What to Wear in Boston
Boston winters are severe. Boston summers are humid and warm. Spring and fall are short. The right Boston wardrobe handles the New England extremes — wool coats and waterproof boots in winter, light fabrics and AC layers in summer.
What to wear in Boston today
Today's answer depends on today's conditions, so the specific outfit comes from the live reading for Boston rather than from this page. Check what to wear right now, or read on for what stays true here whatever the date.
Three things move the answer in Boston more than the forecast number does: the feels-like temperature rather than the air temperature, how long you will be outside, and whether you run warm or cold. Humid continental conditions make that gap wider here than the daily high suggests.
Boston winter wind off the harbor is biting. The T (subway) is heated; the platforms often are not. Dress for both. Quality boots that handle salt are non-negotiable.
See also what to wear right now, do I need a jacket today and how to dress when the temperature swings.
Winter in Boston
December through March. 20-35°F highs, often colder with wind chill. Significant snow and ice. Wool overcoat or insulated parka, merino base layers, leather boots treated for salt, scarf, gloves, beanie.
Spring in Boston
April through May. 45-65°F. Can include late snow into April. Layered system, packable rain shell.
Summer in Boston
June through August. 75-90°F with humidity. Coastal Boston is slightly cooler than inland.
Fall in Boston
September through October. The classic New England fall. 50-70°F transitioning fast. Wool sweaters, leather boots, scarves. Peak foliage worth dressing for.
Local tips
Boston winter wind off the harbor is biting. The T (subway) is heated; the platforms often are not. Dress for both. Quality boots that handle salt are non-negotiable.