Moscow can experience extremely cold winters, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. If you’re planning to visit or live in the city during the colder months, having the right cold-weather gear is essential. From thermal jackets to winter boots, finding the right outdoor gear will ensure you stay comfortable while exploring the city. Here are some of the best places in Moscow to find high-quality cold-weather outdoor gear.
1. GUM Department Store
Why It’s Great:
- GUM is one of Moscow’s most iconic shopping centers, located right next to Red Square. Inside, you’ll find a variety of stores offering luxury and high-end winter gear suitable for cold climates.
- Many of the world’s leading outdoor brands, including Canada Goose, The North Face, and Patagonia, have flagship stores in GUM, making it a great place for premium cold-weather gear.
What You’ll Find:
- Winter coats and jackets from international brands.
- Thermal layers, gloves, and hats.
- High-end accessories like scarves, boots, and snow pants.
Tips:
- Expect to find premium and luxury gear here, but be prepared for higher prices. If you’re looking for top-of-the-line products, GUM is an ideal place to shop.
2. TsUM Department Store
Why It’s Great:
- TsUM is another well-known department store in the heart of Moscow, famous for its selection of luxury fashion and outdoor gear.
- You’ll find several brands offering warm outerwear, insulated boots, and other cold-weather essentials. TsUM carries both Russian and international brands, catering to those looking for stylish, yet functional, cold-weather clothing.
What You’ll Find:
- Down jackets, parkas, and winter coats.
- Snow boots, thermal gloves, and hats.
- Outdoor clothing that combines fashion with practicality, designed to keep you warm and stylish.
Tips:
- While TsUM offers great products, it tends to be on the expensive side, so if you’re looking for quality winter wear with a fashionable edge, this is a great spot.
3. Decathlon
Why It’s Great:
- Decathlon is a massive European outdoor retailer with a wide variety of affordable cold-weather gear. It’s perfect for those who want good quality gear at a budget-friendly price.
- The store features a large range of winter clothing and accessories, from thermal underwear to snow jackets, and insulated gloves.
What You’ll Find:
- Thermal base layers and fleece jackets.
- Winter boots, snow boots, and warm accessories.
- Affordable outdoor gear suitable for colder climates.
Tips:
- Decathlon is a good choice if you’re looking for affordable, practical outdoor gear that will keep you warm during Moscow’s harsh winters, without breaking the bank.
- The Moscow Decathlon store can be found in several locations, including the large store in Vernadskogo Avenue.
4. Sportmaster
Why It’s Great:
- Sportmaster is a popular Russian sporting goods chain with a large selection of outdoor equipment and winter clothing. Known for its reliable gear and affordable prices, Sportmaster is one of the best places to buy winter gear in Moscow.
- The store offers a wide variety of options suitable for all types of outdoor activities, from skiing to winter hiking.
What You’ll Find:
- Warm jackets and snow pants for all outdoor activities.
- Thermal socks, gloves, hats, and scarves.
- Snow boots and insulated footwear.
Tips:
- Sportmaster has a reputation for good quality and reasonable prices, so it’s an excellent option for everyday winter gear without compromising warmth and comfort.
- You can find Sportmaster in many malls across the city, including Mega Mall and Aviapark.
5. Uniqlo
Why It’s Great:
- Uniqlo is a global fashion brand known for its affordable yet high-quality cold-weather gear. The brand’s Heattech line is particularly popular in Moscow, as it provides lightweight thermal wear that helps you stay warm without adding bulk.
- The stores offer a range of winter clothing that can be layered together for warmth.
What You’ll Find:
- Heattech thermal underwear and insulated jackets.
- Down vests, puffer jackets, and winter coats.
- Socks, hats, and scarves that are designed to keep you cozy in freezing temperatures.
Tips:
- Uniqlo is an excellent option if you’re looking for basic, practical winter gear. The prices are affordable, and the Heattech line is especially good for layering.
6. Centralnyy Universalnyy Magazin (TSUM) – Outdoor Section
Why It’s Great:
- TSUM’s outdoor section features several high-quality Russian and international brands, offering premium outdoor gear for cold weather. If you’re looking for something a bit more refined, the TSUM outdoor section offers a curated selection of luxurious winter clothing.
What You’ll Find:
- High-end winter gear from brands like Haglöfs, Arc’teryx, and Patagonia.
- Stylish yet functional jackets, boots, and accessories.
Tips:
- TSUM is located in Moscow’s city center, making it an excellent place to stop by for both shopping and sightseeing.
- The luxury and premium items found here are ideal for those who want to invest in durable and high-performance outdoor gear.
7. Russian Brands: Bask, Sivera, and Khuan
Why It’s Great:
- Moscow is also home to a number of Russian outdoor brands that are known for their high-quality winter gear. Brands like Bask, Sivera, and Khuan are designed specifically to handle Russia’s extreme winters and provide outdoor enthusiasts with practical gear that’s both durable and functional.
What You’ll Find:
- Winter parkas, down jackets, and insulated boots.
- Russian-made cold-weather gear designed for extreme cold.
Tips:
- These brands are great for anyone looking for specialized winter wear made in Russia. You can find these items at local sporting goods stores or outdoor gear shops.
Conclusion: Shopping for Cold-Weather Gear in Moscow
When it comes to finding the best cold-weather gear in Moscow, there’s no shortage of options, whether you’re looking for luxury winter wear or budget-friendly outdoor essentials. Here’s a recap of the best places to shop for winter clothing and outdoor gear:
- GUM Department Store for luxury brands and premium gear.
- TsUM for stylish and functional high-end winter wear.
- Decathlon for affordable, practical gear for all outdoor activities.
- Sportmaster for good quality gear at reasonable prices.
- Uniqlo for reliable heattech layers and winter basics.
- TSUM’s Outdoor Section for premium brands.
- Russian brands like Bask, Sivera, and Khuan for specialized and durable winter gear.
No matter your budget or style preference, these stores will help you gear up for the harsh Moscow winters.