Outdoor Winter Essentials

Our nordic friends know a thing or two when it comes to embracing cold weather.  They embrace a love for the outdoors or Friluftsliv, which is a lifestyle we might consider if we want to come out of winter during a pandemic in a good headspace.

I am on a mission to inspire all of the winter hating Debby Downers of the world. Just because it’s cold, doesn’t mean you can’t go outside and enjoy it.

There are just a couple things you need to do:

Step 1. Change your mindset. Step 2. Set yourself up for success.

With that being said, Lauren and I joined forces and put together a pretty solid list of items you might find will enhance your outdoor cold weather experiences.

These items can be a treat for yourself or a gift for someone you think could use a little outdoor love.

Let’s dive in!

1. THERMAL GLOVES 2.CHIMINEA 3. IRISH COFFEE MUGS 4. THERMAL LONG UNDERWEAR 5. MAGICAL FLAMES 6. PENDLETON WOOL BLANKET 7. RUSSIAN TAPPER HAT 8. SOLO STOVE 9. BATTERY OPERATED HAND WARMERS 10. WOMEN’S NORTH FACE PARKA 11. SMARTWOOL SOCKS 12. HEADLAMP 13. MULLED WINE KIT

Gloves are absolutely vital for cold outdoor fun. Thermal gloves with a touchscreen finger mean no one’s digits are falling off because a moment needs to be captured or a text needs to be sent.

I am thinking outside of the box here while everyone else orders their propane outdoor heaters. The chiminea has been the coziest addition to my patio and the smoke get’s pushed through the chimney, thus the name, leaving all the outdoor enthusiasts that enjoy it smelling less like a bonfire and more like the cold night’s fresh air.

Another way to keep the body warm is by drinking glogg, of course. These Irish coffee mugs are the perfect vessel to enjoy a hot drink. Bottoms up!

Layers are the key to getting the most out of the outdoors. These Amazon Essentials long johns deliver on softness and price!

As if a fire wasn’t cozy and festive enough on its own, you can make it burn flames that are the color of the rainbow with Magical Flames! The kids will love it!

B.Y.O.B. – Bring your own blanket! Gone are the days of bringing your own beer. Okay, that’s not true at all, but bringing your own blanket is definitely a trend I can get behind. Hygge AF! Pendleton’s blankets are more than the perfect outdoor blanket. They are an heirloom and would make for a beautiful gift.

If there was ever a year to buy a hat with a mask attached to it, this would be that year. Okay, all jokes aside, this Russian trapper hat is built more for warmth and less about spreading the virus, but if there is a winter option that keeps the Ruskie’s warm then you know it’s good.

4 words. Less smoke. More flame. The solo stove is the new kid on the patio and it lives up to the hype. If you are into efficient heating look no further.

Stocking Stuffer Alert! This one is for the gadget-loving person in your life.  These rechargeable hand warmers going to be a hit this holiday and winter season.

“There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” A good coat is essential if you are going to enjoy the winter season. Proper butt coverage keeps the cold breeze from passing thru and if you are good with goose down you’ll def be down for this NorthFace jacket. It’s super lightweight and incredibly warm. Waterproof as well. The faux fur lining is removable.

I’ve made sure to give some options so your fingers stay warm, but we can’t forget out feet.  Smartwool is cozy, effective, and has some super snazzy designs.

One of the reasons Scandinavian’s thrive in the cold is because oftentimes they are active in it, day and night. A headlamp offers safety and light to guide your way should you decide to venture out after sundown.

The European’s call mulled wine comfort in a cup. This mulled wine kit offers the interactive experience of making the wine and then enjoying the fruits of your labor with the one(s) you love.

Happy Holidays!

xo, Michelle