Shopping for Winter Clothing
Winter Clothing in Saskatoon
Table of Contents
Introduction
Saskatoon, located in the province of Saskatchewan, is one of the coldest inhabited areas in Canada.
Winters can reach temperatures between -20°C to -40°C (including wind chill). To live comfortably and safely in these conditions, choosing the right winter clothing is especially important.
Basics of Dressing for Cold Weather
Dress in Layers (Layering System)
The best method for dealing with extreme cold is to dress in multiple layers:
| Layer | Description |
|---|---|
|
Base Layer |
Worn directly against the skin. Should wick moisture (sweat) away and keep the body dry. Recommended materials: merino wool, polyester, or advanced synthetic fabrics. |
|
Mid Layer |
Provides insulation and retains body heat. Options include wool sweaters, synthetic insulated jackets, or fleece layers. |
|
Outer Layer |
A windproof and waterproof jacket or parka to protect against wind, rain, and snow. Should be lightweight yet durable. |
Wearing layers allows you to add or remove clothing depending on the temperature and your level of activity.
Choosing the Right Clothing
- Winter Jacket: Insulated, windproof, and water-resistant jackets.
Parkas (longer winter coats) are recommended for better heat retention. - Pants: Winter-specific pants or thermal base layers under regular pants.
- Hat: A significant amount of body heat is lost through the head. A warm hat (e.g., woolen beanie) is essential.
- Gloves: Warm, waterproof gloves to prevent frostbite.
- Scarf or Balaclava: Protect your neck and face against cold winds.
- Winter Boots: Waterproof, insulated boots with anti-slip soles to handle ice and snow.
- Warm Socks: Wool or wool-blend socks are crucial to prevent cold-related foot injuries.
Where to Buy Proper Winter Clothing
| Store | Description |
|---|---|
|
Mark’s |
High-quality, functional winter clothing.
|
|
Winners |
Varied selection, often at lower prices.
|
|
Sport Chek |
Specialized clothing for winter sports and extreme cold conditions.
|
|
Costco |
Affordable winter wear (available seasonally).
|
|
Walmart |
More economical options, good for initial purchases.
|
|
MEC (Mountain Equipment Company) |
Professional-grade, high-performance gear (mostly online orders). |
It’s recommended to invest in high-quality main items such as jackets and boots for better durability and protection.
Important Notes
- Regular winter clothing (from milder climates) is not sufficient for Saskatoon winters.
- Wind chill can make it feel significantly colder than the actual temperature.
- In extreme cold, you should limit time spent outdoors to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
Conclusion
By choosing proper winter clothing and using the layering system, you can experience Saskatoon’s harsh winters more comfortably and safely.
Having the ability to adjust your layers indoors or in warmer spaces increases comfort significantly.
Investing in quality base layers, jackets, boots, and gloves is one of the most important preparations for living in Saskatoon.
Disclaimer
The information provided in these resources is intended for informational purposes only, and its accuracy is not guaranteed. The Saskatoon Iranian Cultural Association accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the content or any consequences resulting from the use of the provided information.
These resources are the property of the Saskatoon Iranian Cultural Association and may be freely referenced, provided that a link to the corresponding page on the Association’s website is included.
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