Best Plus Size Winter Outdoor Clothing of 2024
TAKING UP SPACE IN THE SNOW: Stay Warm With the Best Plus Size Baselayers, Mid-layers, and Outerwear
The author snowshoeing in the Mokelumne Wilderness with her dog at her side. She’s wearing the L.L. Bean Wildcat Insulated jacket and the Athleta Rainier tights.
Published December 6th, 2023
Home > Gear Reviews > Ski & Snow
Recently, more outdoor brands have expanded their plus size winter clothing options, offering essentials like baselayers and mid-layers made to fit plus-sized bodies. Although the options are still limited, this article shares the best plus sized winter outdoor clothing options I’ve found so far.
Although I love winter, I spent much of my young adulthood not recreating in nature during the season, largely because my size 18/20 body did not fit into snow and winter gear on the rack in most stores.
Even in the sizing among the brands listed here, most stop at 3X or 22/24. There is still so much room for growth from outdoor brands. But I am heartened by the changes the industry has made. And I hope that this article shows only the beginning. It’s important to note that this expansion is still limited, as those looking to purchase “men’s” plus size clothes are often limited, as big and tall sizing is still rare among outdoor brands.
The items listed in this review complement my findings for my best plus size outdoor clothing and best outdoor gear for plus size people lists.
The winter outdoor apparel in this list will keep you warm, safe, and comfortable through this winter and many more to come.
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Plus Size Winter Clothing Summary Table
| CLOTHING ITEM | BEST FOR | SIZES AVAILABLE | MSRP* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BASE LASYER TOPS | ||||
| Smartwool Merino Classic Thermal | Cold weather | 1X - 4X | $115 | |
| Smartwool Merino Classic All Season | Cool to warm weather | 1X - 3X | $115 | |
| DSG Outerwear D-Tech Base Layer | Budget | XL - 4XL | $50 | |
| BASE LAYER BOTTOMS |
* Prices reflect MSRP and are subject to change. We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.
About the Author/ Why You Should Trust Us
My previous pieces have focused on plus-size outdoor clothing and plus-size friendly outdoor gear for fall and spring activities, largely leaving out winter-related recommendations. A big reason for this?
I’ll admit, the snow used to scare me. I didn’t have a childhood filled with weekend ski trips; I only got out a few times when I was very young.
I didn’t have access then — and I’ve now learned that having the financial ability to get out in the snow and the comfort that comes with seeing other people who look like me on the mountain is a privilege, one I didn’t have back then.
I didn’t ski until high school. My mom took me to the local Big Five Sporting Goods to gear up and stuffed me into ski jackets and waterproof pants.
I remember standing in the aisle under the clearance signs. My pants pulled up to my thighs — which was as far as they would go.
During that trip, I wore my uncle’s snow pants, fidgeting as they squeezed uncomfortably at my waist on the lift. I didn’t do anything more than walk in the snow for a decade afterward, afraid that I would never find a place for myself in the powder because I couldn’t find suitable cold-weather clothing that would keep me comfortable, safe, and warm.
“Winter and snow-appropriate outdoor clothing for fat bodies—above “women’s” size 14, or XL—is few and far between, leaving us sidelined from the snowy ski trips, hiking trips, and other winter activities that we deserve access to. ”
Winter and snow-appropriate outdoor clothing for fat bodies—above “women’s” size 14, or XL—is few and far between, leaving us sidelined from the snowy ski trips, hiking trips, and other winter activities that we deserve access to.
This lack of access to cold-weather gear made for my fat body—size 20-22, or 2X-3X—became a part of the story I told myself about the snow: “Because I couldn’t find clothes that would allow me to move comfortably to enjoy winter sports, I would never make it out there, or even if I could I wouldn’t be strong enough to ski, snowshoe, camp, or hike in the snow.”
When I went to my favorite outdoor retail stores, that story was reflected in the white faces and thin bodies surrounding me. This is what barriers to access and a lack of representation does to marginalized people — it tells us what places, clothes, and activities are and are not meant for us, limiting our imaginations when it comes to what we’re capable of and who we could be.
Years later, I returned to the snow, brought back by a love of hiking and an unwillingness to accept that narrative anymore. I wanted to go outside and rediscover the freedom that comes from time spent outdoors alongside the magic of winter. I wanted to become a woman unafraid of the chill of snow on my face, fearless in the face of challenges that come with winter conditions.
I am still becoming that person, still finding myself on slopes and snowy trails. Once I knew I could take care of my body with outdoor clothing that would keep me safe, dry, and warm, I knew I could do anything I set my mind to.
The following recommendations are for plus-size bodies looking to build their winter closet, trying something new and scary: to defy the stories we may have told ourselves. The outside, all of it, belongs to all of us. I hope that sharing my experience will help you tell a new story, too.
