How to Buy Leg Wear for Cool-Weather Exercise

When exercising in cool weather, you want leg wear that is designed for stop-and-go activities. Look for material that will let you perspire comfortably but keep you warm as you cool down.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Desert Hiking Pants
• Outdoor Pants
• Thermal Underwear
• Waterproof Pants
• Wicking Underwear
• Ski Pants

1. Consider the following when determining the "weight" that you'll need: Is this an insulating layer or a protective outer layer? How cold will the conditions be where you're most likely to need leg wear? Are you usually warmer or colder when compared to other people? Manufacturers give all kinds of recommendations for the various uses of their clothing, but no two people are the same.
2. Look for blends of synthetic materials such as Lycra, polyester and spandex. These materials hold their shapes longer and keep you warmer than do nylon and natural fibers such as silk.
3. Get pants with "moisture-wicking capability," which draws moisture away from your skin, keeping you warm and comfortable.
4. Consider getting leg wear designed specifically as thermal underwear. It will wick better and keep you warmer than will Lycra or nylon workout clothing.
5. Consider buying leg wear, such as running or cycling pants, that is designed specifically for the activity in which you'll be engaged.
6. Get pants that are tight-fitting if you'll be wearing the pants alone or as an insulating layer. Tight-fitting pants will be warmer and will dry quicker than loose-fitting leg wear.
7. Look for pants with a long back designed to be comfortable when you move and bend. These are especially good for cycling and climbing.
8. Find materials that are easy to care for, meaning those that are machine-washable and, preferably, machine-dryable.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider purchasing two pairs of pants: one as a tight-fitting insulating layer to keep you warm and wick away moisture from the skin and another as a loose-fitting outer layer to protect against wind and rain.
• Consider pants with the following features: a small inside pocket for money or keys, material that is waterproof and windproof, ankle zippers to pull the pants on and off over boots or shoes, and pleated knees for a greater range and ease of motion.