Rosy red cheeks, lightly falling snowflakes, and mugs of homemade hot chocolate…
When most people think of winter, I imagine those are some of the first things to come to mind.
Me?
Well, let’s just say the visions dancing through my head tend to lean towards boots caked in slushy manure, a mudroom with mountains of coats and gloves, and perpetual brown puddles on the tile floor… But that’s just life when you live in a climate with heavy-duty winters–
I’ve had a number of you email me and ask what exactly we wear during our subzero winter days, so I’ve decided to break down our winter chore “uniform” today. It’s not exactly stylish (unless you’re a penguin… or a giant marshmallow…) but after spending eleven winters working and surviving here in Wyoming, I’ve figured out some tricks to stay (mostly) warm.
(If you’re curious about our severe Wyoming winters, check out my blizzard preparation post. It has some jaw-dropping pics from our first year here on the homestead. And this short video will give you a glimpse of a ground blizzard. When it comes to snow, Wyoming doesn’t mess around.)
Best Winter Chore Clothes for Homesteaders
Lots of Layers
My least favorite part of winter chores is how long it takes me to get dressed before going outside… However, layers are your friend when it comes to staying warm during barn chores, so it’s worth the extra time it takes to layer up.
I wear hoodies pretty much from September through May (so glamorous, huh? At least it saves me time on clothes shopping…), and they always make up my foundational layer. I prefer heavier Carhartt or Underarmour hoodies, as they tend to be a bit warmer.
Over that I often wear a quilted duck vest (like this one). In the fall or spring this is usually all I need. However, if the wind is really blowing, or it’s the dead of winter, I always add the next item on the list—>
Carhartt Coat
AKA the farmer/rancher uniform. I’m pretty sure every single person I know here in Wyoming owns a variation of the Carhartt work coat. There are a bazillion different styles, and you just can’t go wrong with them. (You can often find generic versions as well– if you don’t want to pay for the label.)
I prefer the kind with the hood, as I usually put up my hoodie’s hood, and then pull the coat’s hood over the top of that. The other handy aspect are:
a) These coats have ample pockets for carrying stuff (just don’t put your eggs in there– it never ends well).
b) The outer material generally resists tearing when you snag it on a barbed wire fence. (I’m not saying it’s impossible to tear them, but they much tougher than shiny ski jacket material)
Insulated Overalls
I don’t wear these every day, but when the weather calls for them, they are seriously the best thing ever. When it’s 20 below and the wind is blowing, you’ll feel like someone is stabbing your legs with a knife while wearing regular jeans. And if you’re doing something especially muddy, they do a wonderful job of protecting your clothes underneath.
While you can get uninsulated coveralls, I recommend investing in the insulated versions, since they are much, much warmer. (That is, unless you want a pair for spring/fall, and another pair for winter. That’s totally cool too). These are the ones I have (I’m not a Carhartt Sales Rep– promise. I just love their stuff!)
I still have the first pair of overalls I bought when I moved to Wyoming, and they are still going strong. Mine are well worn and display a lovely collection of manure stains, blood stains, and cattle tattoo ink from my days as a Vet Tech, but that just adds character, right?
Wildrag/Silk Scarf
I know there are all sorts of cute knit scarves floating around these days, but I will forever be loyal to silk scarves. Also known as “wildrags” by the buckaroo crowd, these are an absolutely necessity from keeping the wind from blowing down your neck. (And they don’t add a lot of extra bulk). I wrap mine around my neck twice and tie it in a rather unceremonious knot, but here’s how to tie it like a real cowboy.
You can grab them in a ton of beautiful colors and patterns. Just make sure you’re getting the 100% silk ones.
A Good Hat
Of course, you can always opt for a beanie or watch cap to keep your head warm during chores, but I’ve never been a huge fan of them (I’m just weird, I guess).
I usually just wear a regular ball cap (mostly to keep my hair out of the way) and then throw my hood up over the top.
My hubby prefers a wool cap like this one— the fold down flap adds extra ear protection if you need it.
Winter Gloves
I have sort of a love/hate relationship with gloves… Warm fingers are definitely a good thing, but I often feel like gloves just get in my way… I like to feel what I’m doing–especially when working with animals.
Here are a few of the options I keep in my glove arsenal:
Basic knit gloves/Roping gloves: Cheap and decent enough during the spring/fall, however, forget about it if it’s really cold. And if you pick up a flake of hay, it’ll stick to the gloves like velcro which is super annoying.
Basic leather work gloves: I like these for digging in the dirt, fencing, or doing any other heavy work that might result in torn skin or splinters. The down side? They aren’t super warm, and if they get wet, your hands will freeeeeeeeze.
Latex dipped knit gloves: My hubby introduced me to these, and I love ’em. They are especially handy if you are doing anything outside that requires getting your hands wet (like draining hoses, etc).
Insulated leather gloves: These are the ones I reach for when I need extreme insulation, or plan to be outside for extended periods of time. They are a bit bulkier than I would like, but it’s worth it.
Muck Boots
Wellies, gumboots, wellingtons, muck-a-lucks, bogs… Regardless of what you call them– tall boots are a homesteader must-have. I’m always sort of bummed in the summer when it get’s too hot to wear my boots, since they are SO handy to pull on when I need to run outside (which is approximately 1.5 billion times per day). Everyone seems to have their favorite brand, but I’ve been super happy with my Bogs so far. They offer more support that the ones I had previously and always keep my toes toasty.
While uninsulated rubber boots abound, I recommend seeking out an insulated boot if you are homesteading in colder climates. The plain rubber ones are fine for rainy days, but will NOT be enough when the snow starts to fly.
Thermal Underwear
Last but not least… if you tend to be a bit more cold-blooded, you’ll probably want to invest in a pair of longjohns or thermal underwear. I generally opt for my overalls when I need extra warmth, but always have a pair of longjohns tucked away in case I need a bit more mobility. (Because insulated coveralls kind of make you feel like a walking marshmallow).
