How to Choose Thermal Clothing
Winter activities can be fun, but only if you choose the right clothes for the weather. Finding and wearing the right thermal clothing will help you be more comfortable in harsh weather; and can even save you from experiencing frostbite in some situations. You can visit sporting goods stores, general merchandise stores or shop over the Internet when looking for thermal garments. Although, you will need to touch the clothes to know how they feel against your skin.
Instructions
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Put your hand inside the thermal garment and rub the fabric against the inside of your palm and wrist. If the fabric feels scratchy, stiff or coarse against your inner wrist; it will probably be uncomfortable when you are wearing it. Look, or feel, for a garment with a soft, smooth texture. If you are shopping on-line, confirm the return policy to make sure you can send it back if it is uncomfortable, before committing to buy.
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Feel the thickness of the fabric by pinching it between your fingertips. Check the weight of the garment by picking it up. This is especially important if you are layering cold-weather garments. Thick fabric can get bulky and uncomfortable when layered; while heavy garments can tire you out during periods of heavy activity.
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Check the label to determine if the garment is made from a moisture-wicking fiber; so if you get sweaty the moisture will not rest against your skin. Synthetic fibers, cotton blends and silk have moisture-wicking properties.
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Check the label, again, to see if the fabric has odor resistant properties. According to Underwear Thermal, some of the older, or traditional synthetics, such as polypropylene, can develop an unpleasant odor, while some newer fabric blends resist odors.
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Check the thermal garment's care directions by looking at the label for the third time. Make sure the thermal clothes are washable, if you do not want the expense of paying a dry cleaner each time they get soiled.
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References
- Photo Credit powder skiing image by joseph pankey from Fotolia.com