Forget excelling in winter sports or skating on ice. The true superpower of winter lies in knowing how to dress to remain warm.
“When we dress properly, it enables us to enjoy the outdoor weather,” says Dr. Cheyenne Falat, assistant medical director of the emergency department at the University of Maryland Medical Center, specializing in environmental emergency medicine.
“But apart from comfort and outdoor activities, there are significant health risks if your body fails to stay warm.”
The most serious danger is hypothermia, where the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, resulting in up to 1,500 deaths in the U.S. annually. Falat has also treated numerous patients for cold-weather injuries like frostbite, leading to pain, skin blisters, or complete freezing of body parts. In severe cases, where tissues lose blood supply, amputation may be necessary. Additionally, winter weather can trigger heart issues, asthma attacks, and spikes in blood sugar levels, among other potential risks.
Proper dressing can insulate you from the elements and establish a “microclimate”, says John Castellani, a research physiologist with the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine. The goal is to feel slightly cool but not cold, allowing you to avoid excessive sweating and discomfort when moving around. “You want to feel like you would in your home with the temperature at 70°F,” he explains. This helps protect against potential health threats and makes winter more tolerable.
What to Look for in Winter Gear
The two key properties in cold-weather gear are thermal insulation and wind resistance, according to Khubab Shaker, chairman of the materials department at the National Textile University. “Clothing with high thermal insulation keeps you warm by trapping heat, while wind resistance helps block the chilling effect of wind.”
While experts use formulas to calculate thermal insulation, average consumers can check labels and product details to gauge warmth. Look for thick fleece linings in shirts, multiple layers, and down fill power from 500 to 900 in jackets. These are indications of good insulation.
It's crucial that clothing is moisture-wicking and breathable to draw sweat away from the skin and allow it to evaporate. Wool is a favored option due to its excellent insulation, odor resistance, and temperature regulation qualities. However, it may be pricier and sometimes itchy. Plant fibers like cotton, linen, and silk are not ideal for cold weather as they lose insulation when wet. Denim, though durable, is heavy, slow to dry, and offers insufficient warmth.
The Best Way to Layer
Layering is essential on cold days, with the base layer closest to the skin comprising fabrics like polyester, nylon, or wool for moisture-wicking properties. The second layer provides insulation, with wool, fleece, or cashmere recommended. These materials trap air, creating a barrier against heat loss and keeping warmth close to the body.
The top outer layer should have a windproof or waterproof shell made of synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon, along with insulation to protect against wind and precipitation. Down and synthetic insulation each have their advantages, with down being lightweight but needing careful cleaning, and synthetic options drying quickly and easier to maintain.
For outdoor activities, the ability to add or shed layers is crucial to prevent excessive sweating that can lead to heat loss. The more layers worn, the greater adaptability you have to changing conditions. Ideally, have a companion to monitor responses to temperature changes and prevent actions like “paradoxical undressing” in cases of hypothermia.
How to Accessorize Well
Prevent body heat loss by wearing a snug hat made of wool, fleece, or acrylic. Consider a balaclava for extreme cold, or a headband to cover the ears and regulate heat while staying active. Mittens are recommended over gloves to reduce heat loss, with separated fingers dispersing heat faster, making mittens a warmer option.
For warm feet, choose socks made of a wool blend with moisture-wicking properties. Always carry an extra pair to change into if needed. Opt for waterproof and wind-resistant shoes to protect your feet from cold and damp conditions, ensuring comfort and warmth.
The ULTIMATE winter layering guide
Stephen Outside