Other Women’s Apparel guides you may like:
BASELAYERS: Tops
Warmth starts at your core. Wear synthetic or wool base layers for a solid foundation for almost any winter activity. When purchasing your base layer, pay attention to the weight and the material. Steer clear of cotton — which loses its insulating properties when it gets wet with snow or sweat — to ensure that you stay warm and dry in cold weather.
Look for long sleeve shirts and long underwear made of wool or synthetic material that's moisture-wicking and quick-drying. Some activewear has cotton or rayon — which is not quick drying — so be sure to check the materials. See our Best Base Layers guide for a section on What to Look for in a Baselayer.
Base Layers can also be used year-round as hiking clothes, and you'll see recommendations here that also are in my Best Plus Size Outdoor Clothing guide.
The author in the Smartwool Classic All-Season baselayer. She says, “Almost every time I venture into the snow, or frankly any weather under 55°, I wear this base layer.”
Best for: Cool to warm weather
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $115
The Smartwool Classic All-Season is one of the best plus size base layers I’ve found. It reminds me that simple is best. The silhouette and cut of the long sleeve are classic and true to size. It’s not too snug, but it’s also just loose enough that I don’t feel like I’m wearing a skin-tight shirt. The merino wool is soft and comfortable, and although the price is higher than I usually like to pay for shirts, I find the base layer to make up for the expense.
compare prices on the Smartwool Classic All-Season
The versatility of this shirt is another highlight; it’s equally attractive with a cardigan while running errands in town or under a jacket on a day out snowshoeing.
Almost every time I venture into the snow, or frankly any weather under 55°, I wear this base layer. It is the workhorse of my winter wardrobe, but it is also light enough to be worn in shoulder seasons, when it can get cold in the mornings and evenings but temperate in the day.
The wool helps me regulate my temperature and wicks sweat, leaving me dry when I get back to the trailhead.
The only feature I wish this base layer had is thumb loops. A base layer without the added inches over the hand for thumb loops is automatically less desirable to me than one with them, like the L.L. Bean Midweight Crew Base Layer. Thumb loops are the perfect solution when it’s chilly out but not cold enough for gloves. Despite that missing piece, this shirt is excellent in its simplicity. It would be nice to see a broader range of sizes in this base layer, as it only goes up to 3X and fits true to size.
I highly recommend picking this shirt up if you can fit. You will enjoy it for years.
Best for: Cold weather
Sizes available: 1X - 4X
MSRP: $115
Smartwool clothing is an investment, but it’s an investment that will pay off year after year. I purchased this quarter-zip base layer top before an early December camping trip through Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Parks. Made from 100% responsibly-sourced Merino wool, its knit (the weave itself) feels secure while allowing your body to breathe and reduce odor. I wore this for nearly 10 snowy nights and days and was thankful to have this heavyweight base layer in my kit. By the time we got home, I was pleasantly surprised at how little it smelled.
compare prices on the Smartwool Classic Thermal
This shirt comes in both quarter-zip and crew neck versions, but I find the quarter-zip to be best for activity, as the ability to vent helps me manage my temperature when I move. However, I wish it had thumb holes and more size options.
For 2023-2024, Smartwool has released this baselayer up to 4X (previously, it only went to 3X). In the past, the 3X ran small. I'm a 2X in most other tops and wear a 3X in the Smartwool Thermal.
Overall, if you have the funds to invest and are comfortable with a close fit, this top will be a solid choice for your winter closet.
Best for: Budget
Sizes available: XL - 4XL
MSRP: $50
The DSG Outerwear D-Tech base layer shirt was born out of a need for quality clothing for fat folks that doesn’t just fit but also allows folks to fully enjoy the outdoors. DSG stands for “Doing Something Good.” This base layer is made of 88% Polyester and 12% Spandex (with 4-way stretch), and claims that it’s heavy enough to retain warmth in temps as low as 0°F.
compare prices on the DSG OUTERWEAR D-TECH BASE LAYER
I wore this base layer under a wool shirt from Patagonia in low 20° temperatures for an entire day of cross-country skiing, and it felt breathable as we moved and held in the heat during our rest periods. Even after three days of wear, this base layer never stank, despite the fact that I sweat moderately. This base layer shirt goes up to a 4X, which is rare among the available extended or plus size clothing on the market right now.
The author in a campground in Grand Canyon NP, wearing the Athleta Rainier Tights in black and an Athleta down jacket (discontinued).
BASE LAYERS: Bottoms
Base Layer bottoms will keep you warm, safe, and comfortable through this winter and many more to come. As with base layer tops, when purchasing base layer bottoms, you can wear synthetic or wool base layers for a solid foundation for almost any winter activity. Look for long sleeve shirts and long underwear made of wool or synthetic material that's moisture-wicking and quick-drying.
