Down coats will keep you warmest and since most have an outer nylon shell, they provide good protection from the wind. Wool coats are the next warmest. Leather coats can protect against the wind, but they aren’t warm enough for Ithaca winters.

The layers keep pockets of warmer air between them to insulate your body from the cold. For your upper body, a long-sleeved shirt worn over an undershirt and topped with a sweater and coat is best. For your lower body, a pair of long underwear underneath a pair of loose-fitting pants will keep you warm. Don’t forget your feet! Thick, insulating socks are especially important.

Keep your head covered with a hat or the hood of your coat. Bundle up with a scarf to keep your throat and chest warm.

Mittens will keep your hands warmer than gloves because they expose a smaller surface area to the cold.

Hiking boots with insulated lining and thick rubber soles with lots of tread work well on campus. They allow you to walk up and down the many hills safely while your feet stay warm. Boots with rubber feet or toes can work well. If the boots are all-leather, you will need to waterproof them with silicon spray. Rubber rain boots are waterproof but may not keep your feet warm enough. Don’t forget warm wool or fleece socks!