Clothing

Clothing

Clothing

The winter months demand more of you and your clothing than the summer months. By learning some basics about your body and clothing, it will be easier for you to enjoy nature during the winter. Be aware of your body's signals and follow the multi-layer principle to keep your body warm and dry. Many people are uncertain which materials are best suited for each layer. After spending many years outside during the winter, we will share with you what we believe works best.

Multi-layer principle

During the winter months, you should ideally be wearing four layers, which you can put on or take off depending on different conditions. When you are standing still you need insulation and when you are in motion you need to release excess heat. The four layers are a base layer, middle layer, outer layer and reinforcement layer. Read more by clicking on each layer's name below.

Base layer – Wicks away moisture from the skin to keep it dry and warm. We recommend wool underclothing.

Middle layer – Binds moisture from the body and insulates the air. We recommend a sweater or jacket in polyester or wool fleece.

Outer layer – Protects against wind, rain and wear. We recommend durable, functional G-1000 for cold winter weather conditions. In heavy rain, we recommend garments with a waterproof membrane, such as Hydratic.

Reinforcement layer – When you stand still in extremely low temperatures, you need a reinforcement garment. We recommend a good down jacket or a warm jacket with synthetic padding.

Winter clothing

In order to feel comfortable, your body needs to reach something called a 'heat balance'. Heat balance is when your body is producing and releasing equal amounts of heat and your internal temperature is +37 degrees Celsius. Your body strives to always maintain this temperature, for for example via blood circulation, sweating or shivering. Read more by following the "Safety" link.

When the external temperature is around +27 degrees Celsius, your body can successfully maintain its heat balance without needing any protection or clothing. However, when the temperature falls below +27, you will need appropriate clothing that can hold in your body heat or release it as needed. The principles are relatively simple. You are most likely already familiar with the advantages of dressing in layers; this becomes particularly important during the winter.