Gimmicks, such as battery-powered electric socks, can be a big disappointment in cold weather. For most anglers, rubber or rubber and leather boots with heavy felt liners, good quality insulated rubber boots designed for extreme cold or government surplus arctic boots with air chambers for insulation are best. Above the boots, several layers of comparatively light clothing are warmer than just one or two bulky garments. The layers trap air for maximum warmth and also allow the angler to add or remove layers to match changes in temperature or level of activity. Perspiring should be avoided since the body will later use considerable heat to dry out damp inner clothing.
Good headgear is particularly important.
Up to 75 percent of the heat lost on a cold day leaves the body from the head and neck. A wool cap or parka hood can provide comfort when you feel a chill, and if you are on the verge of breaking into a sweat you can cool off merely by exposing your head. Comfortable long underwear worn next to the skin topped by insulated coveralls or a wool, down or fiberfill insulated snowmobile suit for a middle layer and a windproof, moisture repellent outer layer make a good combination. Many anglers also wear a heavy parka for added warmth and as a barrier against the wind. Gloves are also needed, although the importance placed on them varies among anglers.