We get into layering for outdoor activities in our guide What to Wear Winter Hiking: How to Layer for Winter Hiking and Stay Safe.
Additionally, this article on how to dress for winter running has good tips on layering with a base layer and outer layers.
Base Layers can also be used year-round as hiking clothes, and you'll see recommendations here that also are in my Best Plus Size Outdoor Clothing guide.
Best for: Extreme cold
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $119
I have long been a fan of Athleta, a brand that has quietly made extended and plus-size athletic wear for years. In the last year, they have made even more radical shifts.
For example, they include their complete size range, up to 3X, in physical stores. Nearly all of their clothing models are available up to 3X.
The 1X-3X sizes are not relegated to a corner but are mixed throughout the store, offering a shopping experience that most fat and plus-size folks don’t get to have. I hope they can go beyond a 3X soon so that even more bodies can find comfortable clothing for movement.
VIEW THE ATHLETA ALTITUDE TIGHT
Not only does Athleta make an effort to meet customers’ needs in ways many other companies ignore, but it also makes high-quality athletic wear. The Altitude Tight in Polartec Power Stretch is my favorite winter tight, offering warm, thermal insulation that keeps me warm while snowshoeing and winter hiking. I am not the only one who is a fan of these winter tights, as they’re the winner of Best Winter Tights for Extra Warmth in Treeline’s Best Women’s winter Running Tights guide.
I have been wearing an older version of these tights for years, have taken them to Bryce Canyon in December, and they stayed warm and retained their shape for longer than I ever thought they would. Layered underneath snow pants or other trail pants, they are perfect base layers for even colder temperatures. The Altitude pants I purchased this year to replace my old pair feel even softer and warmer than their predecessor. In late November, I took them camping in Point Reyes, and they kept me warm all night.
The author hiking in the snow with her dog wearing the Athleta Altitude tights.
The tights sport an internal drawcord and a wide waistband that doesn’t roll down or pinch uncomfortably at my stomach; this makes for a comfortable and adjustable fit. Unlike many other Athleta tights, they lack compression, so they fit slightly looser. The looser fit is likely due to the insulation, so I am willing to make a trade-off.
Overall, these tights are wonderful shoulder season and winter tights, keeping you warm on winter runs and snowy hikes. They also last a long time, so the investment, while reasonably high for tights, feels more than worth it.
Athleta is also an activewear brand worth supporting. Two years ago, Athleta announced that they would put all “5500 of their store associates through a mandatory inclusive sizing training,” better equipping their staff to support customers looking for extended sizing.
Athleta also said they’d expand their plus size offerings, charge the same for all sizes, and not separate plus sizes in stores—so I could walk into a brick-and-mortar Athleta store and find my size on the same rack as an XS. We’ve noticed the same inclusivity on their website, where 3X offerings are on the same page as XXS. These might seem like little concessions, but it feels like a radical move in a world that doesn’t often see fat bodies as athletic bodies.
Best for: Layering, snowshoeing
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $50
L.L. Bean has been making snow gear in extended sizes for years, and these L.L. Bean Midweight Base Layer Tights are an example of L.L. Bean’s consistent creation of high-quality clothing for most bodies. Sustainably made with recycled materials, these base layers are 100% polyester and made for movement.
VIEW THE L.L.BEAN MIDWEIGHT BASELAYER
This long underwear is form-fitting without a high level of compression. While many leggings cut into my stomach when bending or moving, the L.L. Bean Midweight Base Layer pants do not. Worn under snow pants, they feel warm and well-fitting, though I wouldn’t recommend them as a stand-alone pant while adventuring in the snow. In shoulder seasons, they’re also great as a midweight bottom for day hiking, and I’m comfortable layering these under a hiking pant in light snow to keep off the chill.
According to reviews, these leggings can run small, but in my experience, they fit true to size—but sizing up might be a good place to start. According to the size chart, these base layers go up to a 3X, or a 24/26.
Best for: Cold weather
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $119
Athleta is my right hand, my go-to—apparently, it gets me so excited I quote Drake—and that’s for good reason. The Athleta Rainier tights keep me toasty on the trail, and the fit is perfect. The Rainier tights are amazingly soft, almost like a fleece, and can be worn as a standalone pant during shoulder seasons or as a warm base under ski pants.
VIEW THE ATHLETA RAINIER TIGHTS
I wear the Rainier Tight most frequently when I snowshoe—my favorite winter activity—and they keep me at a comfortable temperature. If it’s cold and snowing heavily, conditions are wet, or I’m in deep snow, I’d wear these under waterproof or snow pants to ensure that I don’t end up damp or freezing. These synthetic leggings go up to a 3X and are made from recycled materials. The pants don’t pinch at my waist or roll down after strenuous activity. I wear a 1X in these pants and find that the 3X can stretch to fit a 4X. The Rainier Tight is also the Overall Winner in our Best Winter Running Tights guide.
