What to wear in -10 to -1°C (14–30°F)
Full survival mode. At these temperatures, exposed skin can get frostbite in minutes. The wind makes everything worse. You need proper winter gear. Think less fashion statement, more a safety decision.
Wear:
- Heavy insulated coat
- Thermal underlayers
- Scarf, warm hat, and insulated gloves
- Wool socks and waterproof boots
If it's windy, cover every inch of exposed skin.
For Fahrenheit thinkers: this is the teens and twenties. Single digits are coming, dress accordingly.
What to wear in 0–5°C (32–41°F)
Winter is properly here. Water freezes at this range, roads get icy, and your breath is visible. It's cold enough where being underdressed will feel very uncomfortable fast.
Wear:
- Winter coat
- Warm jumper or fleece underneath
- Scarf, hat, and gloves
- Closed, insulated shoes
Jeans are fine if you're not standing around outside too long.
This is 32–41°F. Hovering around freezing. The gap between "I can see my breath" and "the puddles have ice on them."
What to wear in 6–10°C (43–50°F)
Jacket weather. You're not going to freeze, but you'll be uncomfortable without a proper outer layer. It's the kind of cold that seeps in slowly rather than hitting you at once.
Wear:
- A proper jacket (not just a hoodie)
- Long sleeves underneath
- Jeans or trousers
- Closed shoes
A scarf is optional but helps. Save the shorts for another 15 degrees.
For Americans: this is the mid-to-upper 40s. May wish you didn't leave the house in just a t-shirt.
What to wear in 11–15°C (52–59°F)
Hoodie weather. It's cool enough that you notice the air on your arms but warm enough that a heavy coat feels like overkill. The temperature range where layering actually matters, because mornings at 11°C feel very different from afternoons at 15°C.
Wear:
- A hoodie, light jacket, or cardigan
- T-shirt underneath
- Jeans and trainers
You could get away with a t-shirt in direct sun, but you'll want the layers when the clouds move in.
In Fahrenheit, you're in the mid-50s. Think "pleasant but not warm." Not quite shorts weather unless you're from Minnesota.
What to wear in 16–20°C (61–68°F)
Jacket? A ticky one at this temperature... may be worth it to just throw one in the bag.
Wear:
- T-shirt or long sleeve shirt
- A light jacket you can carry
- Jeans or light trousers
The key is layers you can take off, because 16°C in the shade with wind feels like 12°C, and 20°C in the sun feels like 24°C.
For Fahrenheit people: you're in the low-to-mid 60s. The "nice out but not warm" zone.
What to wear in 21–25°C (70–77°F)
T-shirt weather, confirmed. This is the universally agreed-upon "nice day" range. Warm enough for short sleeves, cool enough that you're not sweating through your shirt. This is the temperature most people picture when they imagine perfect weather.
Wear:
- T-shirt
- Shorts or light trousers
- Trainers or sandals
- Sunglasses
You may want sunscreen if you'll be outside for a while. 25°C with direct sun can sneak up on you.
In Fahrenheit, this is the low-to-mid 70s. Peak comfort.
What to wear in 26–30°C (79–86°F)
Now it's warm. You'll notice the heat, especially in direct sun or with humidity. This is "leave the jacket at home, you definitely don't need it" weather. Light fabrics are your friend.
Wear:
- Light t-shirt or tank top
- Shorts
- Breathable shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses and a hat
Choose fabrics that breathe: cotton or linen over polyester. Sunscreen is recommended. Stay hydrated.
For Fahrenheit reference: you're pushing into the low-to-mid 80s. "It's a hot one", especially with humidity.
What to wear in 31–35°C (88–95°F)
The kind of temperatures where just walking outside for a short time can feel like effort. Use shade wherever possible. If you're not used to this kind of heat, take care.
Wear:
- The lightest, loosest clothing you own
- Linen or extremely light cotton
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours). A light-coloured umbrella for sun shade can be helpful. Carry water.
In Fahrenheit, you're near 90–95°F. Air conditioning is ideal if you have it.
What to wear in 36°C+ (97°F+)
Stay in if you can. At these temperatures, heatstroke is a real risk, especially for children, elderly people, and pets. If you must go out, time it for early morning or late evening.
Wear:
- Minimal, loose, light-coloured clothing
- A head covering
Drink lots of water. Avoid direct sun between 11am and 3pm.
In Fahrenheit, you've crossed 100°F.