Layer Up! A Quick Guide to the Best Cold Weather Gear
As winter approaches, outdoor sports enthusiasts need to learn how to dress well before the cold weather strikes in earnest. Regardless of how much cold weather gear you have already, the best way to fight extreme cold is to implement a layering system. It’s the only way to ensure that you can enjoy hours of winter activities like skiing, sledding, or even just walking in the cold without getting either too chilled, or too hot and sweaty in heavy garments.
Today, we’re going to explore the best way to create this layering system, and what items are must-haves for the upcoming winter season. With a few small additions to your wardrobe, you can create a great basic toolkit for every winter weather situation.
Base Layer
To start, you’re going to want a great base layer. In extreme cold, we can still exert plenty of body heat, which leads to sweat. A good base layer wicks the sweat away from your body, so it doesn’t cool on your skin and make you cold and uncomfortable. The purpose of a base layer is to regulate with your core body temperature, and to help pull moisture away from your skin. The best fabrics for a base layer are quick-drying, and very breathable.
Ideally, you should feel some compression, but the garment shouldn’t be too tight. You don’t want to have excess fabric bunching and getting in your way. If you’re going to be outside for a long period of time, you’ll want to wear a base layer shirt as well as leggings. For head to heel comfort, warmth and flexibility choose one of the new full bodysuits…..if you can find one they are fabulous to wear as a onesie!
Middle Layer
Over top of the base layer, the middle layer is designed to keep you warm by retaining body heat. The best middle layers offer plenty of soft, compressible warmth that insulates your body heat but doesn’t add too much weight. These garments should feel light, but need to be warm enough to keep you comfortable outdoors in cold weather.
Wool and wool blends have traditionally been the typical choice for an insulating middle layer, but advances in textile engineering have led to innovations like our Power Core fabric, which is soft and insulating on the inside, but smooth and sleek on the outside.
Outer Layer
Finally, the outer layer of a winter outfit serves to repel snow, wind and rain. This typically takes the form of a basic, slick shell that can be added on top of the two other layers. The best shells are extremely light, and treated with water repellent which makes moisture roll right off the fabric.
The outer layer may seem like an afterthought, but it’s extremely important. If water penetrates the middle and base layer, it can cool down the body very quickly.
Where to Find the Best Cold Weather Gear
Shopping for winter gear can be a struggle, especially if you don’t have much experience with layering. It might seem like overkill to wear three layers at a time all winter long, but trust us- it’s worth it. Freedom from cold, rain, and wind is only possible with a good layering system.
If you’ve been struggling to find quality cold-weather gear, come browse the new Winter Woolies collection. Our brand-new designs and quality materials will keep you warm and stylish all winter long. Regardless of whether you’re on the slopes or just commuting in style, our gear will keep you toasty warm.