A Winter Guide for the NYC Commute

All it takes is one workday blizzard or ice storm to knock even the most winter-loving commuter down a peg or two.

During your NYC commute, just remember that there's an amazing array of technology and tools that can help you through even the chilliest commute. Here are a few of our favorites.

Start at the Bottom

Good boots are literally the foundation for the perfect winter commuter's outfit. The best boots are waterproof and warm, of course, but they should also be comfortable for walking in all types of weather including snow, sleet and rain. Make sure the outsoles offer ample traction and are well-sealed. Uppers made of waterproofed nylon or leather are good choices, and linings should be suitable for the climate you'll be grappling with most often. When it comes to closures, pull-on or zipper styles may be easiest to take on and off, but laced boots are typically more comfortable if you're covering long distances on foot. Top-notch winter boots can be expensive, but it's an investment you're not likely to complain about when standing ankle-deep in a New York City slush puddle.

Heated Everything

We live in amazing times where fabric technologies and reduced battery sizes mean that nearly every article of clothing can now be battery-heated. That includes socks, gloves, jackets and more. There are even heated car seat covers if your current automobile lacks the heated seats option. Whether you're skiing in Vermont or waiting for the M15 bus, these gadgets will keep your digits warm and toasty all winter long.

Update Your Apps

Traffic jams and transit delays are a drag any time of year, but in winter they can put you in harm's way if you become stuck in the elements unprepared. In addition to bundling up, you'll want to make sure your commute is clear before you leave your cozy home or office. We ran down our favorite transit apps not too long ago, and all are great choices for navigating through your winter commute with confidence.

Don't Abandon Your Bike

It may sound extreme, but many a cyclist will extoll the virtues of winter bike commutes, boasting about the ability to move around closed streets and stalled subways. But before you take your summer Schwinn for a winter ride, you'll want to address some equipment issues. First, make sure your apparel fits the bill with appropriate jacket, pants, gloves and some type of head and face covering, like a heated balaclava. Next, you'll want to make sure your bike is up to the task and in good working order. Your drive train will get mucked up with salt and slushy grime, so plan on attending to its maintenance and cleaning often. You may want to consider tires with extra traction, or even studded varieties, and fenders will help keep you from wearing too much street slush. Lastly, good lights — front and rear — are extra important in winter, when days are shorter and darker.

Equip Your Car

If you should find yourself sidelined in winter by traffic or car troubles, you'll be thankful you planned ahead and stashed these items inside: a first aid kit, a backup cellphone battery or portable charger, jumper cables, flares, traction material like sand or kitty litter, an ice scraper and small shovel, a blanket and non-perishable food items.

Now that we've winterized your commute, it's time to winterize your home. Read our tips and tricks for winterizing your home here.