Extreme Cold Weather Gear for Women
Women who enjoy adventures in the extreme cold require the same protective gear as men to avoid the threats of hypothermia, frostbite and injury. Proper gear can protect women from these conditions by keeping the body warm, moving perspiration away from the skin and providing freedom of movement. Extreme cold weather gear designed to fit a woman's body offers optimal comfort and style without sacrificing protection.
Other People Are Reading
-
Foundation
-
This base layer rests against the skin and should be soft, comfortable and have wicking abilities, which means it keeps skin dry by sucking perspiration away from the body and passing it through the fabric to evaporate. Fabrics that retain sweat, such as cotton, should be avoided because wet clothing can lead to hypothermia. Synthetic fabrics, such as Lycra and polyester, are safer options; some are treated to prevent the accumulation of bacteria. Silk is also a natural fabric that has good wicking abilities. Foundation garments like shirts, leggings, long johns, socks and bodysuits increase comfort and movement.
Insulation
-
Several layers of sweaters, hoodies, pullovers, jackets or vests provide better insulation and flexibility than one thick, heavy item. Multiple layers can be added or removed depending on the temperature; insulation is enhanced because air gets trapped between and within the layers. Wool is one of the best materials for this, but wool mixes, synthetics and fleece, which dry quickly, are also protective choices. It is important that these pieces have drawstrings, zippers and collars. These key features allow for increased ventilation during exertion and closure during rest.
-
Outer Layer or Shell
-
Because the outer coat, pants or overtrousers are directly exposed to cold-weather elements, they should be windproof. Though the term "extreme cold" can apply to different temperatures depending on region, when the thermometer shows double digits below zero, waterproof shells are not necessary because rainfall and standing water are unlikely in such conditions. Waterproof shells are also not recommended in those temperatures because they do not readily wick away perspiration, which puts one at risk for trapping fluids inside clothing and developing hypothermia. Outer shells should be made from natural or synthetic fibers. Traditional parkas are a popular choice and include built-in insulation, such as synthetic or natural down. Because the head can lose up to 20 percent of the body's heat, the outer coat should always have a hood. Additional ski caps, ski masks or headbands can also be worn.
Extremities
-
Because fingers and toes lose heat easily and are the most vulnerable to frostbite and even loss of the body part, they require particular attention in extremely cold conditions. Two or three pairs of bulky mittens provide more warmth than gloves, while a couple of pairs of thick, warm socks---layered over a thin pair of foundation socks---and insulated boots will protect the feet. For the best protection and freedom of movement, it is important to choose gloves and boots that are designed for a particular activity.
Considerations
-
Heat quickly escapes from the wrists, ankles and neck if they are not properly covered. High boots that cover at least the ankles offer protection, along with mittens that have long wrist cuffs reaching about halfway up the forearm. A scarf or insulated neck gaiter prevents warm air from escaping and can bar wind-driven snow from getting inside of clothing. Sunglasses will block glare from snow and ice, which can cause snow blindness, while goggles offer eye protection from blowing snow and will help cover the top part of the face in very cold conditions.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of kenny
