At 7:15 a.m., long before most of us leave the house, there’s someone already standing at the edge of a school parking lot—smiling, waving, and guiding kids across icy streets. School crossing guards work in some of the coldest conditions, standing still for long stretches. And yet, somehow, they stay warm for hours.
So what’s their secret?
It turns out, crossing guards have learned exactly what it takes to stay warm in the cold without sacrificing comfort or movement. And lucky for you, their secret isn't something reserved for trained professionals—it’s gear you can use too.
Let’s walk through what they wear, and how you can build the same kind of defense against the cold this winter.
Layered Warmth Starts at the Base
The first secret to staying warm for hours outside? A strong base layer.
Crossing guards know that staying warm isn’t just about bundling up—it's about trapping heat close to the body. That’s why many of them rely on Heat Holders® ORIGINAL Base Layers. Designed with our advanced HeatWeaver® technology, these thermal tops and bottoms help hold body heat without adding bulk, keeping the chill out and the comfort in.
If you're outside for long periods—waiting at the bus stop, working outdoors, or cheering on the sidelines—start your day with a base layer that works as hard as you do. Shop the Base Layer collection.
Build a Mid Layer That Works Smarter
Over that base layer, warmth continues to build. A smart mid layer traps more heat while still letting your body breathe.
The Heat Holders® Zip Jacket, made with double brushed fleece, offers the ideal balance. It’s make in a thin profile that helps retain warmth while allowing you to move easily—something crossing guards need as they wave signs, lift their arms, and stay alert.
The Right Outerwear Seals in the Heat
You might think a big coat is all you need. But if it isn’t lined properly, cold air will creep in fast.
That’s why crossing guards favor insulated coats like the Heat Holders® Puffer Jacket, specially designed with a HeatWeaver® fleece lining that holds heat close to your body. It zips up high to keep wind out and pairs perfectly with other thermal layers underneath.
It’s not about being bulky—it’s about being smart. Check out the Puffer in the Perfect Jacket collection.
Don’t Forget the Extremities
Fingers, toes, head, and neck—those are the first parts of your body to feel the cold. That’s why seasoned cold-weather pros never skip the accessories.
Your Feet Will Thank You
Heat Holders® ORIGINAL Socks are the Warmest Thermal Sock. Made with long looped advanced thermal yarns that are intensely brushed, ORIGINAL™ socks are sensationally soft and hold warm air next to the skin, keeping toes warm for hours, even inside rubber boots or steel-toe shoes.
Longer styles are great for keeping your feet warmer and leaving you feeling comfortable to stay outside for the long haul!
Accessories That Work
Gloves and Hats keep your head and hands warm... where warmth escapes first. But with Heat Holders®, these aren’t ordinary winter accessories. Made with HeatWeaver® lining, the gloves and thermal hats feel incredibly soft inside and hold onto your body heat far longer than basic winter gear. Add a Heat Holders® Neck Warmer, and you’ve sealed off one of the last places cold air tries to sneak in. Browse all Heat Holders® accessories here .
Crossing guards like Heat Holders® performance gloves with their warmth, water resistance, wrist-adjust features along with palm grips to help them hang onto their signs. Fingers stay warmer for longer in Heat Holders® performance gloves and mitts!
You don't have to sacrifice the look! Our accessories come in lots of colors and styles to let you choose the one best suit you. If you're out very early in the morning or coming home after dark in the winter, Heat Holders® offers styles in high visibility colors with reflective stripes. Check out the WORXX collection.
The Real Secret? Dressing for the Cold Like It’s Your Job
Crossing guards aren't lucky with weather choices—they prepare. They layer strategically with the right materials, from base layers to accessories. And that’s exactly how you can stay warm in the winter for hours, too.
If you're tired of feeling chilled after a few minutes outside, follow their lead and choose Heat Holders®! With Heat Holders®, you can stay outside longer, feel comfortable doing it, and keep the cold from cutting your plans short.
Ready to stay warm for hours in the cold?
Explore the full collection of Heat Holders® ORIGINAL Base Layers, thermal hats, gloves, thermal outerwear, and of course The Warmest Thermal Sock!