Listen to the Old Fashioned On Purpose podcast episode #54 on How I Learned to Love Winter HERE.
Your turn! What’s your #1 favorite piece of gear for homesteading in the winter?
We do it a smidge different. Instead of a silk neck scarf, my DH goes for a balaclava. It is a hood & neck wrap all-in-one that he can pull up over his face as needed.
He also wears long johns, hooded sweatshirt, insulated coveralls (not bibs, but full coverage), then adds a hooded Carhartt jacket over that! Insulated rubber boots are a MUST in the barn lot and on the tractor! He also wears a pair of tube socks, covered by wool socks, then his insulated rubber boots.
The thing that frustrates me is being unable to find warm layers for the children! Mine are grown now, but it would have been great to find warm long johns for the children!
I hear ya Teresa! It seems like most kids clothes are made for short stints outside and that’s it… My poor kids are usually a mismatched pile of random coats/layers. 😉
Try threadlyte website they have some really good deals on used kids outdoor clothing
For LIGHT rain gear and warmth against the wind I have used what some motorcycle riders use. ” froggtoggs”. They almost feel like paper and you wonder how they could possibly work but they do great. I wear them most of the time when it isn’t raining just for warmth. I rode 100 miles in the rain in Canada and I didn’t get wet. I don’t think they would be good for any kind of heavy duty work.
is this a pitch for carhart?
this stuff is made in child labor sweat shops in 3rd world countrys.
Buy wool long johns for a Norwegian store. 🙂 I live in Norway and really miss some of the American options, but Norway has the wool options down! Buy wool undies, and trade all the polar fleece for a wool sweater! Can usually be found super cheap at a thrift store because Americans don’t value them.
I have had trouble finding any sort of work boots for my men’s size 7EEE feet. If there’s anyone out there like me (!), 1) Wolverine (usually online) carries that size I’ve have had the same ankle-lace-up pair for 4 years now. They’re still solid and are now soft as mocassins. 2) I heard that Boggs WOMEN’s muckboots run wide and have a good warranty. It’s true. These are the first women’s shoe’s I’ve worn since childhood. I love the pull-ons with the slots for your fingers.
I love those Bogs pull-on slots too!
Thanks for the tip on Womens Bogs! I would love to be able to wear a womens boot instead of always ending up with mens to fit my wide foot.
I have trouble with slip on boots because my leg bone is so big. I presently wear rubber shoes.
For wide sized boots try Labonville logging supplies. They are out of New Hampshire and have stores in Maine as well. They do have a web presence too. Check out the catalog you can order online.
I am still wearing a pair I bought on sale 7 years ago. Had a cobbler put new Vibram soles on for 35 bucks a year ago.
Yeah they are an investment but think about how many < 100$ boots you would go thru and still not be quite as happy. And what a waste buying a pair of boots every year or two, that can't be sustainable, PLUS the boots are made here in New Hampshire.
I bought a new pair of Boggs a few weeks ago and they are really wide. I had to take them back for a size smaller than I wear, so if you need wide muck boots, Boggs are probably your answer. My last pair lasted 6 years. And, Boggs are my favorite. I’ve tried them all. I don’t like that Mucks are so tall, but I love Mucks irrigating boots 😉
The new Boggs winter boots are way looser and lighter than the older ones. I’m not sure if that’s good, or bad yet. And, Carhartt makes an insulated women’s winter glove. I live in Central Utah and we get brutal winter weather here too. We get it about 28 hours before you do in Wyoming.
I can’t stand my hands frozen doing chores and the Carhartt insulated winter gloves are amazing if you can find them. This could actually be an advertisement for Carhartt. That’s all I wear on our farm.
I also LOVE Costco’s women’s merino wool trail socks for the winter.
They are the warmest socks ever and every pair wears out in the Spring – it’s weird… The weather warms up and I get holes in all of them at the same time. I think they have a Spring suicide timer in them, but I still LOVE them.
Having and using good gear is so important for surviving cold winters on the homestead!
Thanks for this, as we are recent transplants to WY from TX. I second the Carhartt. I’ve had mine going on 15 years. They are dual purpose too…If you ever hit the slopes, you will find us in working brown. I am wondering about the wildrag. I always wear fleece around my neck…is silk particularly warm?
Yes– it’s surprisingly warm! I get so used to it I feel naked if I accidentally go outside without it. 😉
Once you go silk you’ll never go back!! We have settled for some satin wild rags, but the silk are so nice and warm!?? Our whole family lives in wild rags/scarves!!
Live in southern Saskatchewan, but still looking for a boot that will stand up to us! We can’t get a muckboot to last even barely a season for us anymore.
My favorite thing to wear on my bottom half when it is windy but not too snowy is a pair of women hosiery under my jeans, jeans and then a pair of water proof pants. The best kind are available anywhere they sell livestock show equipment. Cattle fitters wear them a lot. Learned this from a woman I worked with in NE on a cattle ranch in the dead of winter. Also, ditto on the wild rag. Silk holds in the heat and isn’t as breathable as fleece or anything knitted.
Oooh— smart idea Aubrey!!
Personally, I am a fan of fleece lined leggings under my insulated coveralls (the only time I see leggings as pants). Nice and toasty without the bulk. Freedom of movement is paramount. 😉
Same here. Love my fleece leggings!
So were do you find fleece leggings? I love my carhart’s insulated overalls but sometimes wear my fleece lined jeans but they’re just as bulky
Great post – I like Carhartt too – Schmidt from Tractor Supply is another good brand. I found these amazing gloves this year, Rubber on the whole outside with the exception of the wrist and insulated inside. They’re fantastic – no more wet hands when breaking ice or filling water. I also like Twisted X boots because they’re wider in the toe and super comfy year round. It’s a good work boot allowing me to work a good 8 hours all day outside. We have to be careful for snakes down south and a snake bight would go right through rubber. Our daughter just came home from Basic training and their under garments are fantastic. Doesn’t get that cold down here and when it does it doesn’t last but a week here in there in the Winter. I’m ready for Spring!
