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If you’ve found yourself shuddering in the cold, wishing you had a time machine to take you back to summer, never fear. With these tips, we hope you’ll feel more confident braving the cold and looking great too. If this is your first winter, or if it’s been a while since you’ve experienced one, remember that no matter how much snow falls from the sky or how many degrees fall from the thermometer (metaphorically speaking), there are plenty of ways to stay warm and fashionable.
Shirt layer: Start with a thin base layer that wicks sweat away from your skin. A long-sleeved polyester or wool running shirt will do the trick.
Your main goal should be to wick away sweat and stay warm in the middle layers. Some running shirts are made of special fabrics that do this, but you can also use a long-sleeved cotton undershirt. Make sure to pack a backup shirt just in case you get soaked. It’s also important to remember that sunburn is still possible even if it’s not very hot outside—so don’t forget your sunscreen!
Jacket layer: Throw a lightweight jacket over your shirt for added warmth and wind protection, then leave it unzipped for easy temperature control.
For many people, the key to winter dressing is layering—starting with a simple top and the right jacket. When temperatures plummet 40 degrees below, your best bet for outdoor activities is a lightweight jacket that offers warmth without bulk. Just make sure it’s wind-resistant—a breeze can chill you to the bone, even if you’re bundled up in all your layers. Look for jackets with windproof fronts, breathable backs and two-way zips; this allows for easy temperature control and lets you release steam when things heat up (from both exercise and body temperature!). Whichever style you choose, make sure that it fits well under your favorite winter coat or parka shell so that it won’t bunch up under additional layers.
The right accessories can mean not having to wear a layer (or three!) on your head while keeping it cozy. If you love wearing hats but don’t want something heavy on your head all the time, then opt for an accessory made of insulating materials such as wool or fleece caps instead of a knit beanie.
Pants layer: Tights or running pants made from a stretchy, insulating fabric are a solid pick for 40-degree weather.
What you wear on your legs depends on how warm it is outside. Start with tights or running pants, made from a stretchy, insulating fabric. As it gets warmer, you can swap out tights for shorts.
If you’re wearing tights, don’t forget to wear underwear under them. A sweaty crotch is never fun, and while the friction of your thighs rubbing together can cause chafing in any weather, the added sweat from warmer temperatures will just make the problem worse.
Shoes layer: Wearing waterproof shoes or boots will keep you completely dry, but if you tend to get sweaty feet, you may want to choose something more breathable so your feet don’t get too cold (and especially not during the chillier parts of your run).
- Wear waterproof shoes or boots to keep yourself completely dry.
- Any breathable shoes will be the best option for you, especially if you tend to get sweaty feet, so your feet don’t get too cold—this is especially important during the chillier parts of your run, when you’re likely to sweat more.
- Don’t go with something heavy like a pair of hiking boots. You need something that’s lightweight and comfortable.
- On the flip side, don’t wear anything too light or delicate. You should be able to take on some puddles without soaking through your sneakers within five minutes.
- A shoe that’s too tight won’t give you enough room to breathe and move comfortably, but if it’s too loose you could trip over yourself while running or walking.
Hat layer: A knit cap is a good option here because you can ball it up and stuff it in your pocket once things start to warm up.
A knit cap is a good option here because you can ball it up and stuff it in your pocket once things start to warm up. Wool or polyester knit caps are the easiest, plus they’ll help hold heat in while keeping the rain off.
Gloves layer: Since your hands are further away from your core than other body parts, they’re more prone to getting chilled quickly. Luckily, a pair of thin gloves will do the trick in 40-degree weather.
If you’re getting dressed for a day of strolling city streets, taking in the sights and sounds of your favorite cultural hub, a pair of thin gloves will do the trick.
Now that you know what to wear in 40 degree weather, it’s time to check out our full guide on how to dress for even colder temperatures!
The temperatures can vary more than 10 degrees depending on whether it’s sunny or cloudy so check the weather forecast before .
I can’t tell you how many people I have met who have traveled to one of the Balearic islands and expected sunshine, only to be met with clouds and rain. In fact, it happened to me too when I first visited Mallorca in February.
Consequently it is worth checking the weather forecast before you start your journey. The temperatures can vary more than 10 degrees depending on whether it’s sunny or cloudy so check the weather forecast before you leave. If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing then take sun cream and a hat because even if the weather is overcast now, there is often a chance that the clouds will disappear and your skin will burn! So make sure you are prepared for all eventualities.
Conclusion
As you’ve learned, 40 degree weather is a weird temperature. Too cold for shorts but too hot for a coat, it’s best to wear layers such as a long-sleeve t-shirt and perhaps a light jacket or sweater. Dressing appropriately for the weather can save you from getting sick and will definitely make you more comfortable in your day to day life. This article will serve as an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn what to wear in 40 degree weather.
