As winter descends upon Cambridge, students face the annual challenge of braving frigid temperatures on their routes to school and back. Staying warm during this time requires preparation and resourcefulness, so here’s your ultimate guide to making it through the cold months ahead.
Layering is your best friend during winter. Sophomores Tibor Haehn ’27 and Lucas Alexander Katz ’27 emphasize to the Register Forum, “During this time of year, I normally wear at least three layers of clothing.” In addition to layering, remembering to wear a hat and gloves will prove worthwhile, as people lose a significant amount of heat through their heads and hands.
However, piling on clothes isn’t enough; investing in some quality winter gear is just as essential. A sturdy coat and boots are your best bet for navigating the snow-covered sidewalks. If you’re on a budget, local thrift stores and secondhand shops often carry affordable, high-quality winter clothing. While this article promises to help with staying warm this season, winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always wise to carry an extra hat or scarf in your bag. Always check the forecast before heading out and be ready for sudden temperature drops, especially at this time of year in Cambridge where heading out without knowledge of what weather could be waiting for you could mean the difference between a good or bad day.
A well-rested body is also better equipped to regulate heat. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your energy levels high and your immune system strong. CRLS also provides plenty of cozy indoor spaces to escape the cold, like the cafeteria or library. Arriving at school a bit earlier allows you to spend more time in these spaces, letting your body adjust quickly to the cold. A hot drink will only add to this experience; it can do wonders on a cold day. So before you leave the house, bring a thermos filled with tea, coffee, or cocoa to sip on during the school day. Don’t forget to eat enough calories, as your body not only needs fuel to function, but to generate heat as well. Skipping meals is a surefire way to feel colder, sadder, and more tired. Look for ways to minimize exposure to the cold: whether it’s by finding the quickest route to school or avoiding walks outside, it’s always good to cut corners where you can. If you’re biking, wear windproof clothing and consider hand warmers for extra comfort. You shouldn’t have any exposed skin, but if you do, remember that cold air can dry out the skin. You can protect yourself from chafed skin and chapped lips by regularly applying moisturizer and lip balm to prevent cracking and chapping.
Winter weather doesn’t have to be a struggle every morning. With the right preparation and mindset, you can stay warm and thrive throughout the season. Bundle up, keep moving, and enjoy the best of what winter in Cambridge has to offer.
This article also appears in our January 2025 print edition.