Carole
Do you know the brand for the rubber/insulated gloves and where to purchase on-line? Would love to get a pair or two!
I don’t have a brand name but I got them at Tractor Supply. They’re dark gray and pink at the wrist and pink fleece inside. I love them! I can’t stand wet gloves when I’m in the middle of chores so they’ve been a blessing.
Carole
I have several pairs of these gloves also. Best thing to wear when chipping ice out of waterers in winter. ??
I love my insulated coveralls! Usually I roll out of bed and straight out to the barn so I want to be warm! If it’s really cold I like wearing leggings under my jeans then the coveralls on top. I feel like a sausage but I’ll take that over being cold.
I hear you about the gloves. I’m always pulling them off when I’m trying to do something. And then I usually end up dropping them in the snow ????.
all those ???? should have been -_- just to clarify 🙂
I have had trouble with gloves too. I want to be able to feel things and bend my fingers. Gloves can be so cumbersome. I found some similar to these http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008BF5EKM at Wal-Mart for $15. They are thin, but still fairly warm, fleece lined. But the outside is a smooth fabric so they hay doesn’t stick to them. I love them. I have had mine going on two years and they are just starting to wear out.
Haha! I laughed when you said rosy cheeks and gently falling snow. I live in Buffalo and the weahe here is INSANE. You may or may not have hear of the 8-9′ of snow we got IN 2 DAYS. I didnt get as much (only 2′). But the wind here is powerful and bites. Also, we had a 50 degree day only to have serious flurrie in the night/next morning. Being in the city, you’d think i’d have mildy-normal-ish weather. Haha stay warm!
PS: The bogs are a LIFESAVER, totally worth it
Oh wow– I think you definitely have us beat in the snow fall department!
I am a fan of Berne women’s insulated overalls. They carry them in tall, average and short. i find them more comfortable than my old, worn out Carhartt’s.
Berne has gloves that I like too.
We rock about the same setup, but we’ve made a couple improvements to fit our needs in northeastern North Dakota.
1. Gloves: We layer these as well for versatility and warmth. First, we wear Atlas Nitrile Tough Gloves. These fit like a second skin so you can do pretty much everything you need to without taking them off. (I wear them year round to prevent blisters and slivers.) They are also warmer than latex or rubber gloves in our opinion. Then over these we wear fold over flip mitts. (Again, Carhartt makes an awesome version of these that last longer than others). When you need your fingers, flip the mitt back and when you’re done, flip it again to keep those digits toasty.
2. Boots: Though Muck boots are great for quick tasks, there are some days where muck boots still aren’t warm enough. This is when we break out our Schnee’s. These boots have the rubber bottoms but are better insulated. Even the leather uppers don’t leak when wading. We love them so much, my husband alone has 3 pairs! And when the rubber bottoms wear out, just send them back for replacement and they’re returned looking good as new.
3. While overalls have their place, insulated coveralls are awesome and much better some days!
I reallllly like the idea of the nitrile gloves– will have to see if I can find some of those!
We get them on Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Glove-370BBK-Nitrile-Gloves/dp/B0035UWIAW/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1420666993&sr=8-5&keywords=atlas+nitrile+gloves
They come in a 12 pack, but we use them ALL the time. My husband is a carpenter and he uses them at work a lot, so we go through them fairly quick. I have a couple pairs set aside he can’t use and destroy.
You can get those gloves at Walmart too in the pharmacy area…
Great tips also!! I’m glad you mentioned the Atlas nitrile layer…I’d have forgotten! My hubby was a scuba diver though, so I’m sure it would have come up!
We live in south western VA and it can get pretty cold here and often lots of snow and ice (but nothing to Wy!). My husband got new Muck boots last year for Cmas, and a new Carhartt Sherpa lined coat this year. He loves getting new ones to replace worn out ones. I love that they last so long. Next year will be the insulated overalls 😉
Great article! I am from Colorado, so I can totally relate. Our homestead is in the mountains of NC, noting like chores in single digits with humidity. I found the ultimate layer for the humid cold. My great aunt always talked about Cuddlduds. So, when I saw them at Walmart this winter I got a set for me and my daughter from the hosiery section. They are spandex fleece and amazing, under $10! The wind will penetrate them, so they are a base layer, or on a moderate day, under a skirt or alone around the house! I hopped online and ordered three more sets because you just can’t find great winter gear here. Love the silk scarves, I always wondered what my cowboy granpa’s was made out of. Happy winter, single digits here! Please send snow!
I’ve never heard of those–will have to check them out!
Most of us in Florida came from some where else. Our last year in Ohio gave us weather where -19F was warm! I wear my padded overalls when I have early morning gate duty at our Kennel Club’s dog shows in Brooksville. When your blood is used to 40 degree nights and 70-80 degree days, 28 feels like -34!
Yes– it’s all relative isn’t it? 😉
I live in North Florida-but originally lived for many years in upstate NY. Your suggestions are great.
If you want a good laugh, tonight temperatures will drop down into the thirties here. If you go outside you will see native Floridians dressed in heavy down parkas, hoods, boots and clothing similar to what you need to wear. Coming from NY, it is so funny to see.
Isn’t it funny how temperature is relative? Kinda like how us Wyomingites think 20 degrees is “warm” after a week’s worth of subzero weather!
Greets from curaçao,where work clothes are T-shirt and shorts,year round.
Wow! I can’t imagine… 😉
Do you have a recommendation for kids work gloves? My 3 year old boys love to help us with wood for our wood burner but I haven’t been able to find any that is small enough besides winter weight snow mittens which don’t work since the basically make it impossible for them to grip the logs they want to carry.
I wish I did… So far we’ve just been using knit gloves when my kiddos go outside, or regular snow gloves, but they aren’t my favorite…
Kinkos makes some kids gloves that are more “work” style – although not as warm. We’ve gotten some nice leather ones that fit my 5-8 year olds. I love Kinkos gloves for adults too! I’ve gotten them at stores like Bomgaars or Runnings or other local farm/ranch supply stores.
