Coming from California all the way to Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, wasn’t an easy transition when it came to the weather. While I don’t live close to a beach or anything like that, I was still very much accustomed to a warmer climate. So, as the temperature continues to drop and snow is in the forecast, I have collected a short list of all the ways I keep cozy at Swat!
Layers!
Layers are ESSENTIAL at Swat! I suggest warm pants, an undershirt, a sweater, and a jacket on top of that with gloves, a scarf, and a hat to keep your ears warm. This may sound like a lot, but if you’re like me and you get cold very easily, then this is the route for you! Plus, once you get in the warmth of the building where you take your classes, you can simply take off a layer or two if you find yourself getting too hot.
Thick Socks
There is nothing worse than cold feet on an already frigid day. To fix this, I suggest investing in some really nice warm and fuzzy socks. Not only do these provide warmth, but they also provide a sense of comfort and coziness that comes along with cold days. My favorite pair of socks has pandas on them, but the design isn’t necessary to their function, I just think they’re cute.
A Good Pair of Snow Boots
Speaking of cold feet, you’ll need more than just fuzzy socks to keep your feet warm! You will also need a nice pair of snow boots. When I say nice I mean comfortable, sturdy, and most importantly waterproof, not just water resistant! When I was a Freshman I brought a pair of water-resistant boots that worked just fine back home in California, but not so much at Swarthmore. On my trek to class through the inches of snow, by the time I got to class my feet were soaked and I had to deal with wet socks and cold feet all day. Now I love my waterproof boots that have kept me warm and dry for my time at Swat!
Mittens!
While I have focused a lot on keeping your feet warm, your hands are also an essential part of your body that need to be kept warm as well! You could get gloves that cover your entire hand, gloves with separated fingers, gloves with pads that allow you to use your phone, heated gloves, etc. The main thing is that they’re nice and warm! And if they’re perfect for making snowballs, that doesn’t hurt either.
The Perfect Winter Coat
This may come as no surprise to those who know me as I absolutely LOVE my winter coat. It is bright yellow and keeps me incredibly warm. It also doubles as a rain jacket! When looking for the perfect coat make sure the fabric isn’t something that can get soaked through easily as this will not make it through Swat’s harsher weather. At the same time, it shouldn’t be too heavy as you don’t want it to feel like a burden to put on. You also want to make sure it’s a coat that you want to wear and makes you feel good! As long as it’s warm, comfy, and makes you feel good, then that is the perfect winter coat for Swat!
Hopefully, this guide helps shed a light on how to handle the snowy winter weather of Swarthmore College! Be sure to go out and make snowmen, snow angels, etc. in your new gear!
