New York City Travel Forum

I'll be in NYC in December, and I was wondering what types of clothes I should buy. Coming from a warm and humid climate where it only gets nippy in the winter, I doubt I have the necessary clothes. Specifically, I was wondering about jackets. I have a North Face Denali Polartec fleece jacket and a lined leather jacket. Which is best?

Since Polarfleece is made in my home town in Massachusetts, I'm partial to that, but...that's only one layer. Dec in NYC can be ah...'nippy' to say the least, but it could also be quite reasonable (the next day). I'd bring the lined leather and a polartec vest as well to layer just in case. North Face Denali implys very cold, but i'm not familiar with just how cold it will take you to. It could be zero or below or it could be in the 40-50's.

Haven't been to NY, but its winter temperatures are similar to those in the UK.

I'd suggest that a fleece will not be enough: one has to factor in windchill, and fleeces are not built for that (unless specially lined), nor for wet weather. They are designed more for layering, under wind/water proof outerwear.

If the fleece won't fit under the leather jacket, I think you need to buy another jacket (either a warmer one, or one which will go over the fleece).

Scarf, hat and gloves will also help to keep up your body temperature.

Coming from a hot climate you will feel the cold more. Explore what's available online: you may find some bargains which can be delivered before you leave.

I went on my trip to New York in May and I froze so if I was going in December I think I would need thermal undergarments. Really thick socks are also a must!.

New York, New York my favourite place, you will love it!!.

Trish

Layering is definitely the way to go. The temperature and the wind chill can be very low but, on the next day, it can be completely different. I would advise a thermal vest then shirt, sweater and fleece or leather jacket (you won't need both - not at the same time anyway!). Don't forget that every shop and restaurant you go in will have the heating turned up to tropical temperatures so be prepared to peel off!

You need more than Fleece in Dec.
Like many have said, you may need to layer just in case. I would definitely wear leather jacket & layer inside.
I am sure you can find some cheap & reasonable clothing to buy while in New York. Many sales after Thanksgiving in Late Nov & more sales after christmas.

I totally agree with what has been given in advice. Layering is the way to go in NYC. It could be freezing in the morning with windchill, and then warmer in the afternoon...however, in December, unless you're used to the 20 degrees or colder, you're going to want to have a decent coat and even several layers.

Another thing I suggest is getting yourself some ear protection (ie: hat or earmuffs), a scarf (you'll be surprised at how chilly your neck gets), and some gloves or mittens. Also make sure you have some decent boots or footwear, as sneakers aren't going to cut it if it's been snowing or sleeting.

Grab a taxi or the subway when you can...this will help with getting from place to place and keep you dry and warm. But if you're walking from place to place...bundle up.

Hope this helps!

NY winter is way colder than the UK. But, sometimes it gets freaky and can be warm. Layers and gloves are the way to go