I remember going to Canada ( Iam from MT) and seeing some awesome children’s gloves and mittens up there- might be a place to look- maybe a google search?
I found some leather ones on Amazon that fits my 4 year old
Tractor supply has the CE Schmidt brand. They have a kids size warm glove. Great success for us in North Central Iowa.
Try wool mittens. Mittens, can make it hard to grab things but kids usually don’t mind. Fleece on the inside for comfort and wool on the outside make them warm and dry.
Buffs! Check them out. They cover your nose and mouth and ears besides your neck. You can get them in different fabric weights and any color. We don’t live on a ranch, but spend a lot of time outside year round in Minnesota and Colorado. Fishermen use them to keep the sun off their necks. Great warm up layer!
Oooh…. those sound great!
The Muck Boot brand in Arctic Pro style is our our choice for my Type 1 diabetic hubby. He can wear wool socks in them and unless he’s cranked the heat or worn them in the house, his feet stay warm and dry. Any brand of outerwear that is covered in either heavy cloth or canvas, long johns under jeans for warmer days or insulated pants from Marks Workware House (windriver brand) in hubby’s case, insulated bib coveralls for colder days and toques (beanies?) under hoods on heavy jackets. My husband wears a home-made wool scarf over his face when he needs to (the wool stays warm when wet from his breath) and I wear a homemade scarf/ neck warmer with a front flap to keep my upper chest warm. Leather covered mittens with removable wool/acrylic liners (also home made) complete the outfits. We walk like ducks, but we’re warm!
I can totally relate to the duck-walk… it’s worth it, though. 🙂
I am always cold. Ok, later part of July and almost all of August I’m usually not cold.
We are new to homsteading and all this stuff to do outside in the “no matter how cold it is” weather is a bit of an adjustment.
For Christmas my guys gave me a Mad Bomber hat from Cabelas. It is my favorite thing. My next favorite thing are my Boggs. Other than that I just layer.
Yes– it can be an adjustment for sure!
We are in Colorado, and not yet homesteading…but I’m loving all the tips and tricks!
The Mad Bomber hats are great. I have a fur lined version that I wear on our worst snowy and blowy days. With lake effect snow here in sw Michigan, it can get pretty crazy outside!
Ah, winter weather! The trick is to dress warmly and still be able to move! I recently won a silk scarf from a gal who hand dyes them (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wild-Rags-By-Katy/486927138116564) and they are AWESOME! So I usually have that scarf on, but any warm scarf is key to keeping warm. Then I usually have 3-4 layers starting with a t-shirt and long sleeved shirt of some kind. I agree that Carhart hoodies are a good idea. Then a chore coat, which is usually whatever was left by the door! I did invest in a pair of fleece lined long johns, well worth the money for those cold days. Coveralls hurt my shoulders, so I opt for flannel or fleece lined jeans. I have a pair of woman’s bogs. They are pretty girly looking, but my ENTIRE family has the black ones. So when we all get together, no one can tell them apart. So I had to differentiate! Whatever you may be doing outside, stay warm! It’s easier to take layers off, than wish you had more!
Those wildrags are AWESOME!
Have you tried Filson? Full disclosure: I work for them. But their outwear is pretty indestructible and their wool is nice and insulating.
Thankfully, Seattle is never as cold and howling as Wyoming! Silk is a great insulator, though, so wildrags sound excellent.
I agree, Filson has great clothes! I have several wool sweaters and a Mackinaw cruiser. The only drawback is the cost! Man, you guys are expensive. Luckily there is ebay where you can buy Filson stuff at a small discount.
It’s true- it’s an investment! I think the Packer Coat is the warmest thing we have, but I’m glad you’ve got a Mackinaw Cruiser for layering, at least. 😀
I don’t have any Filson gear yet, but LOVE their stuff! It’s on my wish list. 🙂
I have silk long johns that I have had for years…just wash them in the machine on gentle. I am 5’10 so I buy the men’s medium sizes. Work great…thinner under good clothes. The are so soft and warm. I couldn’t live without them…the only problem…I need to replace a couple of pieces and the prices have doubled since I last bought them…uggggh. I seem to remember that someone makes silk glove liners…if so I really need some of them. My hands get cold faster than anything besides my toes…I wear Uggs on my feet as they seem to be the only thing that keeps my feet warm.
Try “Winter Silks” for glove liners.
Perfect timing for this post it is a lovely -25 here in North East Montana and I just brought home our first family milk cow this weekend. Great timing I know! Thankfully she just recently calved and we will give her a couple weeks off to adjust before we jump in. I am a wild rag lover too! My husbands rule of thumb on long underwear is on on Labor Day and off on Memorial day no exceptions and I’m following suit with my Wild Rags. I wear them in the barn yard, to town and to work. Thankfully I have a friend who makes them so I can change it up 🙂
I also struggle with the gloves my husband gets after me for forgetting them at times. I just can’t get much done in them. Currently I’m trying just plain thin cotton gloves inside of big leather insulated mittens this seems to keep me warm and I can take my hand out to do what I need and then get warm again quick.
Stay warm everyone and hope this passes quickly!!
I like your double glove idea Bernice!
My favorite cold weather ‘must have’ is a Sorel boot. They make them for men, women and kids and have some rather stylish ones for a trip to town. I lived in Wisconsin for 50 years and almost anyone with any sense at all would pack them in the car if not wearing them ( in case of emergency or car breakdown)
They are leather upper, rubber bottoms and feet, with a thick felt liner inside that is removable and somewhat washable. They last forever but can get a tad heavy. By spring your feet have adjusted to the weight, but no cold feet.
I’ve had Sorels in the past! They are awesome!
Ditto on the Carhartts! Did you know that if the zipper ever breaks or wears out that Carhartt will replace the zipper for you. We usually wear the material out before the zipper but one time the zipper separated and they replaced it just for the cost to have it shipped to them. Wouldn’t buy anything else!
Whoa– I didn’t know that! Cool!
