Dress for success
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One of the keys to dressing for the cold is layering. Dressing in layers of light-weight, comfortable fabric helps trap air warmed by the body while conducting moisture from perspiration away from the skin. Layering also allows you to shed extra layers if you get too warm. Because excess perspiration will increase heat loss, remove extra layers of clothing whenever you feel too warm. The following are recommendations for the layers starting with those closest to the body to those on the outside. Layer 1 – Wicking: The first layer of clothing warn against the skin should keep you warm and dry. These items would include thermal underwear. The best materials are those that quickly and effectively “wick” or draw moisture away from the skin. This prevents sweat from evaporating on the skin and causing a drop in your core body temperature. Synthetic fibers such as polypropylene and polyester dry quickly and pull perspiration vapor away from the skin toward the insulation layer, where it can evaporate. Cotton and silk tend to hold moisture and should be avoided. Layer 2 - Insulation: Warmth is again a crucial factor. This material should retain its thermal properties even while wet. You may need to add insulating layers if your activity level decreases. Insulators such as wool, goose down, polyester, and fleece will trap warm air but still provide ventilation. This layer should be comfortable, light-weight, durable and windproof. Layer 3 - The Shell: The outer layer should be appropriate for the activity. The material should be tightly woven, breathable nylon fabric which allows perspiration to vent, but repels water and wind. This layer should reduce heat loss and assist the rest of the layers in providing dryness and comfort. A number of products, including Goretex, are viable alternatives for this layer. References:
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Layering is key to keeping warm. |
 
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