From Freezing to Fantastic: The HSE Student's Guide to Mastering Moscow Winter
The warning came from everyone: "Just wait for the winter." As a new student at HSE, I pictured months of gloomy darkness, a battle against the elements just to get to class. I was braced for survival mode. But I was wrong. I discovered that Moscow doesn't just have winter; it celebrates it. With the right know-how, you can move beyond merely enduring the cold to truly loving it. Here’s how to transform your perspective and become a master of the Moscow winter.
The Survival Foundation – Gear is Everything
Your first lesson is that Russian winter demands respect, and respect comes in the form of practical gear. This isn’t about fashion—it’s about physics.
1. Master the Art of Layering (The Onion Method):
Locals don't just wear a coat; they engineer a personal climate system. Start with a moisture-wicking thermal base layer. Add an insulating middle layer like a fleece or thick wool sweater. Your final defense is a long, high-quality down-filled jacket (pukhovichka) that covers your hips. This triple-layer system traps warm air and is your key to comfort.
2. Protect Your Extremities:
Your body sacrifices your hands and feet first to keep your core warm. A warm, fur-lined shapka (hat) is mandatory. Mittens are significantly warmer than gloves. For footwear, valenki (felt boots) are a legendary solution for dry, toasty feet. For everyday slush and ice, invest in waterproof boots with a deep, reliable tread.
3. Don't Forget Your Skin:
The combination of dry indoor heating and bitter outdoor wind is harsh. A heavy moisturizer and a constant supply of lip balm are as crucial as your metro card. Consider a humidifier for your dorm room to help you sleep better and wake up feeling fresh.
The Thriving Mindset – Finding the Magic
Once you’ve solved the equation of staying warm, a whole new world of winter delights opens up.
1. Embrace the Outdoor Transformation:
Moscow’s parks become a scene from a fairy tale. Gorky Park morphs into a vast network of ice-skating paths. The rink at VDNKh, set against the backdrop of majestic Soviet architecture, is a monumental experience. A weekend walk through the snow-laden forests of Losiny Ostrov or the historic grounds of Kolomenskoye offers a profound sense of peace and breathtaking beauty. The city isn't shutting down; it's putting on a different, more spectacular show.
2. Discover Cozy Urban Hideouts:
Moscow excels at the art of creating warmth. This is the season to become a cafe connoisseur. Find a spot with large windows, order a pot of chai s limonom i medom (tea with lemon and honey), and watch the world go by. This is perfect for solo study sessions or deep conversations with friends. The contrast between the chilly street and your warm, lit corner is a core part of the winter charm. My personal discovery was a tiny book cafe near the Chistye Prudy metro, where the smell of old books and coffee made every visit feel like a retreat.
A Pro-Tip from a Local: My Russian roommate taught me the sacred ritual of the "post-walk tea." There is an unparalleled, soul-warming satisfaction in returning from the biting cold, shedding your layers, and wrapping your hands around a steaming mug. It’s a small, intentional moment that perfectly captures the cozy contrast of the season.
3. Indulge in Seasonal Comforts:
Your body will naturally crave hearty, warm food. Thankfully, Russian cuisine is designed for this. Dive into bowls of steaming borscht, generous servings of pelmeni with sour cream, and the tangy, meaty richness of solyanka soup. From the affordable HSE canteen to the city's many stolovayas, comfort is always nearby. And don't miss the festive New Year's markets, where the scent of glintwein (mulled wine) and roasted nuts fills the air.
4. Combat the Darkness with Light and Connection:
The short days are the season's biggest mental challenge. My strategy is proactive: maximize exposure to daylight by walking during lunch breaks. In the evening, make your room bright and inviting. Most importantly, stay social. Organize potlucks, film marathons, or explore Moscow's world-class museums with classmates. The HSE student clubs host a plethora of events during these months—from academic conferences to informal parties. Go to them. Connection is the most powerful weapon against the winter blues.
The Final Exam: It's a Mindset
The ultimate lesson I learned wasn't about a specific piece of gear; it was a shift in attitude. I stopped seeing winter as an adversary and started seeing it as a playground. I had impromptu snowball fights after lectures, learned to ice skate (with more enthusiasm than grace), and learned to appreciate the stark, serene beauty of a snow-covered city at dusk.
The Moscow winter is a rigorous but rewarding course. It teaches resilience, preparation, and the profound joy of finding warmth—in a cup of tea, a bowl of soup, and the company of friends. So, layer up, step out, and sign up for the most beautiful class HSE has to offer—one that doesn't happen in a lecture hall, but in the sparkling, snowy streets of this incredible city.
P.S. This article is based on the author's personal experience as an HSE student. Always check official websites for opening hours and event details. Stay warm!
Tips by
