Everyone must visit Canada at least once. It’s more than a vacation spot. Students also fly to Canada for their academic future. If you land there during winter, don’t underestimate the weather. Shop for suitable winter clothes for Canada in India itself.
Canada is ranked as the second-largest country in terms of total area and the tenth-largest economy. It’s also a highly developed country housing the most number of immigrants.
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A Brief on Canada
Canada has managed to capture global attention in terms of studies, work, immigration, or just exploration. As a result, it’s become a haven for travelers in the past two decades.
India is one country that has seen many residents migrate to Canada for higher studies or work and gradually settle there.
This beautiful country in North America is blessed with fantastic geography and biodiversity. A trip to Canada will take you through the following:
- Tall coniferous forests called the Boreal Forest
- Canadian prairies which mainly involve grasslands and plains, and most importantly, a lot of ice.
As this country is close to the Arctic region, Canada has a lot of ice and snow. Winter in Canada can go up to -40℃ depending on your location.
It can be a problem navigating through this snow with proper attire if you’re coming from India. After all, Indians aren’t used to snow or the concept of windchill regularly. But you must shop for all your ideal winter clothes for Canada in India.
Canada Travel Tips
Why do you need such extreme preparation for the trip? Isn’t winter in Canada similar to the rest of the world? Well, not really. The above video has Tania Hemdev’s suggestions for you to survive during winter in Canada.
Temperatures During Winter in Canada
Canadian winters usually fluctuate between 15℃ to -40℃. Winter in Canada begins in mid-December and can last up to mid-March, depending on the province.
As you get to the northern provinces like Manitoba and Alberta, it gets colder. In contrast, the provinces further away from the Arctic region get slightly humid winters, like British Columbia.
When packing your bag, it is a great idea to check where your province lies on the map before making the final call.
Preparing for Winter Travels to Canada
Here are some quick tips if you are planning to travel or move to Canada in winter.
- Make it a point to know where you’re staying. Different provinces have different temperatures.
- Check weather updates daily. You don’t want to miss out on a snow day.
- Accessories are important.
- Layer right. Bulky clothing isn’t the way to go to stay warm.
- Look out for symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia and consult a professional if needed.
We spoke to Shaun Sequeira and Nikhil Aranha, two students pursuing further studies in Canada. Here’s what they had to share about the weather in Canada:
Shaun: “In Toronto, during peak winter season, it gets to -20 or even lesser sometimes. To keep myself warm indoors, we have heaters and get ourselves warm drinks. For the outdoors, we need to layer up quite a bit.
I wear my thermals underneath everything to give me the first layer of warmth followed by a sweater and then my winter jacket. I also use gloves and thermal socks.
If the weather is too cold I sometimes add an extra layer between the thermals and the sweater too.
Nikhil: “In the month of November the temperature ranges from 6 to -4 degrees throughout the day but the Real Feel temperature is colder then the actual temperature.
The real secret is to layer up. When it’s not so cold, 2 layers are enough. When it starts snowing, I can stick to regular clothes. But instead of a regular hoodie, I use a winter jacket. I have swapped my sneakers for winter shoes and have started using gloves.
The main things I am using are jackets, gloves, and winter boots. Once the temperature drops further I will have to start wearing a winter cap to keep my ears warm, a scarf for my neck, and thermals/inner wear to keep myself warm.”
Learn Layering to Shop Winter Clothes for Canada in India
Do you know there is a structured way of layering? If you were unaware till now, that’s very common. After all, Indians don’t face terrible winters all across the country.
Before you search winter clothes for Canada in India, it’s necessary to understand layering. So, let’s figure out how it works.
First, you start with base layers or thermals. Base layers or thermals are what you wear closest to your skin. If you buy them from Kosha, you’ll find multi-functional base layers.
You can wear them as t-shirts, and you’ll also find temperature-regulating options.
Since it’s closest to the skin, your base layer shouldn’t feel itchy. Here again, Kosha has developed a fabric blend that removes the itch you usually face with traditional woollen clothing.
Base layers must be soft to the touch and have good moisture-wicking capabilities. You don’t want to wear a wet base layer and get sick.
Fortunately, Kosha’s super soft thermals do that and more. They are lightweight, soft, warm, temperature regulating, and have rapid dry technology.
Once you have your base layers, you can layer them with mid-layers. Mid-layers are used to provide extra warmth. Depending on the temperature, add or remove the layers.
All sweaters, cardigans, hoodies, and sweatshirts fall under the mid-layer category.
Next up, you have the outer layer. This layer is used for extreme winters and when your body needs protection from the wind, rain, or snow.
There are many multipurpose jackets and coats that can make your winter life in Canada much easier. Kosha’s 4-in-1 jacket is an excellent example of a multi-functional winter jacket.
The final touch for your layering would be the accessories. The right accessories will protect your extremities.
After all, you shouldn’t leave any body part exposed in peak winter climate.
Accessories also can give your entire outfit that extra oomph if you style it correctly.
