When it's cold outside, many tips circulate on how best to keep warm.
But not everything you hear about winter, cold weather, and clothing is true.
Some "wisdom" persists for years, even though it does more harm than good in the real world.
Here are 5 cold-weather myths you should forget when winter hiking – and what's really behind them.
1. Myth 1: "The more layers, the warmer it is "
More clothing does not automatically mean more warmth.
Too many layers can block breathability, and if you start to sweat, you'll quickly get cold afterwards.
✅ Correct is:
The onion system only works if each layer fulfills its purpose:
- Baselayer: Wicks away moisture (e.g., merino wool)
- Midlayer: Retains heat (e.g. fleece or down)
- Outer layer: Protects against wind and moisture (e.g., hardshell)
2. Myth 2: "Cold makes you sick"
Cold itself does not cause a cold, but viruses do.
Nevertheless, being cold weakens the immune system because the body uses energy for temperature regulation.
✅ Correct is:
Cold weather doesn't automatically lower your immune system, but it can dry out your mucous membranes, making you more susceptible to infections.
So: stay warm, drink regularly and keep moving.
3. Myth 3: "Alcohol warms you from the inside"
A mulled wine after the tour sounds tempting, but alcohol dilates the blood vessels.
This causes warm blood to reach the skin's surface more quickly, making you feel warm briefly, but you actually cool down faster.
✅ Correct is:
Alcohol does not protect against the cold, but increases the risk of hypothermia.
Better: hot tea or ginger water.
4. Myth 4: "If the sun is shining, it is not dangerously cold"
A classic misconception. Even in sunshine, sub-zero temperatures and wind can cool the body down significantly.
Especially during winter hikes in the mountains, the cold is often underestimated.
✅ Correct is:
The perceived temperature difference due to wind can be up to 10 °C.
Windproof clothing is therefore more important than thick clothing. Gloves, a headband, and a buff are essential, as most heat is lost through the head, hands, and feet.
5. Myth 5: "Those who move cannot freeze"
Movement generates heat, yes – but it does not replace appropriate clothing.
Those who sweat heavily and then stop risk the opposite: rapid cooling due to evaporative cooling.
✅ Correct is:
Regular, steady movement will keep you warm, and breaks in the wind or snow should be short.
Never sit directly on cold surfaces, and always wear an insulating layer when resting.
