About Cold-Weather Clothing

When fall draws to a close and the temperature begins to slip steadily downward, it does not mean that people will stay indoors. Dressing for cold weather does not mean throwing on a coat and gloves. As the temperatures get colder, the right cold weather clothing can mean the difference between life and death. It involves layering the right type of clothes made from the right type of material, while allowing for the wearer's mobility.

History

The tragic Antarctic expedition led by Robert Scott in 1911-1912 is a sad example of inadequate cold weather clothing. For the most part, the men of Captain Scott's team had sufficient insulation; however, there were two major drawbacks. First, the garments' fabric did not allow for perspiration to be wicked away, causing the clothing to become wet. Wet clothes do not provide adequate insulation. The team did not have the ability to dry these wet garments, nor did they have a change of clothing, forcing the men to wear wet garments. Second, the men did not have the ability to easily adjust the insulating layers without exposing their skin to the elements. All the men on Scott's expedition froze or starved to death.

Significance

Cold weather clothing needs to be windproof, but not necessarily waterproof; in coldest temperatures, there is not any precipitation. The clothing needs to provide insulation from either layers and padding, like down or fiber-filled. Cold weather clothing--especially foundation garments--needs to be able to wick away perspiration. All of these garments should allow the wearer free movement and the ability to adjust the layers.

Types

Dressing for cold weather should begin with good foundational garments, made from synthetic materials (natural fibers trap perspiration) that feel comfortable next to the skin while wicking away perspiration. At least two layers of insulating clothes should be worn next, made of either natural or synthetic fibers and having easy-to-open zippers or draw-string cords. The outer garment needs to be windproof, either synthetic, natural fibers or even down-filled. Covering the head, hands and feet is extremely important. Choose shoes that have thick, plastic soles with insulation. Mittens are better than gloves for providing warmth, but can detract from the ability to use your hands. Insulated head coverings like ski masks or gaiters and scarves keep the body heat from escaping. Companies like Wickers and Aerostitch Riderwearhouse provides clothing that meets cold weather needs.

Considerations

Take activity into account when dressing for cold weather. Certain sports, like hiking or cross-country skiing, can create intense body heat. Other activities, like snowball fights or riding a ski-lift, has less consistent heat output. Before going outside, try on all the clothes and move as you will when outside to make sure that all your skin will be protected.

Warning

When going out in extreme temperatures, there should not be any cold spots or exposed skin. All areas, including hands and feet, should have more than one layer. Cold weather clothing should not have buttons or snaps that allow for gaps for air to escape. Don't forget eye protection, sunscreen and lip protection.

Resources

• Wickers
• Aerostich Riderwearhouse