Layering for (Snow) Dummies
- Category: Health & Wellness
- Posted On:
- Written By: Baton Rouge General
This is not a drill, our very own winter wonderland is unfolding across the area. Staying dry is your best bet to staying warm. You may have to dig around improvise to cover your bases with layers, but here is a good plan:
Base layer helps wicks sweat off your skin. While staying active out in this weather helps you generate body heat, don’t overexert yourself because you’ll lose heat if you sweat too much.
Ideas: There’s a wide range of fabrics that would work as options, including synthetics like polyester and nylon, or natural fibers like merino wool (wool is a great option for socks). It mostly comes down to what you have on hand or personal preference for the feel of the fabric.
Middle layer (insulating layer) retains body heat to protect you from the cold.
Ideas: Good options are polyester fleece, wool and wool-blend tops, and down or synthetic insulated jackets, e.g. North Face. As a general rule, the thicker the item the warmer. Fleece-lined leggings are a good option too, for this layer or as a base layer.
Outer layer (shell layer) helps to shield you from wind and freezing rain.
Ideas: Waterproof jacket or coat is the best option, but water-resistant will be ok if that’s all you’ve got.
Accessories help keep extremities like your nose and fingers warm.
Ideas: Warm hat to cover not only your head but ears; waterproof gloves, and a scarf over your nose and mouth. Tip: when you come inside use hand warmers if you have them for a quick warm-up your hands!