Canada
Layering Techniques
Layering is a fundamental concept in dressing for cold weather, particularly during harsh Canadian winters. It involves wearing multiple clothing layers to create an effective insulation system that keeps you warm and comfortable in cold temperatures. Each layer serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall thermal regulation and moisture management of your body.
Inner, middle, and outer layers – their material choices
Material Choices for inner layer
For the inner layer, choose moisture-wicking materials such as synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon) or merino wool. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture and can make you feel colder.
Middle Layer (Insulating Layer)
Opt for materials that provide excellent insulation without being too bulky. Examples include fleece, down, synthetic insulated materials, and wool. Fleece is a popular choice due to its warmth-to-weight ratio, while down offers exceptional warmth but should be protected from moisture.
Outer Layer (Shell Layer)
Look for waterproof and breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex, eVent, or similar membranes. These materials provide protection from the elements while allowing sweat to escape.
Remember that the effectiveness of layering also depends on adjusting the number and thickness of layers according to the weather conditions and your activity level. In extremely cold conditions, you might add an additional mid-layer or choose thicker materials. Conversely, during more moderate temperatures, you might opt for a lighter insulation layer.
By using a combination of moisture-wicking, insulating, and protective layers, you create a versatile system that keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable in the challenging Canadian winter environment.
Winter Clothes for Canada in India from Kosha
When discussing winter clothes for Canada, remember that it can get extremely cold and wet or dry, depending on your location.
Winters in places like Ontario have that extra humidity that sets the stage for a wet winter, whereas places like Alberta experience a dry winter.
So you’ll need clothes that will keep you warm and protect you from wind, snow, and light precipitation.
So when you talk about winter clothes for Canada in India, Kosha is one such winter clothing brand that can offer you complete guidance and options for your Canadian adventure.
Kosha deals with technical travel and winter clothing. One of the first few Indian brands to launch a product in this niche, We focus on providing travelers with a warm and comfortable experience as sustainably as possible.
So, here’s what Kosha offers you when you wish to shop for winter clothes for Canada in India. I’ll take you through various Kosha winter layers that could help you have a cozy time in Canada.
Jackets as Outerwear
It would be tough to survive the Canadian winter without a good winter jacket. Winter jackets are the outer layer that protects your body from wind chill, snow, or rain. Most jackets come with a hood attached that protects your head.
Kosha’s water-resistant parka jackets are made for Canadian winters. It comes in handy at times when you need to stay warm and dry without compromising on comfort.
These jackets have been tested specifically for subzero temperatures in Finland, Canada, and Mount Everest. So hence you must consider parka jackets while buying your winter clothes for Canada in India.
These jackets are multi-functional and designed with a snow shield and poly fleece lining. They can easily deal with winter elements like wind, rain, and snow. The detachable hood and fur layer ensures extra warmth on those dreaded winter nights.
These are lightweight and not bulky. It makes them a favorite for students who migrate to Canada. If you store them well in a cool and dry place, this jacket will last for 10-15 years.
Merino Wool Sweaters as Mid-Layers
Sweaters are another winter must-have in any cold-weather wardrobe. It’s been part of the winter staple for ages. You’ll find knitted or crocheted sweaters that can trap air between the layers and provide warmth.
Sweaters also have the power to make or break a look. For example, a good cardigan or crewneck pullover can create stunning looks if styled well.
The quality of the sweater is determined by the fabric used to create them. Kosha’s merino wool sweaters are warm, comfortable, and oh-so-soft. Merino wool is obtained from the merino sheep, known for their finest wool fibers.
Merino wool is extremely smooth and lightweight and also an excellent insulator. It traps air efficiently without irritating your skin.
Hoodies and Sweatshirts as Mid-Layers
Hoodies and sweatshirts are also worthy options as mid-layer winter clothes for Canada in India. These clothes are great for all your casual winter outings in Canada. But don’t underestimate their fashion potential.
Another reason I love hoodies and sweatshirts because they’re easy to wear and pull off on an outfit.
Kosha has a great collection of organic hoodies and Supima cotton pullovers. These clothes might work wonders for your Canadian adventure.
Whether you shop online or at the store, Kosha has eye-catching colours for these layers. You can easily wear it with or without layers depending on the temperature.
Snow Pants and Thermal Leggings for Bottom Wear
Now let’s talk about the bottom half of your winter clothes for Canada in India. One of the most common mistakes that most of us make while packing for a winter trip is paying a lot of attention to the upper layers.
The bottom half of the body gets just as cold as the top half. As a result, you might often neglect your bottom wear. You need to make sure you stay warm to have a comfortable stay.
You need some excellent bottom thermal wear and waterproof or snow pants.
Thermals or base layers are worn close to the skin to keep the body dry and warm. Thermal leggings do that by keeping your legs warm and dry.
Kosha’s unique blend of merino wool and bamboo base layers is designed to keep you fresh, dry, and warm. The temperature-regulating property of the fabric, combined with the quick moisture-wicking property, makes it perfect for Canadian winters.
