Wondering what to wear in New York in winter? No worries – this blog post will provide you with all the insider tips!
Starting a travel bucket list? No wonder that New York will be the first on the list. This dreamy wonderland is known for its skyscrapers, exclusive shops, twinkling lights, and parks. Also known as ‘The Fashion Capital’, New York is high on fashion, stunning architecture and Christmas events.
Keep reading as we share our winter clothing tips for New York!
New York City winter tips.
Table of Contents
What to wear in New York in winter: New York Winter Packing List
During the time of winter, you can enjoy this picture-perfect state just by exploring the streets and can have free of charge fun. First, let’s get familiar with the city by knowing about it briefly.
Where is New York located?
New York, often called New York City, or NYC for short, is the most populous city in the United States. Located at the southern tip of the State of New York, the city is the home to the headquarters of the United Nations and has sometimes been called the capital of the world.
Average winter temperatures in New York
Winter in New York begins in mid-December and lasts until the middle of March. New York celebrates Christmas with little snow and clear roads which is quite opposite to what we see in the movies. The actual coldest months with snow blizzards are in January and February.
Even in its snowy season, New York continues its gaiety with Chinatown’s iconic Lunar New Year Parade and Festival and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. These festivals add the cherry on the top to the enjoyment that one can have.
The different seasons of New York are as follow:
Winter: This season starts from December and ends in March and the average temperature ranges between 35°F and 45°F (2°C and 7°C).
Spring: This season starts from March and ends in June and the average temperature ranges between 50°F and 70°F (10°C and 21°C).
Summer: This season starts from June and ends in September and the average temperature ranges between 80°F and 85°F (27°C and 29°C).
Autumn: This season starts from September and ends in December and the average temperature ranges between 55°F and 75°F (13°C and 24°C).
New York Winter Packing List
It is better to be prepared than worrying while travelling. So check out the list of ‘what to wear in New York in winter’ and minimize your packaging during this amazing trip.
Outerwear like puffer jackets and parkas
Fleece-lined Parka Jackets make you look fashionable and keep you warm while you are eyeing the new year’s sale in NYC winter. Puffer or ski jackets are for fun-loving adventurers who can’t stop their feet from stepping in snow.
Navy Water Repellent Puffer Jacket|Women
If you are confused as to what wear is suitable for dry winters then a winter coat is your rescuer to highlight your look.
Sweaters and Pullovers
Sweaters and Pullovers give you the chic look yet keep you warm with fewer layers. It also serves the purpose as a mid-layer while exploring the new outdoor activities.
Doon Navy Supima Pullover | Men
Baselayers
The most basic and important thing to carry is the thermals. Whether it is a New York Marathon or viewing the serene scenes, thermals keep you dry by protecting your body from sweat. It will be anti-odour, quick moisture-wicking, and temperature regulating.
Aqua Merino Wool Bamboo Thermal Sleeveless Vest | Men
Woolen bottoms – Snow Pants
Same as the thermal top, thermal leggings are necessary to keep the body dry. Fleece lined leggings are ideal for winter workouts with optimum warmth & breathability.
Layer these lined leggings with snow pants in case of exploring the winter wonderland of snow without letting the sweat touch your body.
Purple Waterproof Ski Pant | Men
Warm accessories
Accessories like hat gloves and scarves are equally important to keep you warm and comfy in the cold weather of New York winter.
Stay warm in style with the soft woollen beanie, double fold the rim to keep your ears & head protected in deep winter, while breathable enough to not cause overheating. Wear it indoors or out, beanies can level up for winter adventure sports.
Pack good pairs of touch screen gloves to access your phone while on the trip. Gloves that keep your hands dry while doing outdoor activities are a must.
Add grace to your outfits by draping a muffler around the neck and look effortlessly stylish.
Black & Blue Wool Blend Diagonal Winter Beanie
Warm shoes or snow boots
To have all the outdoor fun or to just wander along the streets of New York City, you need a good pair of shoes.
Carry a pair of knee-high boots as they allow you to layer up with some warm socks and add chic style to your winter outfits by tucking your jeans into it. Or if you are an adventurous person who likes to have serene views of frozen waterfalls and fountains then be prepared to climb the frosty mountains with snow boots.
