travel and rhum

How do y'all like to layer for the winter? I figure this thread could be a good launching board for newcomers to hiking.

I tend to overheat very easily and sweat both readily and heavily. I use as few layers as possible to prevent sweating.

My layers typically involve a weather layer (just got an Outdoor Research Ferrosi hoodie, and it's perfect for my climate) on top of a long-sleeved synthetic shirt. If it gets below 20°F, I may add a waffle top between those two layers. Below 10°F, I trade my waffle top for a grid fleece. For snow and rain, I have a Janji Rainrunner to replace the Ferrosi hoodie. For extreme cold, I have a military surplus Gore-Tex parka.

For pants, I wear BDU pants. I almost never add any insulation. However, if it's below 10°F and/or extremely inclement weather, I have waffle bottoms and Gore-Tex pants to put on.

For boots, I use Asolo 520's with midweight full cushion Darn Tough or Smartwool socks. I almost never need heavier socks as I try to avoid sweating. I just picked up a new pair of Asolo Fugitives after having been away from them for awhile, and they're doing well. They're not fantastic for snow. They don't insulate nearly as well as the leather 520's, but they're good for breathability.

Gloves are Smartwool liner gloves underneath SKD PIG cold weather gloves.

For my head and face, I use a military fleece beanie and Smartwool neck gaiter.

That's pretty much it for my layers. How about yours?

It feels like a very silly thing to potentially stop me, but last time I had a tick on me I couldn't bring myself to remove it, because I was too scared to touch it, let alone risk leaving its head in me while removing it.

If I'm on the trail, I'll probably get ticks sometimes right? Not sure what to do here.

My partner and I will be visiting Moab on the week between Christmas and New year. What are your favorite day hikes at arches or canyon lands? We'll have microspikes in case it's snowy/icy. I'd love to do slot canyon hike if there are any within driving distance (I realise this isn't a slot hot spot lol). Thanks!!