As fall transitions into winter, there are few things more predictable than complaints about the weather; it’s either too cold, too rainy, too snowy, or too dark. Should you find yourself falling into this habit (which, let’s face it, does not make for great conversation), why not resolve to embrace winter, instead of fighting it?
Invest in some warm, yet fashionable, winter gear
Winter clothing has come a long way in recent years and the days of sacrificing fashion for warmth are mostly behind us. In fact, we would argue that being poorly dressed for the weather, no matter how fabulous those heels or blazer, is a major fashion faux pas (remember those days spent in undergrad lining up for the bar without proper clothing? Yeah, not cute). Just like different activities and events require specific gear, so does dressing for winter.
If you invest in just one item to get you through the daily grind of winter, make it a great pair of winter boots, since they will let you get in and around the city with ease. I’ve had great experience with Helly Hansen’s Skuld 3 winter boots, available in black, brown, and white. These boots are perfect for walking all over town: they are waterproof, resist salt stains, and provide excellent grip on the ice. If you often find yourself waiting around for transit, you’ll find these boots will keep your feet warm and toasty. For men, why not give Keen’s waterproof Anchorage Boot a try? Bonus: these lace-free boots slip on and off easily so you can quickly change into your dress shoes once you’re at work.
Switch up your commute
Sometimes driving a car is more effort than it’s worth, and no time is that more apparent than when the city is in the midst of its first snow storm. Walking, cycling, or taking transit and leaving the driving up to somebody else is the best way to relax and actually enjoy the season’s first snowfall. Don’t be surprised if you make it to your destination faster than those who drove!
Take up a new winter activity
My winter philosophy boils down to this: If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Take advantage of the winter weather and try a new activity that will get your heart pumping and your body temperature up so that you can withstand any winter day. There are a ton of sports rental equipment companies and stores (e.g., University of Calgary Outdoor Centre, Mountain Equipment Co-op, Sports Rent) that make it easy to try out a new activity without committing to purchasing costly equipment. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, skating, and even downhill ski or snowboard can all be done within the city. Feeling more adventurous? With the Rocky Mountains only an hour away, the opportunities for winter sports are practically endless.