Oct. 26, 2011 - Issue #836: Winter Guide 2011
Stayin’ alive
Don't get hypothermia out there
HOW TO LAYER:
Base layer: make sure your base layer is "wicking" which means it pulls the moisture away from your skin and into the rest of your clothing. That keeps the moisture from staying next to you and making you cold.
Interior layers: Lightweight, insulating fabrics are best, and make sure that you can move in them. It's better to have two thin ones than one thick one.
Outer layer: this one should be waterproof and windproof. Even if it was sunny and still when you left, it could be a blizzard by the time you return so you need to be prepared.
Backpack: Speaking of being prepared, bring extra layers with you inside a backpack. Not only will they come in handy if the weather gets colder, you can remove layers and toss them into the backpack if the weather gets warmer.
Sunscreen: The sun is out in the winter too—it's just out for a much shorter amount of time. If you're going to be outside, you’re going to want to slather on some sunscreen.
3 points: Make sure your head, your neck and your wrists are adequately covered. Those three places are where the most heat is lost for winter sports enthusiasts.
If you're going to be doing some physical activity outside during the winter you should, as a rule, be a little bit cold just before you begin and allow the activity to warm you up. Otherwise, you're likely overdressed which can be just as dangerous as being underdressed.
Bryan Birtles
// bryan@vueweekly.com
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