Athleta is a brand I love to support, and I look forward to seeing how they continue providing access to plus-size athletes and outdoors people.
Girlfriend Collective activewear centers on body-positivity. Here, the author wears the Girlfriend Collective tights around the Bay Area.
Best for: Cool weather, best sizes
Sizes available: 1X - 6X
MSRP: $78
The Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging is one of the most size-inclusive activewear options with sizes up to 6X and at least 7 color options available in all the sizes. For our Best Women's Winter Running Tights guide, I tested them on snowy trails in the Sierra Foothills.
VIEW THE GIRLFRIEND COLLECTIVE TIGHTS
Girlfriend Collective is a brand that has one of the most inclusive options for outdoor apparel, with sizing up to 6X and 3 inseam options.
Girlfriend Collective reports each pair of tights diverts 25 water bottles from landfills, prevents 18.61 pounds of Co2, and saves 3.11 gallons of water.
Packaging is recycled and recyclable.
The company also runs a recycling take-back program for when you're done with the tights.
However, I found the sizing to run small. While the high waistband is flattering, I found it occasionally rolled down. If you’re interested in this model, I recommend double-checking the Girlfriend size chart before ordering.
Mid-Layers
Mid-layers are my favorite article of outdoor clothing. As the name implies, a mid-layer is worn over a base layer but under an outer layer. On all but the coldest days, a base layer and mid-layer may be all I need to feel warm in the snow.
I love mid-layer pieces that are designed for comfort and extra warmth, so I often turn to fleece and down for layering pieces that will keep me moving throughout the day, no matter how deep the snow is.
Best for: Active insulation
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $100
For a very long time, I was very anti-vest. I didn’t like the fit — either the armholes were too small, or the overall fit was off. The REI Co-op 650 Down Vest 2.0 made me a believer, and its ability to keep my temperature regulated makes it a valuable asset in my winter closet.
VIEW THE REI CO-OP 650 DOWN VEST 2.0
If you get hot quickly, the REI 650 Down Vest is an excellent alternative to that jacket that you’ll probably take off as soon as you start to move.
My favorite thing about this vest is that it is highly compressible, packing down to the size of its own pocket. For that reason, I bring it along with me to almost every outdoor adventure I participate in, no matter the season.
Some of the fabric is bluesign®-approved, and it comes in plus size women's offerings up to 3X. If you needed another reason to love it, it’s more affordable than many of the other plus-size down vests that I have come across. (Plus, it’s often on sale — keep an eye on Treeline’s Deals page as we track discounts.)
Best for: Layering
Sizes available: 1X - 2 X
MSRP: $180
The North Face Denali 2 is one of the best winter outdoor jackets for plus size folks available right now. I’ve written about this jacket in the story I wrote on plus size outdoor clothing recommendations–but it’s worth noting that winter is when I get the most mileage out of this jacket. It is thick and durable, blocking out most wind without feeling overly bulky or weighing me down.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE NORTH FACE DENALI 2
When winter hiking, my go-to outfit is the Denali 2 jacket with a wool base layer and a waterproof shell in case it starts to snow.
Before I owned a ski jacket, the Denali underneath a rain shell was also my go-to for downhill skiing, and it kept me toasty. I have worn this jacket for years, and it has shown no sign of wear, and it’s just as warm as when I first bought it.
The Denali 2 is a jacket for warmth considerations, not weight — so keep this in mind if you are backpacking or want to lighten your load.
Similarly, the Denali 2 is bulky when not worn, and it doesn’t pack down well. I wear this in a 3X so I can layer, but it does run smaller than I’d like. While the Denali 2 is not listed in The North Face’s extended sizing section, the product is listed in both 2X and 3X sizes on the Denali listing.
Wearing a North Face Denali jacket in Zion National Park in December, with the Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Crew-Plus underneath. Photo Courtesy of Gabi Reyes-Acosta
I have long hoped that The North Face would expand their plus size and extended size offerings, as they’re currently dismal: only 12 products can be purchased up to a 3X on their website.
I don’t usually like to purchase from retailers that don’t bother to see the value in offering products for plus-size consumers, but the Denali 2 is a high-quality mid-layer that has kept me warm for many years. If the 3X runs too small, I recommend checking the “men’s” section, where an XXL might have a better fit in the chest and stomach area.
The North Face also sells pre-owned apparel in the North Face Renewed, which (depending on their inventory) can be an option to find affordable plus-size clothing.
