How to keep yourself warm during winter
Learn how to properly layer clothes to keep yourself warm this winter.
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The first and most important step in keeping yourself warm and cozy in the cold is learning how to properly layer for winter weather. Strategically layering your clothes can make the difference between enjoying the outdoor activities winter has to offer and shivering, or worse still, staying stuck inside nursing cabin fever.
Sure, you can wear all the down and fleece-lined garments you like, but did you know there’s actually a science behind properly layering? It hinges on harnessing the power of your own body heat. From selecting the ideal base layers to choosing the right socks to making best use of a scarf, we’ve got the secrets you need to keep yourself warm while embracing the wonders of winter.
Watch the video above to learn all of the winter layering tips you’ll need to stay warm in cold weather.
Winter Layering Tips for Staying Warm in Cold Weather
Essential Layering:
- Cover as much skin as possible.
- Start with tight-fitting base layers made of synthetic materials like polyester to provide good insulation, trap body heat, and wick moisture away. Steer clear of cotton fabrics as they retain moisture.
- Add a thick sweatshirt, a wool sweater, or a vest on top of your base layer to further trap body heat.
- Always keep your head covered with a warm hat to minimize heat loss. If your head or ears are particularly prone to chill, consider a fleece-lined option for extra warmth.
Lower Body Warmth:
- When wearing leggings as a base layer, opt for fleece-lined options for extra warmth.
- Wear thick wool socks to keep feet dry and warm, preventing heat loss through moisture. Feet are prone to accumulating moisture, and wool retains insulating properties even when wet.
- Opt for shearling-lined shoes for added warmth.
Versatile Large Scarf:
- A large scarf, often referred to as a “blanket scarf,” is a powerful and versatile tool in staying warm in the cold.
- Wear it over your shoulders underneath a coat for an extra layer of warmth.
- Use it over your legs as a blanket to keep them warm.
- Place it over your nose and mouth to turn your breath into a heater for added warmth.
Staying Dry is Key:
- Staying dry is the key to keeping warm, so it’s essential to choose clothing made from moisture-wicking or waterproof materials. These fabrics help transport moisture away from the body, keeping you dry and maintaining the insulating properties of your clothing. Additionally, layering with breathable materials allows moisture to escape when needed.
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More tips to keep yourself warm during winter
- Once you’re properly layered, warm up with a hot drink in an insulated mug. The hot liquid will warm your body from the inside out and the insulated mug will help keep that drink warm for hours while outside.
- It may not feel intuitive to drink tons of water when it’s really cold outside, but staying well hydrated will help your body retain heat by improving circulation.
- Even when inside, utilize rechargeable hand warmers by placing them in the pockets of your clothes for quick bursts of heat without adjusting the thermostat.
- If you’re heading out in the cold but don’t want to look bundled up like a marshmallow, consider wearing tights under your jeans or pants for added warmth without the bulk.
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