What to Wear in 40-Degree Weather

It’s that time of year when the temperature fluctuates between warm and cold many times throughout the day. This type of weather may be confusing to dress for—especially if the temperature is hovering around 40-degrees. It’s too warm to dress for winter temperatures, but also too cold to continue wearing your summer clothes. 

Dressing for this crazy weather can be tricky. That’s why we’ve created a list of exactly what to wear in 40-degree weather. 

What 40-Degree Weather Feels Like

If you’re going to dress for 40-degree weather, you should know exactly what it feels like. Depending on where you live, 40-degrees will feel very different. 

In colder regions, 40-degree weather can be incredibly cold. The wind chill and the humidity can make it feel even colder than it actually is. Even if the sun is out. This type of cold can easily chill you to the bone and keep residents indoors until temperatures warm up.

Forty-degree weather in warmer regions may not feel as cold. Residents can still be out and about without freezing. Lighter, thinner clothes are enough to keep them warm even on colder, cloudier days.

In the end, you can expect the weather to be between cool and moderately cold. You should plan on dressing for moderately cold weather. 

Light Layers

For 40-degree weather, you’ll want to layer up. Depending on where you live, you’ll want to wear either one layer or a few. Wearing layers acts as insulation as does the air between layers.

If you’re somewhere warmer, a single layer will be enough to keep the cold out, a light jacket and some closed-toe shoes. In colder regions, you’ll want to dress in a few layers to stay warm.

Throughout the day, if you get too warm, you can easily shed a layer to lower your body temperature. 

Comfortable Jeans and Slacks

Forty-degree weather doesn’t call for long-johns or thermal underwear. Wearing jeans or dress slacks is enough to keep your legs warm. You’ll definitely want to avoid shorts unless you put leggings or tights underneath. If your job requires you to wear skirts or dresses, you’ll definitely want leggings or tights underneath or you’ll get cold quickly.

If you’re someone that really can’t handle the cold, you’ll want an extra layer underneath. Long underwear or leggings should be enough to keep you warm. 

Long-Sleeved Tees

For moderately cold weather, you’ll want to wear long-sleeved t-shirts, sweaters, or turtlenecks. If you choose to wear a short-sleeved shirt, pair it with a cardigan or light jacket to keep your arms and torso warmer.

If you’re in an area with wind chill or humidity, consider wearing a turtleneck. Sweaters with a higher neckline will help hold in warmth around your neck. 

Look for shirts made from either wool or silk. These are best for holding in warmth and keeping water away from your skin.

If you’re planning on going hiking or exercising, you may not need a long-sleeved t-shirt or additional layers as the warmth from your body should keep you warm enough. As you start your hike or exercise, make sure you warm up beforehand. You should also consider wearing a shirt made of acrylic material or a sports shirt to draw moisture away from your body.

Light Jacket or Coat

While 40-degree weather doesn’t call for a super thick jacket, you’ll want to keep a light jacket or coat nearby. However, you don’t want just any jacket. You’ll want to look for ones that provide some sort of insulation. Insulating jackets are typically lined with either fleece, wool, or faux fur. This will help keep the cold out, but can easily be removed if you get too hot.

You won’t want a jacket that goes below your waist as this can easily cause you to overheat. Look for jackets that touch just below your waist. 

For colder regions, consider purchasing a jacket that’s waterproof. You’ll want to keep any water from rain or snow away from your body so you don’t freeze. 

Keep Hats, Gloves, and Scarves Nearby

While 40-degree weather might not call for hats, gloves, or scarves, it’s not a bad idea to have those items in your car, purse, or pockets. If the temperature drops below 40-degrees later in the day, you’ll be glad to have that extra layer covering your hands, head, and neck. 

If you live somewhere with a lot of moisture in humidity, consider purchasing waterproof gloves and carrying an umbrella with you. Keeping water away from your skin is crucial to keeping warm and comfortable.

Closed-Toed Shoes

You’ll definitely want to wear closed-toed shoes for 40-degree weather. Open-toed shoes or flip flops let the heat out of your body, making your entire body cold. Opt for sneakers, dress shoes, or boots. This will keep the heat in and keep you warm throughout the day.

Consider wearing a pair of thicker socks with your shoes if it feels cold enough outside. Wool socks or cotton socks are perfect.

Gear for Any Temperature

Dressing for 40-degree weather can be tricky. The temperature can fluctuate many times throughout the day, leaving you feeling either too warm or too cold. One of the best ways to prepare yourself for 40-degree weather is with a heated jacket or heated gloves from Ravean.

Both our heated down-jackets and heated gloves feature three different heating modes: low, medium, and high. That way you get the exact amount of heat you want and can easily adjust it if you get too warm. On days where 40-degrees calls for a light jacket, our jacket provides enough warmth even without turning it on. 

All of our products are made with water-resistant, breathable material that diverts water away from your skin. So if it’s raining or there’s a lot of moisture in the air, you’ll stay totally warm and dry without feeling overheated or damp.