warm layer on the trail, but it works best as part of a system, not as your only top. Each outfit below pairs one of our hoodies or fleece jackets with the base layers, shell, shoes and accessories that make a cold day outside comfortable.
Pale yellow heavyweight pullover for a short, sunny snow walk
Start with a thin long-sleeve base layer, then pull on our heavyweight pullover in pale yellow. The 350gsm fleece is thick, and the loose fit with dropped shoulders leaves room underneath. The kangaroo pocket is handy for warming your hands between photos. Add black thermal leggings, waterproof hiking boots, wool socks and a gray beanie. Carry a packable rain shell in your pack and put it on if the wind picks up. Check the size chart first, since the cut is oversized and made with petite frames in mind.
Heavyweight Oversized Hoodie for Petite Women · Dark Grey · $109
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Heather-gray zip-up for stop-and-go trail days
A full zip is easier on a hike because you can open it on the climb and close it at the viewpoint. This heather-gray hoodie has a thick, structured scuba-style knit, a drawstring hood, two big front pockets and a high-low hem that covers your hips. Wear it over a snug base layer with lined hiking pants, insulated boots and thick socks. Tuck gloves into the pockets and add a neck gaiter. Put a shell over it for wind or wet snow, because the hoodie alone is not a rain jacket.
Heavyweight Plus Size Oversized Hoodie for Women · Light Grey · $109
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Brown polar fleece zip jacket with thumb holes for windy ridgelines
This one has a stand collar rather than a hood, so it sits neatly under a shell and keeps your neck covered. The polar fleece looks thick and soft, the cuffs have thumb holes to hold your sleeves over your hands, and the drawstring hem cinches the waist. The cut is loose and cropped, so pair it with high-rise fleece-lined leggings so no gap shows when you reach. Finish with insulated boots, a cream beanie and a small daypack. Add a thin liner glove for extra warmth.
Heavyweight Oversized Hoodie with Thumb Holes for Women · White · $109
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Black scuba-style zip hoodie for a clean, simple trail look
Our black full-zip hoodie has a drawstring hood, two front pockets, a boxy oversized cut and ribbed cuffs, in a thick scuba-style fabric. It does not have thumb holes, so bring gloves. Wear it over a long-sleeve base layer with black trail leggings, ankle-high waterproof boots and tall wool socks. A beanie and a small crossbody or hip bag keep the look tidy. Because it is a full zip, it is easy to open on the uphill and close again when you stop to rest.
Zip Up Oversized Hoodie with Thumb Holes for Women · Black · $109
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Light gray scuba zip-up with big pockets for easy forest loops
This light gray hooded jacket has a smooth, thick scuba-style knit, a loose oversized cut, a drawstring hood, a front zip and two large patch pockets. The photos and title do not show thumb holes, so check the product page before you order. Pair it with charcoal leggings, sturdy trail shoes with warm socks, and a thin base layer underneath. Add a knit headband for your ears and slip a phone and snacks into the pockets. It suits flat, well-marked loops where you stay moving.
Oversized Hoodie with Thumb Holes for Women and Pockets · Black · $99
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Pink waffle-knit hoodie as a cozy mid-layer under a shell
The pink waffle-knit pullover has a hood, a three-button henley placket, ribbed cuffs and a relaxed fit with dropped shoulders. The texture looks soft and the fit is roomy. Wear it as a middle layer under a windproof, waterproof shell, over a thin base layer, with lined hiking pants and insulated boots. Add a headband or beanie and light gloves. It is a good choice for the drive, the trailhead coffee and the first half mile, then stays under your shell on the trail.
Waffle Knit Plus Size Oversized Hoodie for Women · Red · $99
See the hoodieHow to layer a hoodie on a winter trail
Think in three layers. First, a snug base layer that wicks sweat, such as synthetic or merino. Second, your hoodie or fleece for warmth. Third, a shell that blocks wind and wet snow. Cotton-style hoodies can feel damp once you sweat, so unzip or take off layers on climbs instead of waiting to overheat. Pack a spare dry pair of socks, and keep your shell and gloves within easy reach. If the trail is long or the weather is rough, make the shell and boots your priority.
Fit, shipping and sizing before you order
Our hoodies are oversized, so you can fit a base layer underneath, but the exact fit varies by style. Check the size chart on each page and compare it with a sweatshirt you already own. Shipping is free to the US and takes 7 to 14 business days, so order well before your trip. All sales are final, with no returns or exchanges for fit or change of mind. Damaged, defective or wrong items are replaced or refunded within 14 days of delivery.
Want more options? Browse all oversized hoodies.
Questions, answered
Can I wear a hoodie for a winter hike?
Yes, as a warm middle layer. Put a wicking base layer under it and a windproof, waterproof shell over it, because a hoodie on its own will not stop wind or wet snow.
Should I choose a pullover or a zip-up for hiking?
A zip-up is easier to adjust on climbs and rests, since you can open it to release heat. A pullover with a big front pocket is cozy for short, mild walks.
What should I wear on my legs and feet?
Choose lined or thermal leggings or hiking pants, waterproof insulated boots and wool socks. Avoid cotton socks, since they hold moisture and make your feet cold.