A quick clothing check can be the difference between a fun outdoor adventure or a freezing cold nightmare
Here’s how to dress to stay warm .... & dry ....
Layers
The most important piece of advice is to dress in layers.
Three layers will keep you warm:
- Base— Silk, polyester or some other material with the ability to wick sweat away from your skin. Don’t use a cotton shirt as your base layer. It will absorb the moisture fine, but it won’t evaporate.
- Middle— This is the insulating layer. Sweaters, sweatshirts, fleece will all work as the middle layer. Wool and cashmere are excellent for this layer. It should be snug but not tight. Down coats also make a great middle layer in the coldest temperatures.
- Outer— This layer is about blocking the wind and rain. If it’s not windy or raining, a regular winter coat will be fine. But if you really want to stay warm, make your outer layer a wind and water proof shell. Ideally it should have vents around the armpits to allow sweat to evaporate.
Space
Probably the most common misconception about dressing warm is that the layers should be tight.
Keep some space between the layers so your body heat will warm that space to help keep you warm.
Stay dry
Moisture is the kiss of death on a cold day, whether it is from rain or perspiration.
Make sure your base layer wicks sweat away from your body and your outer layer will protect you from the elements.
Break the wind
Even if the temperature isn’t cold, the wind can make your time outside miserable. Counter the wind with a windproof outer layer.
Hats, Gloves Scarves & Socks
Stay covered and you will stay warm. Wear a hat that covers your ears, waterproof gloves and wool socks.
Stop the cold from getting in and your body heat from getting out with a scarf. Choose a fabric that feels good against your skin and is appropriate for the climate. A lightweight silk scarf can be effective, or if you are in extremely cold conditions, go for wool or cashmere.
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Check out my SCARVES collection
