The Latest Dating Trend ‘Winter Coating’ Is Seriously Toxic

Another toxic dating trend? In 2022? Groundbreaking.

“Winter coating” is when people reach out to former romantic interests during cuffing season so they won’t have to spend the holidays solo. This includes anyone from old hookups to ex-partners. But, just like winter coats, the winter coater will ditch the relationship come springtime.

The reason people are gravitating toward rekindling old flames right now is due to rising inflation and lowering temperatures. In fact, according to research by LendingTree, 77% of single Americans believe that dating would be easier if they had more money (with some even going on fewer dates as a result). Coupled with the nostalgia and coziness of the holidays, winter coating can feel like a solution to save money and spend time with someone else.

While it may seem easier to pick up where you left off with an ex so you don’t have to go through the trouble of finding someone new and doing the work of building a relationship from the ground up, this isn’t exactly true. Because what if where you left things was broken at best and toxic at worst? History repeats itself, especially relationally, so winter coating is probably not the healthiest option.

Winter coaters are not doing themselves or the people they winter coat any favors by pursuing inauthentic relationships destined to expire. Unless both parties are absolutely okay with a casual arrangement, and this has been explicitly stated, it might be best to stay single for cuffing season. After all, fear of being alone, history, and chilly weather are not good enough reasons to reach out to former relationships and re-open old wounds.