Have you ever been underprepared and it shows? Maybe you didn’t practice your lines enough for a work presentation. Maybe you planned dinner without making sure you had all the ingredients. Whatever the case–we have all been there.

But a situation you can’t afford to be underprepared? On an icy mountain with below-freezing temperatures. The right kind of preparation won’t only be nice or make things more comfortable–it could save your life.

When hiking in cold weather, it is essential to have the right gear. Without the proper items, you may be putting yourself at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, or other serious conditions. Here are five must-have pieces of equipment for cold-weather hikes:

1. Insulated Jacket:

An insulated jacket is an essential piece of cold-weather hiking gear. It is designed to protect the body from extreme cold by providing extra layers of warmth, while also staying lightweight and breathable. Insulated jackets are usually made from synthetic or down materials, both of which provide excellent insulation and protection against the cold.

Synthetic materials are especially useful because they dry quickly, have a great warmth-to-weight ratio, and resist moisture. Down jackets tend to be lighter but may not keep you warm as long as it gets wet from rain or snow.

Insulated jackets are a must for cold-weather hiking.

2. Waterproof Pants:

If you plan to hike in wet conditions, waterproof pants are essential to keep out moisture and keep your legs warm. Look for a pair that is breathable and offers good movement.

3. Hats, Scarves, and Gloves:

These are the most important items to pack for cold-weather hikes. Look for warm hats with ear flaps, thick scarves, and gloves made from wool or synthetic materials.

4. Thermal Base Layer:

A thermal base layer is a type of clothing worn directly against the skin to retain body heat, preventing the wearer from becoming chilled.

Thermal base layers are made of lightweight, breathable fabrics that trap small pockets of air for insulation, helping keep the wearer warm even in extreme cold weather conditions. These garments also wick moisture away from the skin, helping reduce the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.

Look for items that are lightweight yet offer good warmth, such as merino wool or synthetic fabrics.

5. Gaiters:

Gaiters are an important piece of cold-weather hiking gear. Gaiters are protective clothing items that cover the feet and lower legs. They provide protection from snow, rain, and other elements.

Gaiters are usually made from waterproof fabrics like nylon or polyester and have a tight fit around the calf to keep out moisture and debris. If you are going on a serious cold-weather hike, you will want to invest in a nice pair of gaiters.

These five items of cold-weather hiking gear are essential for keeping you safe and comfortable on your next expedition in frigid temperatures. Without them, you may be putting yourself at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, or worse. So make sure to pack all the necessary items before heading out into the cold–don’t be underprepared. Stay safe, and happy trails!