Does anyone know where to get a Carhart or other brand coat that would be good for working in the winter, only I don’t wear pants, only skirts? I am thinking along the lines of something like an Australian Herders Coat. Like what Dr. Mike wore on “Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman”. I want to stay warm, but don’t want to dress like a man. I am knitting what I call an underskirt, it will be worn under the slip next to my fleece lined pantyhose.
Patagonia makes long coats – they’re pricey but I hear they’re worth every penny. I’m a Carhartt girl, and also a skirts and dresses gal but I do wear sweatpants underneath when it’s really cold. I’ve also been considering a pair of fleece lined jeans to wear under my skirts on the really, really cold and windy days… they look sooo warm!
Thank you Lindsey, for your reply. I will have to check them out.
Eddie Bauer
The water- and wind-resistant Ultralight 850 long down coat for women keeps you warm even when it’s 30 below outside. The length and attached hood add protection against wind while the 850-fill insulation allows for a slimmer profile.
https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/78728?page=ultralight-850-down-coat-long
Not a farmer or rancher but climbed mtns and hunted in eastern Oregon. Wool and silk are great for holding heat and wicking perspiration away from your skin. Thompsons use to sell and maybe still do…silk long john style underwear…We use to have Orlon which wicked like wool but can’t find anymore. All these wick well. When climbing and even hiking I learned to wear layer. Also like your boots. We use to wear a rubber boot with a zipper from Sears (eons ago) with mom’s thick home made socks…boots were big enough to wiggle toes. Never had cold feet. Layering is diffinitely the answer to staying warm but you also want to stay dry. And they have never made warm and dry items for kidlets, so sad because they do want to help.
Want to congratulate you all ….farming and ranching is hard but rewarding. Blessings.
We are in Colorado, and not yet homesteading…but I’m loving all the tips and tricks!
Is there a viable alternative to wool? I have an allergy or intolerance to it.
I’m a horse trainer, and can’t actually ride in carharts, unfortunately, since they are so warm. (Western saddles must allow more space for cowboys to fit, because my dressage and jumping saddles sure don’t.) Instead, I ride with fleece liners under my jeans, tall insulated boots, and an Australian style leather riding coat that is waterproof and splits down the back to allow the two sides to fall over either side of my saddle and is long enough to reach to my calves. I especially love it because it protects my saddles from any inclement weather! I’ve also just discovered battery operated heated vests, which might be the best thing ever.
Anyone who has some of the newer Milwaukee tool can use the #12 battery in their jacket and hoody ( http://www.homedepot.com/b/Search/N-5yc1vZc3vl/Ntk-Extended/Ntt-milwaukee%2Bjacket?Ntx=mode+matchpartialmax&NCNI-5) …got one for my significant other…he works construction and rides a motorcycle…got him the hoody. They had them at HD this year…was looking for them last year but now they have them. He loves hoodies so that’s what I got him. Will be interested to see how it works for him. He has been in FL for a couple of months on a project…will be back next week and it’s in the mid 20’s in the daytime here in mid VA.
Oh boy… don’t tell my hubby. He’ll definitely want one of those!
Glad to hear I’m not the only one who is sad when its too hot to wear much boots; they are so easy to slip on and off. I love wearing my Bogs and the pull up slots are the Bomb!!!
Amen girlfriend!
Have you found any socks that work well with the bogs? During the winter I’m lucky if my socks last 2 weeks before the heel has a hole in it! Drives me nuts!
I think the wind chill hear never got above -30 today in my part of South Dakota,so this is great timing for this post. 🙂
You aren’t kidding with all the layers! Sometimes I even swap out the thermal underwear for big fleece sweat pants under my jeans…under my insulated coveralls.
You should check out Ninja Ice gloves sometime.They aren’t as warm as the big insulated leather gloves, but they are pretty good for those times when i need to be able to take apart a water fountain, use a pliers, run a head gate, administer injections,and all those little things that I just can’t seem to do with giant, puffy glove fingers!
Oooh, those Ninja gloves sound fabulous!
My favorite cold weather gear is definitely Carhart. My hubby bought a set of insulated bibs and coat as a Christmas gift for me a few years ago. Don’t know how I lived without them! My only complaint is limited movement. I think I know how the astronauts felt walking on the moon. Our firewood room is in the basement and I have to come in from outside after loading the wood cart so I can catch and stack the the wood as my husband hands it in through the window/chute. Going down the stairs is a chore, but going back up feels like I’m wading upstream through a river of cement. That’s the hardest part of bringing in firewood. Last year we had a lot of snow and we decided to make snow angels. Big mistake! I thought we were going to have to wait for a neighbor to see us lying in the middle of the yard and call for a crane to come pick us up! Now I know what a turtle must go through trying to turn himself back over if he ever lands upside down.
Oh man– I can totally relate to the astronaut comment! Hehe
This is a great list! It’s pretty cold here in VA this week, and my husband has been loving his new pair of underarmor long johns. I think I am going to need to invest in some for myself soon! I always wear my work gloves, a beanie hat, and a wool scarf when it’s cold out, plus a couple of jackets.
I’m not homesteading YET, but I *am* Canadian and I’ve worked as a barn hand, so I think I’m qualified. 😉 My absolute can’t-live-without-it piece of cold-weather gear is also the simplest: Wool socks. These days, they have to be hand-knit (good news is I can make them myself).
But here’s the trick: I can’t wear them by themselves, or I spend the morning scratching my ankles (I’m a knitter and I’m sensitive to wool…it’s my burden! haha), so I always wear a pair of thin cotton socks underneath. This combination will keep my toes warm for a few hours, even in the coldest weather, so long as I’m wearing waterproof boots, and keeping my toes warm goes a long way towards keeping the rest of me warm.
(wow, run-on sentence much? lol)
I agree wearing 2 pairs of socks helps keep the heat in.
Smart!
There is a yarn I have been wanting to try, from Knit Picks (online). It is a silk-alpaca-wool kind of blend. Anything with wool and silk should be nice and warm. I am still trying to figure out the best way to get mittens knit double-layer. I wear silk gloves under the wool mittens and socks, unless the wool has an exceptionally soft hand feel.
