by Olivia Emisar

Created on: November 12, 2009

How to dress for outdoor activities in winter

If you are new to the frigid zones in our lovely country, the best advice to survive winter in total comfort is to do whatever the locals do and in cold weather states sensible clothing worn in layers is the norm.

Winter activities are a lot of fun and will raise the body heat and increase perspiration, so wearing clothing that will whisk away moisture while retaining body heat is essential. Clothing designed for outdoor activities can be found at retailers that specialized in outdoor sports. Retailers such as Scheels, Cabela's or Sports Authority is a good starting point while searching for clothing made with Gor-Tex or Polartec, they are ideal for activities in snow, rain and windy weather with a minimum of bulk to allow for easy movement.

Protecting the skin starts before getting dressed and applying a thick lotion that is rich in lanolin is the first line of defense in a layering ritual.

The next step is to dress in layers using natural fibers that keep the heat in and whisk moisture away from the body. Layers should consist of underwear, thermal top and bottom, a cotton t-shirt, a sweatshirt or sweater and finally, a thick outer coat. Pants can be corduroy, heavy cotton or wool.

Foot wear should start with socks designed for winter weather, these socks are thicker, whisk away moisture and have a higher percentage of natural fibers that help retain heat, typically cotton and wool combination. Shopping for socks at stores that are geared towards winter outdoor activities will yield a larger selection and variety.

Winter shoes should have a thick insulating layer inside the shoe to retain heat and a waterproof outer layer to repel water. The sole should be made with thick rubber that is designed to hold a firm grip on slick or uneven ground.

Heat escapes through our heads, hands and feet. Use hats that provide protection to ears as well or invest in ear muffs. A wool and silk contents scarf will keep the neck and throat area warm while offering another protective layer to retain heat and absorb moisture away from the skin. Finish it all with lined leather gloves or mittens.

Attending sporting events require additional precautions to avoid hypothermia. Reflective Mylar blankets are easy to fold, store and carry. Mylar blankets retain 90% of the body heat and provide insulation from cold and rain, they are also a vital component of any emergency kit.

Keeping a few packets of hand and foot warmers to insert inside shoes and mittens is another helpful way to boost the body temperature while adding personal comfort at sporting events. The heat from the packets lasts over 8 hours, are easily carried in a pocket and cost less than two dollars for a pair. Most sporting good stores and drug stores carry these near the registers area.

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