Best for: Layering
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $109
I found the LL Bean Hi-Pile Fleece Pullover because I’ve spent much of my adult life hoping that Patagonia would release plus-size outdoor clothing.
VIEW THE L.L.BEAN HI-PILE FLEECE
While I may not be able to own a Patagonia Synchilla–which maxes out at an XXL and has always been high on my list of most wanted gear items — the search for something similar led me to the Hi-Pile Fleece Pullover from L.L.Bean. While it wasn’t my first choice, it’s become one of my favorite clothing items, no matter the season.
The high collar on the Hi-Pile Fleece keeps my neck warm, and the zippered pockets keep my small items secure when I’m on the move. The fit is solid — it’s not as bulky or heavy as the North Face Denali 2 jacket, and it skims over my body without being too close to it. I wear a 2X in this — I find L.L.Bean sizing consistently feels true. If you plan to layer bulky items underneath, consider sizing up.
Outer Layers: Tops
When I’m hitting the slopes, I turn to layers that will keep me snug and dry. When the forecast calls for heavy snow, an outer layer will keep me warm and dry and ready for anything. Outer layers include down jackets for insulation as well as more waterproof ski layers.
For more on what to look for in a snow jacket or shell, see our How to Choose a Women's Ski jacket guide. For insulating layers, see our guides on Best Down Jackets and Best Synthetic Jackets.
The author hiking in the snow in the Outdoor Research Cold Front jacket.
Best for: Lightweight, packable
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $279
The Outdoor Research Cold Front Down Hoodie will quickly become a mainstay in my daily life, and for a good reason.
I first tested this hoodie while camping in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where it dipped into the 40s, and the misty cold seemed to be trapped beneath the redwoods. I wore a men’s fleece jacket from the Kavu outdoor clothing brand that is no longer being sold (Kavu, please start making plus sizes!) and a synthetic workout shirt from Athleta, and neither provided nearly enough warmth. Once the Cold Front Hoodie came on, I felt warm and comfortable.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE OUTDOOR RESEARCH COLD FRONT HOODIE
While the Outdoor Research rain jacket felt tight, the Cold Front felt comfortable, roomy enough on my torso to fit a medium-weight fleece underneath. The pockets are deep, with thumb loops on the arms — both details I love in a down jacket.
The fill is responsibly sourced 700+ fill-down insulation (an excellent weight for a down jacket). The hood is adjustable. It has a drawstring at the back to tighten the top of the head. I also appreciated the high and warm neckline on the jacket.
The cinch on the OR Coldfront Down jacket hood keeps it tightly around your face for when the wind blows.
The outside of the hoodie is 53% recycled ripstop fabric that blocked the strong coastal breezes — gusts that blew strong enough to batter the tent.
In the middle of the night, I went on a night hike and sat in a cold and windy meadow. My partner was cold in his old down jacket, but I felt completely comfortable.
It is important to note that while relatively light, this jacket is better suited for car camping, shorter hikes, and around town. The hoodie does not pack down, and I would not find it suitable for backpacking. The Cold Front hoodie is worth the price and will be a workhorse in my winter and shoulder season wardrobe.
Note: REI sells up to XXL in the women’s Cold Front Hoodie but up to XXXL in the men’s version. Right now, Outdoor Research’s website is the only place to find the XXXL women’s hoodie.
Best for: Waterproof, snowsports
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $199
L.L.Bean appears on this list often and for a good reason. Their plus-size offerings are relatively extensive, and they have all the pieces necessary to build a ski or snowboard closet. The Wildcat jacket is my favorite of L.L.Bean’s outerwear offerings. It’s warm without adding unnecessary weight and has features that speak to a designer’s attention to detail.
VIEW THE L.L. BEAN WILDCAT JACKET
The L.L. Bean Wildcat jacket took many hits on a recent snow trip, keeping the author (and the dog treats in her pocket) dry through the day.
I brought this jacket snowshoeing in the Mokelumne Wilderness this winter, and the features made the Wildcat stand out.
This parka has synthetic insulation and is lined with nylon and filled with recycled polyester, and the shell has TEK waterproofing, so no matter how many times I fell in the snow, I never got damp.
The removable hood can be zipped for a close fit around the face and seems large enough to accommodate a helmet if you wear one while hitting the slopes.
The length is also perfect — long enough to cover my rear but not so long as to get in the way. The hem has a drawcord, and the sleeves are closed with velcro, which is excellent protection from falling snow or rain. And if you find yourself overheating, it packs down surprisingly small — it easily fits into my daypack along with everything else I needed. L.L.Bean gives this a "warmest jacket" rating, which means it's suitable for light activity to 20° and moderate activity to -30°.