My carhartt jacket is my standard winter go-to on our little place in North Idaho. However, around here, they call the stains “patina”. You gotta have some patina on your carhartt to be taken seriously 😉
Absolutely! A Carhart without stains is not a real Carhart according to my brother 🙂
LOL– I love that! And yes, someone sporting all new shiny Carhartt gear is always a little suspicious. Hehe 😉
I had to laugh at your comment about not being a Carhartt rep. My husband came out of the bitter cold the other night and proclaimed that he was just buying Carhartt everything from here on out because it’s so warm. He has a one piece coverall suit and jacket and I have the bib overalls and jacket and it’s some of the best money we’ve spent! I’m always cold and but I’ve never been cold in my Carhartts. Our local feed store runs a sale every November and watch Cabela’s, my mother-in-law scored my husband’s jacket for 50% off! My husband also has some of their socks, which he loves. When I was picking up some for my father-in-law, a fellow shopper at the feed store said he only wears Carhartt socks because not only are they warm, but they’re durable. He estimated he’d been wearing some pairs for over 10 years!
My husband also loves his Baffin tractor boots. They’re not insulated, but with the Carhartt socks, he says his feet don’t get cold. They’re a little cheaper than a lot of the others (about $50 on Amazon) and seem equally durable.
I love my Patagonia pull-over fleeces. If you watch Backcountry.com in the summer, they’ll put them on sale for 40-60% off depending on colors and size. They are super warm (again I’m always cold, but rarely in my fleece), and thin, so they don’t add bulk. They’re great for around the house and as a base layer.
But in general, I always look forward to spring when it doesn’t take me a half hour just to get dressed to go take care of everyone.
I agree entirely Morgan!! That’s one of my favorite parts of spring–not having the tedious ritual of suiting up to go outside!
I finally invested in a Carhartt last fall and I love it. Of course PA isn’t often as cold as WY but it’s not been too warm here lately! My typical winter barn outfit is a really ugly but really warm flannel dress I found at a thrift shop a few years ago, sweatpants underneath, a hoodie over top, and my Carhartt. This year I got a pair of Carhartt high-dexterity gloves and I’m pretty happy with them – they keep my hands warm enough as long as I don’t get them wet but I feel liike I can still work with them on. Now if I could only find a way to keep my nose warm without my glasses fogging up, I’d be all set!
Oh, and my thick rubber boots, of cous
Yeah… foggy glasses are definitely a problem!
i use an off brand of the cathartt jacket or my coardarod duster to stay warm. For May base I wear long john bottoms and blue jeans. As for gloves I wear them for warmth but have to take them off to work.
I was born and raised in San Diego and didn’t even know what Carhartt or Muck Boots even were. Three years ago I got engaged and moved up to my fiances ranch in South Dakota about 50 miles north of Rapid city on the PRAIRIE……and let me tell you the second the temperature dropped to FREEZING I traded in my cute flip flops and my cute light “jacket”(more like a very overpriced long sleeve shirt) for my bogs (aka my BFF) and bibs. I learned that its not so much a fashion show anymore and more like whats going to keep you warm! I have learned to love it out here and wouldn’t trade it for the year round 60 degree weather (maybe I would LOL).
LOL! Yes!! Definitely not a fashion show– it’s all about function, huh?
for silk long johns try the Sportsmanship Guide catalog or website. We have recently become fans of Duluth Trading Company for their lined pants. Fleece and flannel!
We have a small farm in North Central Ohio. The people here complain like crazy about the winter but I love it. I dislike our normal January thaw (that means mud to those of us on farms) and I hate the idea of mowing after Nov 1 (which we sometimes have to do). I love the anticipation and new life of spring, the pace and harvest of summer, the preparation of fall, and the quietness and hibernation of winter. Bring it all on.
I have found Carhart coats/jackets to be too stiff for me. I do love their overalls though. My favorite thing for the fall/spring are flannel lined jeans. LOVE THEM! I have found a pair of flannel lined leggings or thermal underwear are sometimes enough under my flannel jeans to keep me warm for the majority of our pathetic winters around here 🙂
Another thing I can’t live without? GOOD socks. Socks that won’t give me blisters or fall down inside my boots. I have very narrow feet and the best ones I’ve found for me are boys socks from TSC. The quality and toughness of boys/mens clothing far surpasses womens/girls clothing. Boys socks are my go-to for dry feet, no blisters, tough, thick, and good elastic.
Yeah… there’s nothing worse than cold toes, huh?!
I am the BIGGEST baby in the world. I can’t even believe I ever mentioned “cold” here in the toasty warm 2 degrees above zero world of Kentucky! -30 degrees….. You are a champ. I thought I was milking a cow in the cold – you win. 🙂
Good warm Wyoming morning, we woke up to a balmy 31 this morning. I like what you had to say about dresssing for the cold. As a native of Wyoming this is a very good for the new people to the wind and cold. My poor wife has been learning about the fun of winter chores for the pass 9 years, lol. I’ll add a couple things that I grew up learning from years of chores and working in the patch. One, thin socks then good heavy wool socks over them. But with that said use lotion on your feet every morning. Two, one word, Gators. If I am going to be out cutting wood, moving hay, walking thru deep snow, and so on, I’ll have mine gators on. For me if I will overheat when doing the fun stuff. And lastly, thanks to Tiff, cotton sucks. Cotton hold moisture and freezes like a rock which pulls heat from your body. Wool and the new synthetic clothing is so much better for wicking the moisture. I how this will help out on the next cold snap.
Yes– I agree– a 31 degree day is downright balmy when you live in WY!
It’s blizzarding as I type here in southeastern Montana and we’re expecting a COLD Artctic snap. Your post is so timely. We’ve been ranching here for 35 years and some of our favorite cold weather clothes are:
Darn Tough Wool socks.
Carhart Coats & insulated pants (not bibs)– with the zippers on the legs.
