We tell you what to take with you, what is the “three-layer principle” and what to consider when going to the mountains, to the sea, or to the north in winter. How to choose clothes for winter travel?
1. Check the weather forecast in advance
And focus on the temperature when choosing a wardrobe.
Pay attention to the so-called real feel. The same temperature can be felt differently depending on the humidity of the air.
2. Follow the three-layer principle
It is also the “cabbage principle” — a universal life hack that will help keep you warm even at extreme temperatures.
Remember that clothes do not warm, but keep your own warmth. Therefore, the air under its layers must circulate so as to maintain the natural heat exchange of the body.
So, what is the essence of the three layers?
The first layer is thermoregulation. As a basic set, take thermal underwear. Choose clothes set according to the type of rest — for a long walk in the city or by the sea, wear warming woolen underwear, and if you are waiting for an active holiday (for example, winter travel or walking in the mountains), thermal underwear made of synthetic fabrics with the effect of moisture removal will suit. A nice bonus — such underwear does not stretch.
Cotton sets are suitable for leisurely walks — if the clothes get wet, they will lose their warming function. It is also dangerous — a damp cloth will immediately begin to cool the body.
There are kits with a combined effect — they remove moisture and warm at the same time. The lower layer is made of synthetic, and the upper one is made of natural fabric. Take one if you are expected to spend the night in a tent or walk at low temperatures (below -25° C).
Thermal underwear is the only layer that should fit snugly on the figure.
And one more important factor — do not wear anything but underwear under thermal underwear.
Do not forget: if thermal underwear is synthetic, then underwear should be made of synthetic — cotton will get wet and will not let you warm up.
The second layer is insulation. Put a jumper or hoodie over your thermal underwear. Fleece clothing is best suited, which warms well and removes excess moisture. If you go to severe weather conditions, choose clothes with a dense (300 g/m2) or windproof fleece for winter travel.
You can wear a down vest over it — they are very light and at the same time perfectly warm.
The third layer is protection from moisture and wind. The ideal option is membrane women’s winter jackets, which perfectly protect from wind and rain.
A down jacket is also suitable — warm, light, and does not restrict movement. Just keep in mind that fluff is afraid of humidity, and it is difficult to dry it if it gets wet.
Synthetic jackets, on the contrary, are very resistant to moisture and more durable but weigh more.
Be careful with the choice — it is better to take a larger size so that there is enough space for the two lower layers.
3. Pick up warm shoes
It should be on a thick and stable sole and not leak moisture. Insulation will not be superfluous — for example, natural or artificial fur. It is important that the insole is thick — the higher you are above the ground, the warmer it is.
What else to consider when choosing winter shoes:
Do not take new shoes on the trip — there is a chance to rub calluses in the first days; shoes should be free: if the blood circulation in the feet is disrupted, the feet begin to freeze; let the sole be flexible and grooved, preferably with an anti-slip coating;
It is important that the top layer does not leak and does not absorb moisture.
4. Do not skimp on a hat, gloves, and socks
Choose a hat made of thick fabric that covers the ears. It’s good if there are several layers in it. To protect your nose and lips from the cold, you can buy balaclava made of wool or mixed synthetic materials. Do not take cotton products — remember that it quickly absorbs moisture and ceases to warm.
Gloves and mittens must necessarily cover the wrists. For long walks, choose mittens — if the fingers are together, it is easier for them to keep warm.
For long walks in the cold, tracking thermal socks are useful: they “breathe”, remove moisture and stimulate blood circulation.
5. Choose warm winter trousers
What to pay attention to:
- Trousers should be high—waisted – then the lower back will be closed;
- It is better to choose trousers made of membrane fabric with water—repellent impregnation – neither rain nor snow is terrible in such;
- Some models have insulation — down, fleece, or made of other synthetic fabrics. These trousers will be comfortable in extreme cold and winds;
- Trousers should be loose — move around, and do a couple of squats to check the fabric for elasticity;
- Take a closer look at cargo trousers — lots of pockets, water—repellent fabric, lightweight – they are perfect for winter walks.
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