Warm socks
Add good pairs of no blister warm socks to do all the fun in your checklist like ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and what not. Be conscious and have a pair of technical socks to reduce the chances of blisters, cramping toes & smelly feet.
Choose the socks that have cushioned pressure points at the heel & toes, breathable body-mapped mesh, arch support plus a soft ribbed weave at the ankle to avoid slippage. Add some liner socks too, to keep feet warm and cozy.
Olive & Grey Wool Blend Colorblocked Warm Fashion Socks
Importance of layering in New York in winter
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can’t look modish. Let’s break this myth by knowing the secret of layering in the right way.
New York in Winter.
The first layer would be the thermal or base layer. Temperature regulating thermals keeps you cool when you are indoors dining, and makes your body warm when you are on outdoor activity. Merino wool blend thermals exhibit this property in the best way.
The next layer would be the mid-layer. You can add all the stylish stuff like hoodies, sweaters and pullovers in this layer.
After mid-layer comes to the shell layer. For all adventurers, who come across external factors like wind, snow or rain this layer of puffer, parka or ski jacket is a must.
The final layer is the accessories to add a splash of colours to your outfit.
Tips for Students heading to New York in winter
New York is the city where students believe their dreams come true and it is true. Let’s get started with the tips for students heading to the Big Apple!
No Cash – Yes! You heard it right. Cash is not so important in New York City. Even the vegetable vendor carries a card machine. So travel with a light pocket but with cards.
Transportation – You can find cabs with a cone on the top and the tip of the cone is for ads and black dots below it signals whether they are available or not. So hail a cab and get going!
Wifi – In today’s world Wifi has become an essential element in our lives. Worry not, NYC offers free Wifi almost everywhere like coffee shops, malls, parks etc. Start working or hook up on the internet anywhere as the city never runs out of bandwidth.
Winter activities in New York
Here are some activities for New York in winter.
Skiing and Snowboarding – For all ski lovers, New York can make their expertise in skiing with its more ski areas. Maybe you are a lifelong skier or maybe you are a beginner, you can find your suitable type of terrain for skiing or snowboarding.
Ice fishing – Frozen lakes of New York attract fishing enthusiasts in the winter for a much different type of experience. Bring specialized equipment for cutting holes, Chairs and shelter to experience the best Ice fishing in New York. Lake Ontario in the Finger Lakes and Lake George are among the best-known ice fishing spots.
Dog Sledding – Experience the Dog Sledding as if you are in the Arctic just by paying the drivers and enjoy the ride with a cozy blanket. Dog sledge rides are available on frozen Mirror Lake on most winter days.
Other winter activities include exploring winter villages, holiday markets, remembering your childhood by Tobogganing and Tubing, Snowmobiling, and many more.
FAQ’S
1. What is the weather like in New York in the winter?
New York winters can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -1 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, with an average of 30 inches (76 cm) per year.
2. How do I dress for winter in New York City?
Layering is key when dressing for winter in New York City. Start with a base layer of thermal underwear, followed by a sweater or sweatshirt, and a warm coat. Be sure to wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf, and choose shoes or boots with good traction.
3. What are some tips for staying safe in New York City in the winter?
Here are a few tips for staying safe in New York City in the winter:
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
- Dress warmly, especially if you will be spending time outdoors.
- Wear shoes or boots with good traction to avoid slipping on ice.
- Be careful when walking on sidewalks and stairs that may be icy.
- Take breaks from the cold indoors.
4. How Cold Does It Get in New York City in the Winter?
New York City winters can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (2 to 7 degrees Celsius). The coldest month is typically January, with average temperatures around 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is also common, with the city averaging around 30 inches of snow per year.
5. Is New York City safe in the winter?
Yes, New York City is a safe city to visit in the winter. However, as with any large city, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against crime.
Conclusion
Now that you are well known about what to pack in NYC winter and the tips to travel, don’t stop yourself and start travelling. As there is a famous saying ‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step’, start your single step in the right way.
Don’t forget to visit Kosha at our store in Bandra or you can always find us online on our website. We deliver pan India and are open 24X7. So, please do drop by sometimes, if not to purchase but just to visit our store!
For any queries related to wearing thermals, base layers, or winter wear in general, visit Kosha’s store and get a free consultation! While you’re at it, check out Kosha’s website for the wide range of thermals and jackets available at Kosha.