I like Woolrich wool pants (gray with red stripe) to pull over my jeans. I’ve had them all these years and there’s nothing warmer. I don’t like bib-overalls.
Just found a pair of Alyeska Wool gloves (by Kinco) at the feed store. Love them! But I generally wear lined leather mittens because my hands freeze in gloves in really cold weather. Got to keep the fingers together to stay warm.
I wear Boggs, but I don’t think they keep my feet as warm as I’d like. If I put a wool insole in the bottom, it helps.
I always have a silk scarf or two in my pocket, but I’m really liking the Buff. I can pull it over my neck/head if I want to. They make a merino wool one!
Thanks for the tips!
Yup– you know EXACTLY what I’m talking about! 😉
One more good thing — Burton Snowboarding mittens. My kids got me a pair last year for work. They are waterproof and warm and light weight. Love ’em.
Great idea for sure!
This is a serious question : why would you choose to live where it is so inhospitable? As someone who does not like winter just getting from house to vehicle in Kansas is tough. But to have to work out in it would send me into a deep depression. I have always wondered how this could be a choice for someone.
I love this question, Carla! It’s a very valid one, and a topic I’ve pondered a lot myself. I’m planning on answering it in an upcoming blog post, so stay tuned!
wondering if anyone out there could help me … i am a very tiny bag-o-bones … with very long legs … trying to find jeans that fit has been a nightmare (other than designer jeans that cost a fortune & are NOT suited for a country gal) any suggestions … the smallest size of carhart’s is like a mile too big. would appreciate any suggestions. thanks so much … country gal from north idaho.
Hey there– have you tried Wranglers? (the old-school kind– 13MWZ) I used to wear them– they are cheap and you can usually ask local stores to order the TALL versions. And slim fit is pretty slim. Plus, they are tough! You just have to wash them first– they are like cardboard when you first buy them. But I wore them for years and years.
I had a funny to share. I read this post today on my phone and when the intro said “This is what I wear…” and I scrolled down, the pictures were of high healed boots with the open toe. I really had to do a double take….
Bless you for living where you are and doing what you do.
Merry Christmas
Oh goodness…. Sometimes those ad placements aren’t ideal, ha!
Anyone know where to find leather work gloves that fit women’s hands well? I have average sized hands for a woman, but it seems like the fingers are too long in every pair I’ve tried on (which kills dexterity)!
Hmmm… I don’t have ideas for you, unfortunately! I usually just suffer through the ill-fitting ones. :/
I swore this summer that I would be in any advertisement for Carhartt free of charge, because they are so awesome. My winter chores are light, we only have 5 cutie goats and some chickens, but in the summer I make a new ‘pasture’ for the goats every day. Which is to say, I determinedly ram panel fencing through acres of wild rose and poison ivy. I could walk through a rose bush with my double layer Carhartt pants and not get scratched or even stick…I know this because I have…in this way I survive having the goats rehabilitate our land. And I only get poison ivy when I just can’t put gloves on in intense humid heat one more time. Also, because I know some of you are into deep-mulch gardens, at night and all winter their pen is 10 panels of dog kennel fencing, their home a trailer. Instead of cleaning out their pen in spring I just move it. All the ‘wasted’ hay is layered densely, 6-8″, with their manure and urine. I wouldn’t plant carrots in it, but corn and melons and squashes love it without being exactly in it. And the intense web of poison ivy vines, roots and shoots below is totally suffocated while the soil conditions are rapidly shifted.
I have 3 homeschooling kids and we are outside all winter here in NY, polarn o. pyret is the best winter and rain gear for kids I have ever seen, made in Sweden. Its a little pricey compared to the flimsy stuff, but well worth not having to come in just when you’re having fun, and is durable enough for double hand me downs and on to someone else. Ours don’t look pretty for resale, but homesteading and pretty clothing just don’t align.
You’re right about the homesteading and pretty clothing. 😉 I look like a homeless person most of time, ha!
Let me clarify, the outerwear from Polarn o. Pyret is awesome. I cannot speak for the clothing, outerwear is the only thing I buy new.
Didnt read all of the comments, so dont know if this was mentioned or not, as far as Carhart is concerned, I am just as happy with all the insulated coveralls, or bibs, only problem I find with any of them, is, they never fit right, all the brands I find in the stores , never fit, if I find a pair that fit me in the chest and waist, they are wat to long, and I have to roll them up about a foot, and that isnt good, as the material under neath isnt tough enough, and one other thing that I have to have, is foot warmers, as my feet get cold, and the foor warmers and hand warmers are the only thing that I can use to keep my feet warm, I have tried every thing else, and that is the only thing I can use, that works. Merry Christmas to all.
That’s a bummer about the Carhartt fit! I wonder if another brand would be better for you. And agree about the foot warmers!
Great tips and info! I never thought of the silk scarf before….I’ll definitely be trying that one.
Oh, the eggs in the coat pockets. You’re right Jill, it never turns out well. Trust me! Every single time I do it and it goes wrong, I swear never to do it again….until next time. Maybe someday I will learn. Stay warm!
You’re gonna love the scarves! 🙂
Great post! We’re in Casper and experiencing our first winter of doing chores (hubby grew up here, I’ve been here for 8 years). My one question for you is this: what do you do when you’re pregnant?? My hubby is wonderful and most of the time does the chores while I stay inside, but he has to travel for work so sometimes it’s all up to me… I’m only 10.5 weeks, and already having a hard time squeezing into the warm layers I normally wear.
Congrats! And yes, that’s a tough one. I end up wearing a lot of baggy sweatshirts and coats. Not super cute, but you do what you gotta do. And yeah, the insulted overalls don’t work very well in the last few months, which is a serious bummer!
Good post. I also work outside and have found some of these items helpful. Boot dryer (also used for gloves), two pairs of gloves, a thin inner and a lined outer, if the weather is really bad and windy, I put on the duster over a vest. I have found lined jeans to be a life saver.
The worst part of all this is getting all dressed up and then mother nature calls. Ha, ha.
