| Winter
Weather Dress: Staying Warm |
 |
|
(Page 4) How to Dress You've always heard that dressing in layers is the best approach when taking on the cold elements of outdoors. This is based on the premise that dressing in light layers of lighter clothing is far more practical then dressing in one single heavy layer. It's also much more practical should you need to remove some of those layers later on. Layering usually takes place with three distinctive groups of clothing. The first is the innermost layer that makes contact with your skin. Preferably, this layer should consist of a material that "wicks" away moisture such as perspiration. While it not only serves to remove moisture it also serves to trap your body's heat. Cotton, though warm, should not be used as the layer of clothing closest to the skin. Instead, fabrics such as synthetics, polypropylenes and other nonabsorbent materials are the preferred choices. The middle layer of clothing serves to absorb moisture that is "wicked" away from the body as a result of the innermost garments. This layer also serves to provide your body with a higher degree of warmth and comfort. Wool, down and materials made out of fleece are usually very good materials for this middle layer of clothing. The primary role of this second covering is to create the "layered" effect trapping body heat while keeping moisture away from your body. The outer layer of clothing is probably one of the more critical layers when it comes to overall performance in cold temperatures. This layer is critical due to the fact that its primary purpose is to protect you from both wind and water. These two weather related elements are by far the biggest causes of heat loss. As a general rule of thumb these materials should provide you with protection and should be made of a "breathable" fabric. Other Garments for Consideration In as much as maintaining the proper clothing layers will allow you to stay warm don't forget those other essential items such as gloves, footwear, hats and scarves. Though I never liked to wear mittens versus gloves they appear to be a more effective item in maintaining body temperatures. This well may be a result of the space created between the material and our skin. There are numerous types of gloves to choose from on the market today. Be sure to select ones that provide you with the greatest degree of flexibility and warmth. Footwear is one of those items that we probably don't give as much attention to and wished we had once outside. Remember to wear footwear for related conditions such as sloshing around in snow or in wet terrain. Boots and other footwear are often rated for conditions related to both temperature and moisture. Make sure you make the proper selection before putting them on and going out. Headwear is another one of those essential items to maintain our personal comfort and body heat. As mentioned previously we lose a lot of our body heat through our head so it is very important to reduce radiant heat loss by wearing a hat. Scarves can also provide added protection in preventing heat loss through the upper part of our body and neck area. If you prefer to wear a scarf, be extra cautious as to the risks associated with wearing them. Persons have been choked and even strangled as a result of these garments. Last but not least if you must drive in cold weather conditions be sure that the vehicle you are driving is in good working condition. Keep plenty of fuel in the tank and make sure that major systems such as heaters, batteries and lights are properly functioning. I would also recommend letting other persons know if you are taking any special trips with tentative directions on how you plan to travel. Also, keep a blanket and other clothes in your car should you run into problems and become stranded. Remember, if you must go outside on these chilling day's be sure to dress appropriately! |