Everyday Systems

I really am enjoying my ranger expeditions (mounted and otherwise) but i'm looking ahead to the winter. They can be bitterly cold here.

As an urban ranger I walk every week day with my dog (usually with daughter, frequently with husband) in the evenings after supper. It's already dark enough that we need to carry a flashlight or lantern so drivers can see us. In addition, my daughter and I often ride our bikes to he park or library, et c. Soon, it will just be freezing out there and I'm wondering how you northern/cold weather rangers manage.

Tips, tricks, gear?

Get the best, warmest boots you can afford.

I'm from the South, where dainty shoes are more common, and indeed, are my preference.

But every year, come November or so, I bless the fact I got talked into buying some ugly, clunky, really heavy boots with a thick tread and removable lining.

I've replaced the linings, I've replaced the laces. But the treads are still great and after almost nine years they still keep my feet warm and dry. They may be ungraceful, but in cold or wet weather, they are boots of ass-kicking awesomeness.

Winters are pretty cold in Minnesota. I don't mind that so much, because you can wear good clothing for warmth and protection, but I really hate walking on ice. Too slick.

I don't bike when it's cold, I really hate the cold wind blowing at me. I know some people bike year-round but I am not one of them!

When it starts to get really cold, I just bundle up. On the very coldest days I'll even wear long-johns. Wool socks are great. Obviously you need good boots, hat, mitts, and scarf too, as well as a coat that will protect you. The nice thing about the cold weather is if you get hot, you can always take off a layer.

I'm not thrilled about walking in the cold, but both the dog and I need the exercise. I'd rather walk in the cold than the heat. I can always add more layers if necessary; I can't always remove enough (and not worry about getting arrested for public indecency) when it's hot.

For walking in the winter I use lightweight thermal underwear, wool socks and running T-shirt and running pants and jacket. A wool hat and good gloves. Gore-Tex treated winter boots. It's lightweight and is wind-proof and keeps the body temperature. Also, this entire ensemble is breathable, so you won't be soaking wet in sweat which is dangerous in cold weather.