Layering is the Key to Winter Warmth

 

Layering is the Key to Winter Warmth

By Bob Ryan

You don’t have to keep your hiking boots stored in the closet just because it’s cold outside. With a little advanced planning and knowledge, you can enjoy winter outside.The biggest challenge of cold weather hiking is regulating your body temperature.

Our grandparents may have stayed warm with their old-fashion Union Suits, but things are different now. Staying warm can be accomplished by wearing the right clothes and layering them properly. Layering also allows you to make adjustments based on changing weather conditions. By simply adding or removing layers, you will stay comfortable all day long.

There are a few layers to consider when hiking in the cold; the first is the inner base layer or moisture management layer. Its job is to move moisture and perspiration away from your body as you become more active. Staying dry is important to avoid hypothermia during cold conditions. Inner baselayers should be silk, wool, or a synthetic wicking fabric such as polyester. Cotton should be avoided during winter. Cotton retains your perspiration, leaving you chilled, while other materials allow your moisture to evaporate, leaving you warm and dry.

An example of an inner layer is the PolarMAX Double Base Layer. The PolarMAX fabric is 100% polyester, which is lightweight and comfortable to wear. It resists odor, mildew and bacteria. PolarMAX is made in North Carolina. Other popular baselayers are Patagonia’s Capilene and the Next-To-Skin wool baselayers by SmartWool. All are available in men’s and women’s sizes and styles.

The second layer is the insulation or middle layer. This layer traps air next to your body, helping you retain body heat. Examples of this insulation layer would be down, wool, or fleece. These fabrics do not absorb water, so they will keep you warm even if they get wet.

The outer layer also provides insulation from the cold. This layer is the most versatile layer, which you can add to or remove during the day depending on changing conditions. Fleece jackets or wool sweaters are good examples of the outer layer. Pants made from fleece, wool or other synthetic materials can also be used during cold conditions. Fleece vests provide good outer layer insulation and can be removed as activity level or temperature increases.

The next layer is your water and wind protection layer. It protects your body from the outside elements of rain, wind and snow. It should be a fabric that retains your body heat, but also allows water vapor to escape, leaving you warm and dry. You’ll see these fabrics referred to as “breathable.”

Another layer is the head and hand layer. Up to 70% of your body’s heat can be lost through cooling of your head, so protection is a must. A synthetic or wool cap will preserve body heat to help you stay warm. Proper fitting gloves or mittens will help insulate your hands. Like your cap, they should be a wool or synthetic material. Some gloves and caps are also made with wind-stopping fabric for added protection.
The feet layer is the final layer of protection. Wool socks are the best choice for this layer as they keep your feet dry while providing the most warmth. Wool has the ability to regulate temperature, moisture and odor in any weather condition. With wool’s natural breathability, your feet will stay dry and comfortable no matter what the temperature is.

With the proper layering of your clothes, you can stay dry and warm and enjoy cold-weather hiking. As with any hike you plan, during summer or winter, you should be aware of weather conditions. Weather during the winter can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Be aware of the current and forecast weather. If extreme weather is forecast, let common sense prevail and plan your hike for another day. Mast General Store is ready to help with any cold weather outdoor gear that you need when you hit the trails this winter.