Snow pants or ski pants are what you wear over your thermals. They’re like your regular trousers. But they are snowproof, water-resistant, and easily let you navigate through snow without getting wet.
It’ll make your winter days in Canada much better. And should you decide to go hiking or skiing, snow pants will come in handy.
Winter Shoes as Footwear
Choosing good winter or snow boots greatly impacts your Canadian adventures. You must look out for suitable footwear along with winter clothes for Canada in India. It can make or break your journey.
Canada in winter is a snow wonderland. Everywhere you go, you’ll see sparkling snow. Unfortunately, it also implies that you need a good grip when you’re walking.
Regular boots or shoes provide balance on a smooth floor. But for snowy conditions, you need separately designed winter boots.
Woollen Socks as Footwear
Along with boots, you also need good woollen socks. If they’re missing, your footwear for the Canada winter trip will be incomplete.
Woollen socks can be counted as a must-have for freezing temperatures. They protect your feet and keep them safe from frostbite.
And you should also remember that we often tend to lose heat through the soles of our feet. In such situations, socks and boots will come in handy.
During the winter days(or nights), it would be challenging to maneuver around without protecting your feet, as the floors would also be cold. Invest in a pair of two good merino wool socks.
Kosha’s merino wool socks are soft, warm, and highly comfortable. It is not bulky and can be used for a long time with proper care.
Woollen Gloves for the Hands
Wearing proper winter gloves is one preventative measure that can help you keep your hands warm and safe from the perils of winter weather.
As you’ve read Canada does experience a lot of snowfall. In such conditions, you need gloves if you want to enjoy a good snow fight. And if you’re addicted to your gadgets throughout, you’ll need touchscreen gloves too.
Ensure that you wear waterproof gloves when you’re out in the snow.
Woollen Beanies for the Head and Ears
Beanies are very important to protect your head from the wind, snow, and rain. If your ears can get some cover, that would be ideal too.
After all, you shouldn’t let any cold winds pass through your ears’ openings. And you already know that wind chill is a big factor during winter in Canada. It makes the weather feel colder than it might show on a weather app.
Woollen Scarves and Mufflers for the Neck
One of the practical reasons why you should wear winter scarves is to protect your neck from the cold. That’s not all.
If you take care of the functional aspect, it can also look fashionable with the right outfits. Patterned scarves always give your outfit that extra edge compared to solid coloured ones.
As for the ideal fabrics, in all cases you’ll find wool mentioned in the headings. Well, nothings beats wool when it comes to good quality winter wear. If you want to look for specific woollen varieties, merino wool is a well-known and trusted fabric.
Protecting your extremities is extremely important during the winter season in Canada. With an average temperature of -15℃, please don’t forget to pack suitable woollen accessories for your Canada adventure.
FAQs
If you have any more questions, you can refer to these frequently asked questions.
What clothes do you need for Canada winter?
Having thermal socks, gloves, a hat, t-shirts, and leggings for layering is crucial. You should absolutely get your jacket here in Canada if you are from a place with high weather.
What type of clothes do Canadian wear?
There are no mandatory attire requirements anywhere in Canada, which is a very hospitable country. People generally dress in athleisure when they are out and about, and the attire is fairly casual.
Why are winter clothes important?
Keeping your face, neck, and head warm is made easier by dressing for the weather. Wearing warm clothing can help stave against hypothermia. It’s crucial to bring up the necessity of a nice pair of boots while talking about how to dress for the weather. The greatest approach to avoid falling is to invest in a good pair of boots.
What clothes to carry to Canada from India?
Make sure you bring warm clothing with you, like thermals, coats, boots, and gloves. Canada also sells winter clothes, but it might be pricey. To save money and prevent the effort of shopping for them once you arrive, it is preferable to pack warm clothing from India.
How do you dry clothes in winter in Canada?
Because it takes an absurd amount of heat to keep our houses comfortably warm in Canada, clothes dry quickly throughout the winter. A drying rack serves two purposes: Your nose won’t dry out for several hours, but your clothing probably will. The moisture acts as a kind of humidifier.
Conclusion
Canada, like many other countries, is a hub for Indian migrants. If you plan and pack wisely, you can have fun in the Canadian snow.
This post was all about finding options for Canada winter wear in India itself. Apart from this, if you really feel like shopping in Canada, here’s what you can do:
In Canada, sales take place at the start and end of seasons. If you’ve gone there with most of your winter wear sorted, there’s no harm in shopping for one or two pieces from ground zero.
The Canadian Thanksgiving weekend in October, as well as the Black Friday weekend in November, are popular times to find great deals.
But you shouldn’t look to follow that method for your entire packing list. It’ll be too late if you plan to go down that route. Kosha store is there to help you with all your winter apparel needs.
Hope you have a happy journey and a wonderful time in Canada! You can also visit us anytime for layering consults. You can also contact +919820999006 for the same.