Body Winterization in Toronto

Beyond the extra inch of blubber I accumulate each year during the holidays, I like to add layers to stay dry and warm during the winter. I don’t like bulky puffy clothing and I really dislike salt stains which in Toronto can be a challenge.

Here are some of my favourite winter products from of last few years.

Arc’Teryx Gothic Hoody. Thin but dense laminated wool hoody that keeps you warm under the thinnest of wind-breaking shells. Hood acts as an excellent lazy man’s scarf. Price paid: too embarrassed to say at an outdoor gear store across from MEC.

Cougar “Conan” Leather Boots. Waterproof, stain-proof, good to 30° below. They’ve kept my feet warm all winter and have yet to succumb to the stains of salt. The higher cut “Corvair” version is available at Sears. Cougar footwear does not appear to have a web site. Price paid: $80 on sale at The Bay.

J.B. Fields Icelandic Socks. These are remarkably soft, warm and affordable considering their very high wool content. Unfortunately I can’t find these anywhere anymore. Price paid: $10 at a Surplus store on Yonge & Wellesley.

Windriver Hoody Dickie? Don’t have an image of this but picked up this neck-up warmer at Mark’s Work Wearhouse. It’s basically a dickie turtleneck with a hood. Keeps neck very warm. Price paid: $15.