5 looks for your outdoor activities in Quebec this winter

Spending time outdoors is as popular as ever among Quebecers who are eager to get out of the house, take a break from their screens and enjoy a change of scenery. At a time when most indoor entertainment is discouraged, restricted or prohibited altogether, you might as well take advantage of the activities that are permitted, and do it in style! In this article, the Ernest team proposes outfits to go with five fun outings that’ll give you a break from your routine and allow you to spend quality time with loved ones.

• Go skating with your partner or family bubble

Many local rinks and ice skating trails — some of which run through beautiful forested areas — are closer than you think in Quebec. Find out which options are nearest you, and get ready for a memorable few hours spent with your significant other or the kids. 

Whether you find yourself surrounded by trees or municipal buildings, make sure your skates are sharp and that you’re wearing the appropriate clothing. For skating, the essentials include:

• A warm sweater worn over a T-shirt
• Cotton velour pants (or jeans with long johns)
• A parka jacket
• Winter accessories (a hat, scarf and gloves)

 

If you want to get a game of hockey going or practise your shots, bring along sticks and a few pucks as well.

2. Stroll through a national park

If you want to get some fresh air and experience the beauty that Mother Nature has to offer, there’s no need to organize a grand expedition. Many of the Sépaq national parks, for example, keep their hiking trails open during the winter. Here are the clothes and other essentials you’ll need for a relaxing walk in the woods (other gear is necessary if you plan to make your hike an intense workout): 

• A T-shirt worn beneath a casual shirt and cardigan
• A pair of jeans or chinos
• A puffer jacket or short parka
• Ankle boots (with insulated soles and ice cleats, as needed)
• An insulated thermos of coffee or hot chocolate

3. Attend an outdoor light show or exhibition

If you want to plan a magical or romantic evening, find out whether there are any ice sculpture displays, light shows or outdoor art exhibitions set up in your neighbourhood. To ensure you make the most of the outing (and look great for selfies), take some time to put together the perfect outfit. You’ll need:

 

• A shirt worn beneath a merino sweater
• A pair of jeans or chinos
• A sleeveless puffer vest with a wool coat
• Lined leather gloves
• A winter hat
• A nice scarf

4. Visit an outdoor public market

Whether you want to prepare a meal for a regular evening or a special occasion, why not opt to use fresh, local produce? Outdoor public markets allow you to stock up on all sorts of delicacies such as cheeses, vegetables, meats and breads. Plus, you’ll get to support local businesses. If you want to look your best while you shop, bring along a reusable bag, your best face mask and wear:

• A short parka
• A half-zip sweater and shirt
• Coloured chinos (ex: blue, bronze or burgundy)
• Ankle boots

5. Relax and unwind at a cottage

Either with your partner or other members of your household, it never hurts to kick back and do nothing. After getting some fresh air on snowshoes or cross-country skis, curl up by the fireplace with a book, podcast or board game. For a cottage weekend, cosiness is key. To make sure your outfit matches the atmosphere, we suggest: 

• A round neck sweater
• Comfortable cotton pants
• Socks with a playful pattern

Enjoying the present moment is crucial to keep your spirits up during these trying times, and every minute of quality time spent with the loved ones in your bubble is precious.

Shop at Ernest to discover an impressive range of clothes and accessories that’ll allow you to show off your style in total comfort on any winter outing in 2021.