Yes, You Need These Cold-Weather Accessories to Survive This Winter (and They’re Almost All Under $20)

This January, I set a goal for myself: Walk 10,000 steps every day in the hopes that it would become a habit. The root of my goal came from a good place—working remotely means I spend almost all day indoors without much movement beyond my daily Pilates class. But there was one thing I failed to consider: the weather.

I live in Boston, where winters are notoriously snowy and bitterly cold. Add in the fact that Boston is the windiest city in the United States (surprise, it’s not Chicago), and you can see why this goal might’ve been better suited for spring. But alas, my stubborn Taurus nature wouldn’t allow me to throw in the towel so soon, and after just a week of coming home with numb legs and ears that ached from the biting wind, I knew I needed to upgrade my cold-weather gear.

If you, like me, are looking for ways to add some movement to your days (even when single-digit temperatures make you want to curl up in your warm bed and never leave) layers are the name of the game. Here is the exact cold-weather gear I’ve been using to stay warm on my early morning walks, so I can stick to my goals—no matter what the forecast throws at me.

Shop Cold-Weather Gear

Steve Madden Long Winter Puffer Coat — $65.00

First things first: If you don’t have a long puffer jacket, you’re doing yourself a disservice.  Sure, they may not be as fashionable as those trendy cropped jackets—but functionality outweighs style when it’s frigid outside, and the longer length traps heat to keep your legs and back warm. With nine color options and a major discount of $115 off, this one is a winter essential that won’t break the bank.

Time and Tru Pom-Pom Cable Knit Winter Beanie — $10.00

A cozy hat is a must for colder weather, and this one checks all the boxes with its ultra-soft lining, classic cable-knit design, and cute pom-pom on top. Even better, it’s machine washable, which is so clutch for when it needs a refresh after a hot yoga class or a particularly brisk-paced winter walk.

No Boundaries Cozy Fleece Headwrap — $6.00

Some mornings, my bedhead is beyond saving, so a hat is not an option. Instead, I toss my hair into a ponytail and reach for this soft fleece headwrap. It keeps my ears warm while adding a cute, low-effort touch to my look. While it’s not as toasty as a full hat, it’s perfect for those rushed mornings when you need a quick fix to a bad hair day.

Harmtty Double-Layered Soft Mittens — $6.00

This month, I discovered the magic of mittens, and I’m officially a convert. They keep your hands *so* much warmer than gloves by letting your fingers generate heat together. Plus, since they make it impossible to scroll, I’ve been reaching for my phone less during walks, giving me a chance to stay present and enjoy some mindful, tech-free moments.

Mifelio Fleece Scarf — $4.00

A scarf has become a non-negotiable layer for me this winter. Keeping your neck covered makes a noticeable difference in staying warm, and I love how versatile it is—you can easily adjust it to cover part of your face on those extra chilly days for added protection.

INNERSY Thermal Underwear Set — $20.00

If you’re serious about staying warm this winter, a good thermal base layer is a must-have. This fleece-lined set is soft, lightweight, and snug enough to wear under just about anything without feeling bulky. With the right layers, even the bitter cold can’t stand in the way of your goals—so bundle up and keep moving.