Ahhhh…winter in Toronto. Anxiety abounds when this topic comes up with our clients. There’s a lot to know…to do and to shop for but we are resolved that it’s a little easier with the right planning and of course the right state of mind! We recently wrote about a client’s experience with their first winter here…and here comes a local’s perspective to round out relo-to‘s recommendations for winter in Toronto.
- For outerwear, speak to the experts. Go early in the day to a store like MEC – Mountain Equipment Co-op, hunt down an experienced sales associate and explain that this is your first winter in Toronto. Ask for their advice
- I have to be honest – sometimes practical needs to trump fashion. But that’s OK – everyone makes the same sacrifice
- There is sticker shock associated with winter coats, snow-suits and boots. You will want something that is wind and water resistant, well insulated and has staying power. It’s great to have a nice-looking wool coat for work, but it won’t make you comfortable while you’re tobogganing down one of Toronto’s best hills
- Toronto has a great market for “gently used, second hand clothing” stores. Perfect for children’s wear
- Boots are important! They need to be water proof, insulated and with a non-skid sole. They should be comfortable and be able to take the punishment of snow and slush and definitely salt. DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO BUY BOOTS! They get picked over quickly…and if you wait until the snow really starts flying, you may find yourself wearing something you hate
- Weather-proof your leather foot wear. Salt is a huge bummer to leather
- Hats and gloves and scarves…are all important! If you have children…buy many pairs. Seriously, they will loose them! Quantity may be more important than quality
- There are different kinds of snow – too many to count here. The thing to know is that some snow is wetter and heavier than others. You’ll want to dress accordingly
- Layering your clothing is often touted as the best strategy…it will keep you warmer. It’s easier to take layers off than to add them on
- If you live in a house, please shovel. It’s the neighbourly thing to do. If that’s not incentive enough, the city can levy fines if you don’t and your insurance company may not be so generous if someone slips and falls on your property due to negligence
- Dogs hate getting salt in their paws. Yes, people buy booties for their dogs
- The air is dry and your skin will definitely notice. Good moisturizers can be your best friend…and consider investing in a humidifier for your home
- When you’re walking, look down. That glassy looking stuff is ice. And it’s super slippery
- While schools occasionally get a “snow day”, generally people (including employers) expect you to still show up regardless of the weather
Check out the festive outdoor markets, ice-sculpture contests, Winterlicious 2019, fireworks on New Years Eve, build a snow-man or find your favourite place to sip hot-chocolate. Stay close to what’s happening in and around your neighbourhood. You’ll probably be surprised to find out what’s on offer!
Yes, it’s a little long. But it really is a beautiful, magical time of year!