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Winter Gear Essentials To Tackle the Arkansas Cold.
Winter brings an awe-filled hush over the various landscapes of The Natural State. From the snowy peaks in the Ozarks to the damp, leaf-sodden forest floors, Arkansas is beautiful in the season’s stillness. Drive short of three hours from any corner of the state, from any bustling metropolis that calls Arkansas home, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in nature’s frosted beauty. From cold-weather hunting essentials to trail-ready layers and fireside comforts, we’ve gathered everything you need to stay warm and ready for every adventure. Prepare to experience the Arkansas wilderness at its most rugged with gear built to withstand every icy challenge.
Warmth at your fingertips.
Beat the winter chill with this Rechargeable Hand Warmer, an eco-friendly and compact solution for keeping warm on the coldest days. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, commuters or anyone facing chilly conditions, it heats up quickly and provides hours of warmth. Lightweight and portable, it slips easily into a pocket or glove, offering on-the-go relief. With a rechargeable battery, this hand warmer is both convenient and sustainable, reducing the need for disposables. Check out Fuller and Sons Hardware for yours.
Boots on the ground. The Renegade GTX Mid has been a top hiking boot choice for more than 25 years, setting the standard for durability and comfort. Perfect for on-trail day hikes and light backpacking, this boot’s Derby-cut design fits various foot shapes for a custom feel. Its DuraPU MONOWRAP frame and full-length stabilizer offer outstanding stability, while rugged nubuck leather uppers handle tough conditions. With a Vibram Evo sole, the Renegade provides secure traction on slick and uneven trails — ideal for winter hikes. Find yours at Ozark Outdoor Supply in Little Rock.
Slay the sleigh ride. Rediscover the joy of winter with the iconic Flexible Flyer Sled. This classic sled features flexible steering for smooth rides on snowy hills. Its sturdy construction, designed to withstand the test of time, makes it perfect for kids and adults alike, offering generations of fun and memories. The sled’s steel runners and wooden slats provide a nostalgic yet reliable design that’s built for adventure. The coveted Flexible Flyer is a timeless addition to any winter outing. Whether you’re introducing the next generation to sledding or reliving childhood memories, this sled is ready for action. Bring home yours from Domestic, Domestic.
Winter warmth, elevated. Stay warm and comfortable in winter with the Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew. Made from 100% Merino wool, it naturally breathes, wicks moisture and resists odor – perfect for cold-weather activities like skiing, hiking and more. The interlock knit construction regulates warmth, while shoulder panels and flatlock seams ensure a smooth, chafe-free fit under backpacks. Updated with a slim fit, new colors and enhanced features, it’s designed for both style and functionality. Ideal for high-movement activities, this base layer is essential for staying warm on the go. Get it at Pack Rat Outdoor Center in Fayetteville.
The good, the bag, and the cozy. The Marmot Helium 15° sleeping bag is ideal for winter hikers and backpackers seeking warmth without bulk. Made with certified 800-plus fill power goose down and a lightweight Pertex Microlight shell, it balances warmth and packability at just 2 pounds, 4.5 ounces — perfect for chilly Arkansas nights. Features like the Nautilus multi-baffle hood, anatomically designed footbox and smooth-curved baffles keep warmth evenly distributed. With a 15-degree rating and EN-tested reliability, it’s the top choice for cold-weather adventurers. Pick yours up at Gearhead Outfitters.
For nights by the fireside. Wrap yourself in warmth with the Cushy Blanket, a luxuriously soft throw perfect for chilly days indoors or by the campfire. Crafted by Matouk, it combines comfort and style, making it an ideal winter essential for your home or cabin. The high-quality fabric offers a plush feel that’s both durable and inviting, perfect for adding extra warmth this winter. Whether you’re settling in for a winter movie night or unwinding after a day outdoors, the Cushy Blanket delivers on warmth and comfort with a timeless, elegant design. Lightweight yet incredibly soft, it’s an everyday luxury you’ll reach for again and again. Find yours at Five Oaks Outfitters.
Hold on to the heat. With a removable insulating liner, this muff keeps hands cozy, even on the coldest days. Unlike traditional hand muffs, the Stuff Muff offers pockets and compartments for storing essentials, plus a retractable tether system to keep items like calls or remotes within reach. Compact and easy to wear, the Stuff Muff is perfect for hunters, hikers and anyone braving frigid conditions. Find it at Webb’s Sporting Goods in DeWitt.
Rough it like a pro. Stay warm and protected in any weather with this Reversible Gaiter, a must-have for outdoor winter activities. The reversible design offers two color options, giving you flexibility in style without sacrificing warmth. Made from durable, insulating material, this gaiter provides reliable protection against the elements while remaining breathable and comfortable for all-day use. Its easy-to-wear, snug fit ensures it stays in place, offering warmth where you need it most. Grab one from the Survival Mode in Springdale.
Winter warmth in every cup. Bring the comfort of perfect coffee to your winter camp or cabin with the Stanley/Pendleton Pour-Over Set. Featuring Stanley’s rugged build and Pendleton’s signature Yakima Camp and Wildland Heroes patterns, this set brings cozy winter vibes. Purchases of the Wildland Heroes pattern support the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, aiding firefighters and their families. This set includes a 12-ounce insulated mug and a durable, stainless steel pour-over filter — no paper needed, just fresh, handcrafted coffee. Pick up yours at Hike House in Eureka Springs.
All images courtesy of vendors