Hello from your southern neighbor. Pretty much the way I dress for winter chores but I like neck gators and a fleece cap with drop down ear flaps. I use a 4-wheeler to get to the barn and the gator keeps the cold wind from blowing down the front of me. Nothing will chill you down like cold air blowing down your chest.
girl you hit my heart, your attire sounds just like mine, and the brands you use are the same I invest in. I have even dress my kiddos in the same stuff, they are doing chores and facing the elements just like us. I am sure winter out do ours, we are from Michigan, the S.W. part, but lake effect and the winds off that water BRRRR. But I have a question, very interested in those scarves. Could you send me a link to the best place to purchase those. I am intrigued.
Great post! I used to work construction in Chicago land area and working outside in -20 wind chill and snowing side ways was not fun. Long john’s is a must, flannel lined Carhart jeans, thick hoodie. My preferred boots a Timberland and heavy winter jacket was Zero Zone (just like Carhart less money).
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Some how I never saw this post back in 2015.
I wear long underwear all the time. We live in PA & I grew up in Indiana… not particularly cold climates! But, I must have poor circulation because I am ALWAYS cold. (I have no idea how I survived my time in ND. Brrr!) În fact, I have already busted out the long underwear in November. I have no shame.
I have an arsenal of long underwear- everything from thin silk tops and bottoms to heavy fleece long underwear that I have to keep a special pair of pants an extra size bigger just so I can wear them! ? If there is a long underwear brand, I have worn them. And honestly, most of them have their place!
I have found that my appreciation of winter skyrocketed after I invested in the proper clothing. (And, bonus! I can just run around in my long Johns inside whenever I get too hot for pants. Haha)
You might want to look up Warming Recipes using your essential oils. Might keep your hands or body warmer.
My favorite item is my insulated jeans or fleece/flannel lined jeans. They are not too hot for in the house, but prevent the cold wind and denim from hitting my legs. I buy mine at Menards, just like a Lowe’s or Home Depot, but not nation wide, yet. The carry Old Mill brand which also makes a similar to Carhartt coats and bibs.
Jill, What brand of wool hat is it that your hubby wears?
“Hubby’s” hat is a Stormy Kromer, by the Stormy Kromer Mfg. Co. It’s been around for over one hundred years.
Our wonderful U.S. Gov’t Surplus division sells cloth (usually cotton, but wool is available) glove liners through a variety of private catalogs such as S.G., which work very well. Any form of a ‘plastic’ glove may hold moisture … which can eventually chill your hands.
We tend to buy our Carhartt ‘barn coats’ about a size larger, if we have a choice. A little trapped air makes you feel warmer, and you can move around better.
“Greenies” from Johnson Woolen Mills are the pants of choice for many old-time Vermonters. I’m not sure if the woolen mill is still around … I bought my last pair over thirty years ago.
“Greenies” from Johnson Woolen Mills https://johnsonwoolenmills.com/product/green-wool-pants/
A good, new website for tools that help homesteaders is HerrickKimball’sCabinetRefacingTools, among other tools. He’s a fantastic garden blogger; like Jill!
this is going to be our first winter on a small farm in central montana. we had our first blizzard in mid-september and i still don’t have my winter chore clothes figured out.
i’ve looked at the women’s carhartt insulated bibs, but i really really want WOMEN’S coveralls, heavily insulated, with an attached HOOD. why does this not exist?
the idea for me is that if i look out the window from bed and see an emergency out there, i can jump into my coveralls, still in my nightgown, and dash out the door. i have no patience for layers.
i ended up ordering today an insulated coverall made by refrigiware, an old company. in some of the reviews people said they’ve owned pairs for 40 years and only had to get new ones because they put on weight. it’s unisex sized, so keeping my fingers crossed!
now on to figuring out boots for barn chores. they have to be warm to 30 below, tall enough to keep out the snow drifts, and impervious to snow and manure.
if youre tiny (as it seems from your post) you might check on line for bogs winter boots – they go to -40F and right now you can get some good deals if youre not too picky about color.
I am new to homesteading and we don’t get nearly as cold here in Middle TN…except for this year!!! I love my Carhartt Full Swing jacket and insulated coveralls but also struggle to find gloves for my small hands. However, I cannot wear Carhartt’s regular pants because they do not come in small enough sizes. I finally found an awesome pair of work pants from Red Ant Pants out of MT. They specialize in women’s canvas pants and they are worth every penny!
Does anyone have a suggestion for rain gear? I really need a heavyweight jacket and pants because we get some downpours here and my current jacket is just not cutting it!
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well, i know the season is getting late, but i got my very first pair of bogs for valentines!! <3 hubby had read my 9 as a 6 on pair of shoes to get my size bless his heart so i had to return and get another pair – but wonder of wonders i found a pair on DEEEEP discount as its end of the season – YAY ME!! (yes i would have preferred a nicer print, but for the price i was not going to be picky)
anyway – i think they are going to be great, but i have a question – what do you do with your pant leg? the carhartt overalls will go over them, but when its not that cold i have flannel lined jeans and i think im kind of stuck – they dont go in and they dont fit over.
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Hi,
Reading this for tips on warm clothes. But I’m curious if you’ve tried out Key Apparel? Great, American company in Kansas since 1908. I haven’t tried their work coats, insulated bibs, etc., so I’m wondering if they’re warm. Prices are very reasonable compared to Carhart.
Hot hands tucked in my gloves. And you can seal them in an airtight ziplock and reuse them for two or three days. Once they hit the cold air they reactivate. Just be sure to get the air out and seal the bag real tight. I once got frostbite on my hands so my circulation isn’t the best and my hands get so cold. Not with hot hands. (The little heat packs).
I’m so happy to see Stormy Kromer hats on your list! They are made in Michigan, close-ish to where I live. People wear them here for warmth and for “fashion”.
Carhartt is the manufacturer here in my small town of Irvine, Kentucky !!! They are an Amazing Company and truly support our Community ?? So glad you like their products. !