LOWA's Top 8 Most Useful Items Of Cold Weather Military Gear

Gaiters

Gaiters are fabric guards that cover the gap between your trousers and your walking boots and are an essential piece of cold weather military gear.They wrap around your ankles and calves, hooking onto or over your boots in order to keep you protected from the likes of snow, water, mud and loose debris such as stones. The Berghaus Yeti Gaiters are perfect for military training exercises in the cold. These are full-fronted gaiters made from Gore-Tex® material that feature a front zip with a hook-and-loop storm flap, plus an integrated forefoot strap for a secure fit. 

Cold Weather Military Boots

LOWA Mountain Boot on a white background​Having military boots that are supportive, durable and comfortable is always essential, however cold weather military boots should form an essential part of your cold weather military gear. During the winter, it’s essential that your military boots are waterproof and have thermal properties. One of our best cold weather military boots is the LOWA Mountain Boot. Complete with Gore-tex® lining, these LOWA military boots are 100% waterproof and feature a Vibram® "Tsavo" sole that offers enhanced grip in icy or snowy conditions. The LOWA R-6 Gore-tex® Tactical Boots are another reliable option for a cold weather military boot. Made from full grain leather, these LOWA military boots benefit from a Gore-tex® lining that offers windproof and waterproof protection. A specialist tread design also provides extra stability for when you’re exercising in challenging environments.

LOWA Socks

Another essential item of cold weather military gear that shouldn’t be overlooked is a high performance pair of thermal socks. LOWA socks will support the performance of your cold weather military boots whilst providing your feet with enhanced thermal protection and comfort. Specialist padding supports the ankle and midsoles whilst ventilation zones allow the feet to breathe, keeping you feeling comfortable on your feet. These socks are made from Merino wool which is known for its anti-odour and anti-bacterial properties. 

Smock Liner

Layering is essential for keeping warm during the colder months. That’s why a smock liner is such a useful piece of cold weather military gear for exercising outdoors during the winter. A liner is worn inside your outer layer in order to provide you with an extra layer of insulation. Some smocks liners are also padded in order to provide extra comfort. 

Neck Gaiter, Snood or Buff

Another essential piece of cold weather military gear is a neck gaiter. This will help to keep your neck, face and nose warm in cold weather, providing you with an additional layer of insulation that is soft and comfortable. A neck gaiter is a particularly useful piece of cold weather military gear for when it’s windy, as it will keep chills out. Practical and reliable, this is definitely an essential piece of kit for keeping you comfortable when exercising during the winter. 

Woolie Hat, Beanie or Helmet Liner & Gloves

When exercising outdoors in cold weather, it’s essential to keep your head warm with the right cold weather military gear. A high performance woolie hat should keep your head and ears covered, in order to trap the heat in. It’s also important to wear a hat if you are camping overnight in order to provide you with extra warmth. Gloves are another essential piece of cold weather military gear to wear alongside your beanie. Thermal gloves with a waterproof lining are best for keeping you warm in all weather conditions. 

Lowe Alpine Mountain Cap

Featuring a fleece lining for enhanced warmth, the Lowe Alpine Mountain Cap also benefits from a waterproof outer shell that is particularly well suited to rainy and snowy conditions. Scooped ear flaps and a front cap offer protection from the wind and the cold temperatures. Suitable for use in any weather this is an essential piece of waterproof cold weather military gear to carry alongside your regular watch cap.

Winter Sleeping System

If you’re camping or exercising overnight during the winter then there are a few additional pieces of cold weather military gear that it’s important to be aware of. Aside from setting up in a winter proof tent,poncho or hooped bivi you’ll need a winter sleeping bag and an insulating mat to keep your sleeping bag separated from the cold ground. It’s also important to have a bivy bag to keep yourself protected from the rain.