As bitter, deadly cold sweeps across the United States, millions of Americans are being told to dress in layers if they must go out.
In places that rarely experience bone-chilling temperatures, this advice can be confusing. What does layering mean? Is it different from just wearing a coat? Is there any way to do it wrong?
People in Minnesota, a state no stranger to the cold, have wisdom to share.
WHAT IS LAYERING?
Layering means wearing more than one item of clothing to keep your body comfortable in cold weather. Each layer creates an insulating air pocket that protects you better than wearing a bulky jacket, and layering helps draw sweat and moisture away from your skin.
No matter how cold it is, once you get outside and start moving, you’re likely going to sweat, said Claire Wilson, executive director of the Loppet Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes winter fun and activities in Minneapolis.
If you’re wearing the right layers, you can feel the sweat draining away from your body, he said. The idea is to add another layer if you get cold or remove a layer when you get warm or wet.
AVOID COTTON AND WET
Wilson said she likes to shop at thrift stores for layers that won’t break the bank.
“Look for things that aren’t cotton,” she said.
Wilson explained that cotton absorbs moisture, so it stays wet longer. If you walk in the snow, cotton socks can get wet inside your boots or shoes, and the cotton shirt under your jacket can also get wet from sweat. “Cotton doesn’t dry quickly, so you’ll get colder,” she said.
Instead, opt for wool socks and fabrics made of fleece, polyester or polypropylene, she said. You can also repurpose old vests and shirts, which are great for keeping your belly warm. Many of these items may already be in your closet; Layering doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
CONSIDER THE THREE MAIN LAYERS
Wilson recommends starting with a base layer, then a mid-layer, and then an outer layer.
The base layer is closest to your skin, so it’s important for the fabric to absorb moisture, she said. For this, choose polyester instead of cotton. Then, wear a middle layer (vest or shirt) to keep your belly warm. Some people choose to wear more than one mid-layer. Finally, wear a traditional winter jacket that blocks some wind but also insulates you, Wilson said.
PROTECT SPECIFIC BODY PARTS
“Three words: Protect Your Butt (STI)!” about staying warm in cold weather, the city of Minneapolis says in a blog post. In other words, wear a winter jacket that fits closer to your knees rather than your hips.
The post also recommends keeping your legs warm by wearing fleece-lined leggings or a pair of long underwear under your pants. Wool socks and winter boots will also be very helpful. Fur-lined mittens or mittens can also keep your hands warm and prevent the skin from drying out. And keep your ears comfortable with headphones or a hat.