How to Dress in Extreme Cold Weather

Dressing appropriately can protect you from extreme cold weather.

Extreme cold weather can be dangerous for those not wearing the correct clothing. Extreme cold conditions can cause frostbite, hypothermia, or even death. To avoid unnecessary suffering in extreme cold conditions, the U.S. Antarctic Program recommends that you wear a series of layers designed to keep wind, rain and snow away from your skin during extreme cold weather, .

Things You'll Need

• Thermal long underwear
• Socks
• Sweater
• Windproof jacket
• Outer pants
• Scarf
• Mittens
• Hat
• Balaclava
• Neck gaiter
• Boots

Instructions

1. Wear a layer of long thermal underwear as a base--longjohns and a long-sleeved top. Choose thermal underwear made from polypropylene, which is the thickest thermal material available. Alternatively, choose wool or silk thermal underwear if you prefer natural fibers. Layer at least two pairs of thick socks to keep your feet warm.

2. Add a second layer of fleece, down or woolen clothing. Thick fleecy pants and a wool sweater will add an intermediate level of warmth. Choose lightweight clothes that will not weigh you down, and avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture and does not dry out easily in cold weather, which means it could freeze in extreme weather conditions.

3. Finish with a windproof and waterproof jacket and outer pants. Avoid outerwear with a loose weave that could allow wind to get through. Choose a jacket with a hood to help protect your head. The type of outerwear you'll need depends on the type of conditions you're dealing with; dry cold weather requires different outerwear than humid cold weather. Ask the salespeople at your local outdoor store for advice on the best outerwear for your situation.

4. Add a scarf, mittens and a hat. Mittens offer more warmth than gloves because your fingers can touch each other and give off more heat. Wear a scarf over your mouth, which will help protect your lungs. Alternatively, choose a balaclava or a neck gaiter rather than a scarf; they will help keep your face warm as well as your neck and lungs.

5. Wear thick-soled boots to keep your feet warm. Pick a size that will allow for your thick socks. Look for a shoe or boot that has good traction, is waterproof and has a warm lining.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel yourself getting cold, the best way to get warm is to start moving. Walk briskly, and you'll be feeling warmer in no time.

• If you get warmer and take layers off, make sure you put them back on when you stop moving to trap the warmth and avoid getting frostbite later.

References

• F.E.M.A.: Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
• U.S. Antarctic Program: Extreme Cold Weather Clothing