As a native from California, I can safely say that I have been changed by the winters here at Notre Dame. The winter months last long, so adapting is not so much a choice but a way of life. The sunny and 75°F weather was replaced by negative temperatures and piles and piles of snow. It took me a while to figure out what things I would need to keep warm and what stores had the best options. Through trial and error, I figured out the best things I could wear to keep myself warm while I was venturing out into the freezing winter wonderland.
Here is a list of my personal favorite items that have kept me warm these past three years!
1) Down Jacket
This jacket is necessary to survive because it will keep your entire body warm when you’re speed-walking to class. A down jacket is one of the best insulators because it traps the warmth in and keeps the cold out. The pockets are also lined with fleece to keep your hands warm when your gloves seem to have gone missing. If you are a girl, try to get a jacket that is a bit longer to keep more of your body warm!
2) Gloves
Gloves are a must here at Notre Dame. It doesn’t matter what type of gloves you have because any pair will keep them warmer than if you didn’t have any on at all. A lot of students are getting gloves that have touch-screen capabilities.
3) Ear Warmers
With your body and hands covered, you will also need ear warmers. The winds here can be brutal; the last thing you want is windburn. A lot of students use earmuffs on top of the head ear warmers or fleece headbands.
4) Snow Boots
The most important item you will need is a good pair of snow boots. The last thing you want is to slip and fall in front of other students while you are walking. Snow boots have good traction on them that will stabilize you more while you are walking.
5) Scarves
Scarves are just a fun thing to have for the winter. Not only do they keep your neck warm, they are also good for covering your face with if you are going to be outside for a long time.