Farm Fashion: How I Stay Warm in the Winter Feeding Cows
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” – Alfred Wainwright
This phrase, up above, hails from Scandinavian heritage which feels extremely fitting for our climate here in the upper Great Plains.
When working outside for extended periods during the splendid season of winter my main priorities are:
- Be comfortable enough to work.
- Stay dry, obviously.
- Focus on keeping neck, feet, and fingers warm for maximum efficiency.
The right tools can make all the difference for the job and I consider wearing appropriate clothing to be an indispensable tool. Keeping the neck warm doesn’t seem like it should be a high priority, but I’ve noticed it makes all the difference in working comfortably.
Let’s Start at the Top
To keep my neck warm, I always grab a hooded sweatshirt. The hood on this one has been my all time favorite! Brace yourself – it’s expensive to buy for the hood, but I have loved it! So much so that I have it in a couple colors. The hood and length make it the perfect layer with snowpants and a coat. Even if I keep the hood down for most of the day, it provides a taller collar/wind break at the back of my neck.
On really cold days, I add a silk scarf or as the western world calls them, wild rags. A standard wild rag is 36″x36″. I bought 26.5″ squares for the kids to wear and they fit me for a cold, but not frigid day. These have also been a fun way to add personality to an outfit!
They aren’t silk, but the price point is great – search square silk scarf and you’ll find a plethora of options. Have this one in my cart right now!
Coats
My criteria for choosing a coat is simple: start searching in the ski or snowboard section. These coats are meant to be able to move and usually have a longer fit that covers my hips. This keeps me warmer, dry, and comfortable wearing leggings in public if I ever need to.
This is my first coat that zips on the side rather than the front and I’ve loved it every day for many years. The pockets ARE THE LITERAL BEST!
Bottoms
From the top, now down to the bottom. Snow pants work so much better for me than coveralls. It’s easier to go to the bathroom, no weight pulling on my shoulders and less bulk in my coat.
I gave up wearing leggings as pants for work, but when it’s snow pants season it only makes sense to wear leggings under them! They slide on so much easier and fit in my boots better than jeans. Plus they stay put.
Boots
Sizing up in winter boots to give my feet a touch more room helps them stay warm. Snow boots are bulkier for me to walk in, so I reserve those for the coldest of times. These have been worth the investment for days we’re outside more than we are in.
For in between days when I need to be able to move quickly, I LOVE these boots. They are more sneaker than boot and I’m able to be quick and nimble.
During mud season, adding sherpa insoles to my rain boots was the best $20 I’ve ever spent.
Gloves
Or should I say mittens. These are great, affordable and they have the nice cloth portion to wipe my runny nose when needed, #iykyk.
Extras
My lips are chronically dry. I keep chapstick in my car and the breakroom. Working on reapplying more often!
This “lotion” is my favorite for my face. The only one I’ve found that really hydrates the way I need it to.
Phone batteries don’t love the cold. Having a battery pack is super helpful on days where my phone gets cold or I need a charge without being in a cab with power.
It’s so bright I feel like I wear my sunglasses more in the winter than the summer. These have held up really well for me and this is the Amazon alternative with the same shape!
Conclusion
Figuring out how to dress for the farm in the winter is tough. It’s not quite like being on an all day outdoor adventure that needs base layers because it’s likely there will be cab time. There is a delicate balance of being dressed warm enough to be outside for hours if the situation springs up, but also being prepared to be in and out of equipment all day.
This is my tried and tested winter uniform, but I’d love to hear what you love! I’m always up to for trying something new!
More Resources
PS — The first item I bought after I got my colors done was a winter coat since it’s basically my winter uniform.
Check out this post for Kid Winter Essentials!
