What to wear in Finland during winter?

How Cold Does It Get in Finland?

Winter temperatures in Finland vary a lot depending on where you are. In Lapland, the thermometer often hovers around –14°C (6.8°F), but it’s not unusual to see –30°C (–22°F) or even lower during the coldest months of January through March. In southern Finland, including Helsinki, Turku, and Tampere, winters are milder, usually between –5°C (23°F) and –15°C (5°F). Still, the icy winds blowing in from the Baltic Sea can make it feel much colder.

Fun fact: Sunny days are often the coldest! After months of winter darkness, locals celebrate every bit of sunlight—even if it comes with freezing air.

In recent years, climate change has made winters more unpredictable, with fluctuating temperatures and inconsistent snowfall. That’s why it’s always smart to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack clothes that can handle different conditions.

Typical Winter Temperatures in Finland

• • Southern Finland (Helsinki, Turku, Tampere): –5°C to –15°C
  • Lapland (Rovaniemi, Levi, Inari): –15°C to –30°C, sometimes even colder

And remember: add wind (on a husky ride, icebreaker) and humidity, and the cold feels much harsher than the numbers suggest.

The secret isn’t buying the thickest jacket in the world—it’s layering prope

When dressing for the Finnish winter, layering is everything—but the materials you choose are just as important as the number of layers. The wrong fabric can leave you sweaty, damp, and cold, while the right one will keep you warm and comfortable no matter how low the temperature drops.

Here’s my guide to layering, based on years of trial and error (and plenty of mistakes during my first winters in Finland!).

Base Layer (Merino Wool or Bamboo)

The base layer is your first line of defense against the cold. Its job is to keep sweat away from your skin, so you don’t get damp and chilled.

• • Merino Wool → The gold standard for Finnish winters. Breathable, moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and still warm even when damp. Perfect for base layers, socks, and gloves.
  • Bamboo → A softer, eco-friendly option. It’s breathable, hypoallergenic, and works well as a lightweight base layer.

My favorite brands for base layers: Halti, Icepeak, and Luhta (all Finnish and super durable), as well as Dilling from Denmark (my absolute favorite) and Kari Traa from Norway—stylish, functional, and very popular among women in the Nordics.

Middle Layer (Wool or Synthetic Fleece)

Your middle layer keeps the warmth in without making you overheat. Think wool sweaters, fleece hoodies, or lightweight insulated jackets.

• • Wool → Classic, durable, and naturally insulating. Great for sweaters, socks, and mid-layers.
  • Fleece (synthetic blends) → Lightweight, breathable, and dries quickly, making it ideal for active winter activities.

My go-to brands here: Alpine Nation (Slovenia, one of my faves), Devold (Norway), Ivanhoe of Sweden, Sätila of Sweden, and North Outdoor from Finland. They combine warmth with Nordic style and practicality.

Outer Layer (Waterproof & Windproof)

Your outer layer is your shield against snow, wind, and rain. This is where a proper winter jacket and pants are non-negotiable.

• • Look for down jackets or waterproof shells with snow locks, adjustable hoods, and strong zippers.
  • Waterproof pants are essential for outdoor activities and deep snow.
    

    For Kids

    Dressing children for Finnish winters is a challenge of its own. Kids need one more layer than adults, and quality matters because they spend hours rolling in snow, sledding, or building snowmen.

    My absolute go-to brands are Reima, Polar O. Pyret and Lindex—they’re exactly what my kids wear as their outer layers. Both are reliable, waterproof, and warm enough for Lapland’s coldest days, while still being practical for everyday play in the snow.

Solid Nordic options include Icepeak and Halti. You can find them in stores like Scandinavia Outdoor and Partioaitta, both trusted shops in Finland.

Socks & Shoes

Your feet will thank you if you layer correctly:

1. Start with a merino wool sock as the base.
2. Add a second wool sock for extra insulation on very cold days.
3. Use foot warmers if temperatures drop below –20°C or if you’ll be standing still outside for long periods (e.g., watching the Northern Lights).

When it comes to boots:

• • Go one size up. This gives space for layered socks and helps circulation (tight boots = frozen toes).
  • Choose longer boots to protect against deep snow and keep your legs warmer.
  • In spring, when snow turns slushy, waterproof boots are essential to keep your feet dry.

Avoid UGG boots. They might look cute, but I learned the hard way—they’re slippery, not insulated enough, and your feet will freeze fast. Instead, choose boots with thick, anti-slip soles and proper insulation.

Why Avoid Cotton?

Cotton is cozy, but not ideal for winter as it ABSORBS MOISTURE and dries slowly, leaving you cold. Stick to merino wool, bamboo, or wool for optimal warmth and comfort in freezing temperatures. Polyester blends also work well for quick-drying outer layers, but avoid using them for base layers, as they don’t wick moisture as efficiently.