Embrace the Chill: How to Make the Most of Your Winter Walks

Winter may bring crisp air and shorter days, but it’s not always about snowy wonderlands. Whether your town sees frequent flurries or you’re strolling under clear, cool-colored skies, this season always brings its own unique magic.

The quieter trails, the cozy promise of a warm home afterward, and the chance to rediscover familiar routes in a fresh light all combine into a perfect call to get outside and get moving. If you’re eager to step out and explore, follow these tips to make the most of every brisk, invigorating step on your winter walks.

Dress for Success

As with any cold weather activity, you’ve got to dress the part. You can start by layering strategically to stay cozy without overheating. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (wool is a great natural choice) to keep sweat at bay. Over that, add a thicker mid-layer for insulation — your favorite fleece or puffy jacket does the trick. Finally, top it all off with a weatherproof shell to ward off wind or stray snowflakes. Keep in mind that breathable fabrics can help prevent you from turning into a walking sauna, so aim for items that are both warm and ventilated. And don’t forget your beanie and gloves!

Map Your Course

Part of the excitement of winter exploring is discovering how even familiar routes transform during the colder months — whether under a blanket of snowfall or formerly dense treelines that are barren outlines of their warmer weather forms. Choose your path with safety and enjoyment in mind. If you’re new to cold-weather hiking, opt for shorter trails closer to home or well-known paths at a local park. If you’re an urban explorer, pick scenic sidewalks that will let you take in the cityscape and winter aesthetics.

Snow or no snow, keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for changing conditions. And just like with any hike, don’t forget to let someone know where you’re heading and when you expect to return — just in case.

Fuel for the Freeze

In cold weather, your body uses extra energy to keep warm, so don’t skimp on the trail snacks and water. A well-stocked daypack is your best ally. Fill a thermos with hot tea or cocoa to sip as you meander around — and pack energizing, easy-to-eat bites like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars.

Staying hydrated is equally crucial. Even when it’s cold, you’re still sweating (though you might not notice it as much), plus the air may be especially dry, so hike like a pro and don’t forget the water or electrolyte drink. 

Leave No Trace (Even in Snow)

Winter landscapes might look pristine, but it’s still important to protect the trails and wildlife. Stay on marked paths, avoid trampling off-route areas that might be more fragile than they appear, and pack out all your garbage — especially any snack wrappers you might find in your pockets. The only thing you should leave behind are your footprints. 

Stop and Savor the Season

It’s easy to slip into power-walk mode when frigid air hits your lungs, but winter nature offers a one-of-a-kind show. Pause occasionally to appreciate things like the gentle crunch of snow underfoot, the glow of winter sunbeams through bare branches, or the unique calm that settles over a winter landscape as the steam from your breath evaporates with each exhale. Even in cities, the cold can give off a dreamy vibe to bustling streets. So, by all means, breathe it in and embrace the chill. Let this slower, more contemplative season reset your pace a bit. 

The Right Footwear Matters

At the end of the day, your footwear can make or break your winter adventure. Ice, slush, or rugged paths require shoes that provide traction, warmth, breathability, and support. That’s where the sustainably-engineered Allbirds Trail Runner SWTs come in. Designed for all kinds of conditions and terrains, these trail-ready, all-season companions strike the perfect balance between rugged durability and cozy comfort. In other words, they’ll keep your strides steady and stable with each step as you take in your personal winter wonderland.

Need another option? The Runner-Up Protects give you a sleek, versatile look combined with features like a wool blended upper with a water-resistant layer to keep feet dry, a rain-repellent outer shield, and an outsole with the extra traction you need to stay upright on and off the trails.

Winter might be chilly, but with the right preparation — and the right footwear — it can be the perfect time to get outside and embrace every frosty moment. So, bundle up, step out, and enjoy the season in all its crisp brilliance. You might just find that winter’s cold snap is the wake-up call your wanderlust has been waiting for. Happy winter exploring!