The Wildcat is much more than just a ski jacket. It’s great for ski trips. But it’s also great for winter walks in the neighborhood, snowy hiking trips, or just to throw on while shoveling snow. I wear a 3X in this jacket, and I find it roomy and accommodating enough to layer a fleece underneath.
And while many plus-size winter coats leave our bodies looking blocky or unnecessarily bulky, the cut of the Wildcat is flattering. So is the price, for that matter — at $200, it’s cheaper than many ski jackets of the same caliber.
Best for: Waterproof, snowsports, versatility
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $210
I love a multi-purpose jacket, especially if it keeps budget in mind. The Columbia Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange sports a waterproof, seam-sealed nylon shell to protect you from even the most substantial snowfall and comes with a removable fleece jacket for a warm mid-layer.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE COLUMBIA BUGABOO II FLEECE INTERCHANGE
For $200, the price of many shell jackets, you can get a shell, a fleece, and a meant-to-be-paired combo that doesn’t sacrifice quality. The Bugaboo II is made with Columbia’s OMNI-TECH technology, providing waterproof protection while preventing you from feeling too hot.
The waterproofing on this winter coat is dialed in. I’ve stood in both pouring rain and rolled in the snow in these and have not found any leaks. And the hood is adjustable (and removable, if necessary). This winter coat goes beyond the ski run or the trail and can be used in everyday life.
I don’t find the fleece inner layer to be as warm as the L.L.Bean Hi Pile Fleece Pullover or the Denali 2 from The North Face, but it should suffice if you’re moving around a bit. Like all plus-size clothing, I highly recommend checking the size chart to ensure that your measurements align with the brand’s size. I’ve worn this jacket in a true-to-size 2X, but I know that Columbia products can run small, so you may want to size up.
Outer Layers: Bottoms
I often choose a water-resistant hiking pant or activewear leggings like the Athleta Rainier Tight in Plush Supersonic as winter hiking clothes or while snowshoeing. This is because I feel too warm in most insulated snow pants.
But when cold weather calls for heavy snow, or if I’m hitting the slopes, I turn to layers that will keep me snug and dry. No matter how many times I fall off my skis or posthole while hiking in the snow, I know I’ll be protected and ready for anything.
For more on what to look for in snow pants and shell pants, see How to Choose Women's Ski Pants.
Best for: Budget
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $130
Columbia’s Bugaboo II pants are some of the best plus-size snow pants available for sizes 1X-3X. They’re Made-in-the-USA snow pants packed with features that are especially helpful for fat bodies.
For example, with some structured pants, I struggle to keep the waist from either rolling down or pinching me when I sit, but the adjustable waist on the Bugaboo doesn’t sit too low or too high. I have spent dozens of hours in these snow pants on numerous weeklong trips. They stayed strong the entire time.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE COLUMBIA BUGABOO PANTS
In her Columbia Bugaboo Pants, the author spent an entire day—from 9 AM to sundown—in the snow and never got wet or cold. She’s also wearing The North Face’s Denali 2 Fleece.
The Columbia Bugaboo Omni-Heat Pants sport an internal gaiter at the cuff, ensuring that I didn’t get snow in my hiking boot while walking in deep snow spots.
One of my favorite things about the Bugaboo pants has little to do with function: the color options.
Ski and snowboarding gear comes in vibrant colors and patterns, but extended sizes are often overlooked and given only two or three color options.
These pants come in 8 colors, and though they lack prints, there are still enough choices for you to build a stylish outfit that stands out on the mountain.
One of my least favorite things? They don’t stretch, and the sizing isn’t forgiving, as they run just a bit small. I wear a 2X in these pants, but I could easily size up. If you wear above a 3X, these pants will unfortunately not work for you. Hopefully, Columbia will expand their sizing further because these pants are too high quality to be unavailable to more plus-size customers.
Best for: Value
Sizes available: 1X - 3X
MSRP: $149
The Powderbound Insulated snow pants from REI are another solid option for insulated, waterproof, and environmentally conscious pants to take on your next ski or snowboarding trip. The Powderbound Insulated pants, like much of REI’s offerings, are made with materials that meet bluesign criteria or are recycled. They’re also made in a Fair Trade Certified factory, which feels good when purchasing clothing.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE REI POWDERBOUND INSULATED SNOW PANTS
Near the Carson Pass the author rested during a hike in her REI Powderbound Insulated Snow Pants her L.L. Bean Wildcat Jacket.
When it comes to features, I love the vents on the inner thighs, which can easily unzip to prevent overheating. These pants feel fitted and not too baggy or roomy on the leg, as is often my experience with plus-sized snow pants that are often not cut well for a fat body. My experience with poorly fitting ski pants is that walking or moving through deep snow can feel awkward and unnecessarily tricky. Instead, the Powderbound pants fit snugly — I sized up to a 3X for a perfect fit. The waistband is adjustable but is only helpful in tightening the fit rather than loosening. Unfortunately, REI does not make any of their plus-size offerings in sizes above a 3X, but hopefully, that will change soon.
