It May Take Planning for Successful Dress in the Cold
By Tom Herrin
If you are interested in continuing your outdoor physical activity in the cold, it won't happen by chance. Understanding just what you need to have is a big part of a successful workout. I have had some real challenges trying to decide exactly how to wear clothing that can keep me warm enough while keeping me cool at the same time.
At one time, I would ride my bicycle anytime the temperature was above 30 degrees. I would have to assess what the temp was like, then guess how much I would warm how fast. It was a lot of trial-and-error. There were times in which it was a total failure, and I would have to turn around and go back. That was never a good solution. It is now suggested that the right kinds of layers may be the best solution.
The Base Layer Is a Key
It is now recommended that the first layer of clothing be pretty tight-fitting. It also needs to be able to wick away moisture. The last thing you need is to be wet when it is cold outside. There are plenty of materials to choose from today, but cotton is one that can turn your efforts into a disaster. Materials that work well will allow the moisture to move away from you and air to help circulate. The lighter weight materials will likely be your best bet.
The Middle Layer Controls Traffic
The master of movement for air and moisture may be the middle layer. It is a sort of intermediary in allowing this flow to work. In many cases, this may need to be insulating. This means that it probably needs to be thick and light at the same time. This can allow for air to move through it and not be trapped. It can additionally let the moisture out, avoiding it from being trapped too near the body.
The Outer Layer Needs to Offer Protection
Whatever you wear on the outermost part should provide some protection from the wind and rain. A lot of windbreakers do some of that now. At the same time, they need to breathe a little. This will allow the moisture to continue on its way out while the air can circulate. Another great thing about layering is that, if we see it is too warm, we can remove some of it without a big problem. It will take some adjusting, but you will be able to make it work for you.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Worth, Tex.