Gear for the Winter Beach

The relative tranquility of wind-swept beaches and the promise of storm-tossed shards thrown up onto the shore ought to be more than enough to get you out there. Whether you're hunting on snowy sands, hunkering down with a trowel to dig, or just exploring the crisp winter beach scenery, these goods ought to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable.

UA Armour Liner Gloves

These thin, fitted liner gloves can be worn on their own or as a first layer under heavier gloves in harsher conditions. By themselves, they are perfect for glassing. UA Storm finish repels rain & snow while still being breathable and they will keep your digits toasty without extra weight. Tech Touch print on thumbs & fingers allow you to use touch screen devices without taking your gloves off and the added ‘traction’ of the grid print will make grabbing sea glass easier than a heavier glove. The tapered wrists will keep the harsh wind or falling snow off your arms. 

LL Bean Parka

Perfect for winter beachcombing, this winter coat can take care of you in some pretty rough conditions. The insulation in the body, sleeves and hood will keep you warm; the faux fur hood will keep the snow from your head and face; and the split-back hem is perfect for the bending and stooping to collect treasures. Also features a security pocket inside for phone and keys, and snap cuffs to fasten over your gloves. 

Ghostek Waterproof Case

(available for LG, Galaxy, IPhone, and Samsung Phones)

Slim and fitted with seven layers of protection, this waterproof case can make your trek to the beach worry-free. It’s tested for up to 20-feet deep and 1 hour in the water and some models have the added bonus of a kickstand and HD clear scratch-resistant screen guard. 

geckobrands Floatable Waterproof Phone Case

This is more of a pouch, which will require proper use of the seal brackets and protection from sharp objects. The lanyard makes for hands-free carrying, and it protects against rain, sand, dirt, water, and snow. Best part? This case floats on the water’s surface—no kerplunk to the bottom of the lake or ocean—and is designed to submerge for up to one hour. 

Sorel Joan of Arctic Waterproof Boots

The full-grain leather is waterproof, while the recycled felt inner liner adds extra warmth, but is removable for thick, bulky socks. The herringbone rubber bottom provides excellent traction. Oh, and they’re pretty enough to wear when not at the beach, as well!

Le Chameau Vierzonord Wellingtons

Hand-crafted in France since 1927, the Vierzonord is the Cadillac of wellies. A great, waterproof boot with adjustable gusset and lined with 3mm of neoprene (which was originally used to make diving suits and has excellent insulating properties). The combination of natural rubber and neoprene allow the boot to flex easily, mirroring any foot movement, reducing fatigue when walking.

Knit Beanie with Visor

Keep the warmth in and the snowflakes at bay with a fleece-lined, rib-knit hat. The visor keeps the sun out of your eyes—a paramount concern of the winter beachcomber—and the snow off your nose.

Warby Parker Polarized Lenses Sunglasses

While we encourage the use of polarized lenses, which reduce the glare of the sun (UV protection) and eye strain (not to mention revealing colors and images like never before!) we just don’t think you need to spend so many hundreds of dollars on sunglasses. Take these Warby Parkers: stylish, polarized and … wait for it… this particular color is named Beach Glass, with grey lenses. What’s not to love? 

This article appeared in the Glassing Magazine January/February 2018 issue.

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