I like the sleek black color, but I wish REI offered more color options. The matching winter jacket, the Powderbound Insulated Jacket, comes in only two colors. I recommend purchasing a pair if you can catch these pants during an REI sale, especially if you are just starting to build your winter closet.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING PLUS-SIZE WINTER OUTDOOR CLOTHING
When choosing winter clothing for outdoor adventuring, it’s vital to pick pieces that are designed to keep you dry, warm, and appropriate for the conditions you’ll be in. It can be difficult to find gear for plus-size folks that checks all the necessary boxes, but knowing where to look and what to look for can be a solid place to start.
Choosing what to spend money on is a privilege for many, but I have found that an initial investment in the correct winter clothing yields lots of wear over many seasons, ultimately saving me money while remaining more sustainable (keeping clothing out of landfills) and more durable than fast fashion options.
SIZE AND FIT CONSIDERATIONS
I pay attention to fit: whether the inseam is long enough, whether the pockets are big enough for my necessities, whether the waist will pinch me when I bend, or slide off when I climb over logs or trudge through deep snow, and whether the jackets and pieces I use will zip or button close while allowing for essential layering underneath.
Sometimes, the size on the label does not align with my everyday/non-outdoor clothes, and I try to keep this in mind when looking for gear. Many outdoor retailers and brands run small in their sizes, or don’t make a size in “women’s” that is long enough or roomy enough for me. Prioritizing fit over sizing numbers, and not being afraid to try out pieces that may seem too big, too small, or in a different clothing section than I usually shop in, has been extremely helpful for me in sourcing gear that is comfortable.
MATERIAL AND INSULATION
It has taken me a long time to have a closet that is suitable for most winter activities. I have spent years being too wet, too weighed down, or just outright cold because I opted for clothing made of cotton, or material that is too lightweight for the job I’m asking it to do. With more options for plus-size folks in base, mid, and outer layers, it’s much easier to find clothing that will help you stay outside for longer.
Look for mid and heavy-weight base layers that are made with merino wool. Layers are my best friend when I’m outside in the winter, so having a fleece mid layer, a down jacket on top, and a packable waterproof layer are vital to staying dry and warm. When I’m skiing or in heavy snow, I also turn to an insulated waterproof layer.
WEATHER CONDITIONS AND ACTIVITY TYPE
The choice of clothing should be tailored to the specific winter weather conditions and activities you plan to engage in. Consider:
COLD AND DRY
Cold and dry is one of my favorite outdoor conditions to adventure in. If wet weather is safely not in the forecast, I like to layer a wool base layer legging underneath a pair of trail pants, usually accompanied by a base layer top, a fleece, and a waterproof layer or down jacket on top. I love to hike in leggings, and will often opt for a pair of insulated running or hiking tights instead of trail pants. I love to throw on an insulated vest and a beanie or balaclava to protect from cold winds.
WET AND MILD
In wet and mild conditions, staying dry is key. I again, will wear a trail pant and base layers, since my hiking pants are water resistant and stand up to all but extreme rain. Above my fleece layer, I’ll add a waterproof layer that is light and easy to move in.
EXTREME COLD
Extreme cold calls for layers, layers, and more layers. I will often pair base layers on top and bottom and include an additional synthetic top with insulated waterproof pants or a bib (especially if there is lots of snow present). I will also include a fleece layer and a down jacket on top. If snow or condensation is present, an insulated jacket is a must. Warm, wool socks, beanies (or balaclavas), and gloves are also a must.
LEVEL OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
It’s vital to choose gear that aligns with the winter activity you plan to do. Fleece layers that aren’t windproof are not useful when hiking in high elevations where wind is often strong. Layers that lack breathable features (whether in material or vents/openings) are not good for days spent skiing, snowshoeing, or exerting myself in ways where I may sweat and create condensation in my clothes. Condensation and moisture are the enemies of winter and can even make one prone to hypothermia if left unattended, so think closely about what you plan to do and choose your clothing accordingly. A walk in a snowy neighborhood park calls for different clothing than hiking at 8,000 feet in wind and rain.
PERSONAL CHOICES FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICS
The days of wearing gear that fits, but doesn’t align with our personal styles or personal values is largely gone thanks to brands using materials that are sustainable and aesthetically pleasing. I look for companies that are using mostly, if not all, recycled materials. When sourcing down pieces, I look for clothing that is RDS certified or otherwise uses sustainably sourced down. RDS stands for Responsible Down Standard, meaning that the down used is audited by third party certification bodies that ensure humane treatment of the waterfowl used in the process of creating down.
