Chill-Proof Your Winter Season
Winter has a way of wrapping the world in quiet beauty—the coolness of the air, the soft crunch of snow underfoot, the delight of curling up indoors as everything outside sparkles. But as wonderful as it is, winter calls for a little extra care: navigating icy roads, shoveling snowy driveways, and bundling up (furry friends included!) against the chill. This month, let’s dive into simple, thoughtful tips for staying safe, warm, and prepared, all while savoring the season’s cozy charm.
Driving Safely on Snowy Roads
Winter mornings often greet us with frost-covered windshields and slick streets, so preparing your car is essential. Start with winter tires—they’re a game-changer on icy roads. Keep a snow scraper, blanket, and emergency kit in your vehicle. And don’t forget to leave extra time for your morning commute. Slow and steady wins the winter driving race!
Creating Cozy (and Economical) Homes
There’s nothing like coming home to a warm, inviting space after a day in the cold—but keeping it cozy doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tips:
Use Draft Stoppers: Prevent cold air from sneaking under doors or windows. Rolled-up towels work in a pinch!
Layer Up Indoors: Wear warm socks, sweaters, and slippers to stay comfortable without cranking up the heat.
Close Off Unused Rooms: Focusing heat on the spaces you use most can help lower your energy bill.
Curtain Strategy: Open curtains during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home, and close them at night to insulate against the chill.
Rethink the Thermostat: Use a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature while you’re sleeping or away from home.
Cozy Textiles: Flannel sheets, throw blankets, and thick rugs add warmth and reduce the temptation to overheat the house.
Tackling Snow Removal
Winter brings a beautiful snowy landscape, but it also comes with a few practical responsibilities, especially if you live in a house. One of the most important tasks is ensuring that your sidewalks are safely cleared of snow and ice. Not only does this help prevent slips and falls, but it’s also a legal requirement in some areas. Be sure to shovel regularly, especially after a snowfall, to keep pathways accessible. Take it easy—shoveling can be strenuous, so be mindful of your body and take breaks when needed. Use a sturdy shovel, wear proper footwear, and consider salting the sidewalk after clearing the snow to avoid ice buildup. Your neighbours (and your back) will thank you!
Dressing the Part
When winter rolls into Canada, it doesn’t tiptoe. It comes full force, and being prepared isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about enjoying the season without feeling like you’ve signed up for a survival challenge. So, whether you’re braving the elements for a commute or embracing winter activities, here’s how to layer up like a pro.
The Coat
Super Warm:
For those bone-chilling days, when even stepping outside feels like a dare, a high-end, super-warm coat is your best friend. These coats, often filled with goose down or synthetic alternatives, can keep you toasty even in a T-shirt. They’re pricey (think $400+), but they’re built to last and deliver serious warmth. The downside? You might find yourself overheating if you’re indoors for long—mall walkers, beware!
Moderately Warm:
If you’re looking for something more affordable, coats from retailers like Winners, The Bay, or even Old Navy will do the trick in most conditions. These are great up to around -20°C (without windchill). To stretch their warmth further, layer strategically. A chunky knit sweater, preferably wool or synthetic, adds insulation.
The Boots
Snow and slush are non-negotiable parts of a Canadian winter, so invest in boots that check three key boxes: temperature rating, traction, and waterproofing.
The Splurge: High-end brands, costing $150-$200, offer excellent durability and warmth. Proper care, like cleaning off road salt and using protective sprays, can make them last years.
Budget-Friendly: Affordable options are out there too. Prioritize waterproof materials and size up to allow for thick socks or thermal insoles. Traction-enhancing products like GripOns can turn basic boots into winter warriors for icy conditions.
Pro tip: Invest in wool socks—they’re like little hugs for your feet.
The Pants
When it’s bitterly cold, denim alone won’t cut it. Enter snow pants. While they may not be the most fashionable choice, they’re a game-changer on frosty days.
For everyday errands, lower-cost options (starting around $25) work well. If you’re skiing, skating, or snowshoeing, consider investing in higher-quality, waterproof pants.
The Accessories
The holy trinity of winter accessories—hat, mittens, and neckwarmer—are non-negotiable.
Hat: Fleece or thermal-lined knits are your go-to for extreme cold. Bonus points for pom-poms, but note they might not fit under your hood.
Mittens: Warmer than gloves, mittens are the budget-friendly choice. For splurge-worthy options, materials like Gore-Tex or merino wool are worth considering.
Neckwarmer: Safer than scarves (especially for kids), a neckwarmer or infinity scarf keeps you cozy without the risk of loose ends getting caught in doors.
Layering Basics
For Indoors:
Canadian winters bring a unique challenge: freezing commutes paired with overheated offices and classrooms. The solution? Layer smartly. Light fabrics like cotton or thin knits are perfect base layers, while sweaters or cardigans provide extra warmth.
For Outdoor Activities:
Thermal long underwear—often called a base layer—is a winter essential. If you’re on a budget, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton waffle knit, which insulate without making you sweat.
Embrace the Cold
Winter in Canada can be intimidating, but the right gear makes all the difference. Whether you’re layering up for a skating adventure, heading to work, or tackling a snowstorm, dressing for the season lets you enjoy its magic—without the frostbite.
Winter Warmth for Your Furry Friends
A cozy sweater or fleece jacket is essential for keeping your pets, especially dogs, warm during the winter months. A waterproof, windproof dog coat or parka will protect them from cold, wet conditions. For small breeds or those with shorter coats, consider adding booties to protect their paws from salt and snow, and always keep an eye on their comfort level during walks.
Pro tip: Choose clothing made from breathable materials to avoid overheating, and make sure your dog is used to wearing layers before venturing out into the winter wonderland.
As we settle into the colder months, there’s so much beauty to be found in the rhythms of winter. Whether it’s the satisfaction of a perfectly cleared driveway, the snug feeling of layering up against the chill, or the pure joy of seeing your dog trotting happily in a little sweater, these small moments make the season feel special. So let’s welcome winter with open arms—and maybe a few extra scarves.
Stay safe and warm out there!