Some gear is also made to be compliant with the Responsible Wool Standard, which also audits animal processors to ensure humane treatment of the animals that provide the cashmere and merino wool that gear is often made with.
TIPS FOR LAYERING AND DRESSING FOR WINTER ACTIVITIES
Here are some tips and techniques to help you make the most of your winter wardrobe:
LAYERING TECHNIQUES TO STAY WARM WITHOUT OVERHEATING
Balance between insulation and ventilation is a delicate line to walk, but it’s important to find in the colder and wetter winter months. I look for gear with venting features, or is made with breathable materials such as merino wool or sweat wicking synthetic, to make sure that I remain warm without sweating.
As I mentioned above, the formula to follow when gearing up for a day spent outside in the winter should include a base layer that is appropriately weighted for the weather, a synthetic long sleeve layer atop, and a windproof fleece with a waterproof layer or insulated waterproof jacket if the weather is more extreme.
Base layer → light long sleeve shirt or leggings → insulating layer (fleece or jacket) → waterproof and windproof shell
Lastly, use zippers and vents to help let off some heat with layering.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BASE LAYERS
Choosing the right base layer is crucial for effective layering.
MOISTURE-WICKING
Sweating while moving outside in the cold is a uniquely uncomfortable experience. Avoid this by choosing sweat-wicking materials and breathable layers, such as merino wool.
QUICK DRYING
In wet weather, synthetic pieces made to not retain wetness or get weighed down by it are essential.
MATERIALS
Merino wool, down, and synthetic hiking and down pieces are the best materials to use in the winter.
REGULATE BODY TEMPERATURE
Layering is winter’s best friend, and doing so will allow you to shed layers as you warm up and add them back on when the chill hits. Using the correct materials also ensures that you stay in tune with how your body is feeling.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEIGHT BASE LAYER FOR THE TEMPERATURES AND ACTIVITY LEVEL
Base layers come in light, mid, and heavy weights. Winter is not the time for light base layers in all but the warmest and driest climates. When I adventured in winter in coastal California, I always opted for mid-weight layers to keep me warm against strong winds. In the snowy and cold Mountain West, I opt for heavy-weight layers to help me battle the extreme winter.
FIT
Remember to look for gear that not only zips closed, but actually fits. Clothing that fits at the body but isn’t constricting is best. Since you should be layering during your time outdoors, you’ll need clothes with enough space for additional pieces underneath, so opt for less bulk in the gear you choose.
TIPS FOR ADDING AND REMOVING LAYERS AS NEEDED
Acknowledge changing weather by paying attention to the forecast
Adapt as the weather changes during your trip: Is the snow coming down? Add your waterproof shell. Is there wind picking up snow and blowing it on you with lots of force? Ensure you have a windproof fleece and face protection like a balaclava. Do not wait until your clothes get wet or cold to add or subtract your layers, as doing so can result in an uncomfortable or unsafe time outside.
What to do if you feel too warm: Shed your insulated or down layer when feeling warm. If I know I will be moving a lot and am not worried about a snow or rain storm, I will often opt for a down vest over my fleece instead of a down jacket, where my arms will be freer while my core stays warm.
What to do if you feel too cold: I find the cold to be best thwarted by having options of jackets that work best for what I’m doing- such as down jackets or insulated outer layers that will warm me up. Accessories will also help this, so I always bring gloves, a beanie and neck/face protection when I go out in the cold to ensure that my extremities stay warm. Pay attention to extremities (hands and feet)
Outdoor and activewear brands need to center body positivity. Here, the author is wearing Girlfriend Collective tights, the only brand in this guide available in sizes up to 6X.
Final Thoughts on the outdoor industry
fill the needs and desires of fat and plus-size consumers
Outdoor brands still have miles to go to fill fat and plus-size customers' clothing needs and desires. Still, so much needs to change before every body can find high-quality winter clothing that fits well. This list doesn’t fill that gap, but I hope it helps you find solid options for moving and taking up space in winter.
So much of the fear and uncertainty I felt around being in the snow was born out of ignorance. I didn’t know what snow safety and comfort felt like because I couldn’t find plus-size outdoor clothing that would allow me to try. Once I found options that I knew would allow me to traverse winter conditions safely, I became bolder — more willing to walk an extra mile or ski a hill I wouldn’t have tried before.
The journey to a world where all bodies are honored is still a long one, but with more outdoor and activewear brands expanding their sizing options or centering body-positivity like Athleta, hopefully, more outdoor and athletic retailers will follow suit. Until that time comes, you can still be outside and taking up space.
Until that time comes, you can still be outside, taking up every inch of space that you deserve.
