Baby It’s Finally Cold Outside.  Now What?

Campfire Guy here. North Texas weather has been very erratic over the past week. On January 2nd it was warm and sunny.  By January 6th we had light snow and temperatures hovering in the 20’s.  Incidentally I camped out that night.  As soon as I thaw out, I’ll be posting an article on that experience.  To say that the seasons have been behaving like the guests on an episode of Jerry Springer would be an understatement.

I Learned Layering The Hard Way

Crazy weather, which has been the theme of the past week, can be a challenge to dress for when spending time outdoors.  The key to staying comfortable when the weather can’t seem to make up its mind is to dress in layers.  Layer up properly and you’ll be comfortable. Do it improperly and you’ll end up sweaty, cold and uncomfortable like the guy with the amazing hat below.

 

Dressing In Layers Will Keep You Warm

When we talk about layers, I mean utilizing several strategic articles of clothing that create a system for warmth, not a place were friendly dragons live.  For starters, avoid cotton.  It will trap moisture which works against your body as it tries to warm up.

Base Layer

The base layer is closest to your skin and consists of a long sleeve shirt and long pants.  Your base layer is intended to not only be your first defense against the cold, but to also wick moisture away from your body.  It could also be used to create awkward photos in your backyard.

Synthetic base layers are relatively cheap but tend to start to smell over time.  My preference is Merino wool. You’ll pay more for it, but there is almost zero smell, even after days of continuous use.

Mid Layer

The next step is to add a down or fleece jacket. I switch between the two, depending on the temperature and my activity.  I’ve found down to be warmer than fleece. The mid layer helps trap the warmth our body naturally generates.  Dressed appropriately you’ll stay warm and have a good range of motion for climbing the tallest peaks.

 

Outer Layer

The outer layer is like a hard candy shell, only without the candy or the edible part.  This last part of your system should consist of a wind and water resistant jacket and some long, noncotton, pants.  Pants with zip off legs give you a wide range of options in the outdoors.  That and they’ll make you look super cool (said no one ever).  The science behind water resistant, breathable material is mind numbing.  For more info on that, finish reading my article, then check out this article published by REI.  eVent, Goretex, and bears, Oh My!

To simplify the Outer Layer and make sure it works, all you need to remember is:

• Make sure the armpits have vents, as trapping moisture works against you.
• Water test the jacket at home. If the seams leak, apply a tent seam sealer on the inside and that should take care of it.

How Campfire Guy Dresses Warm and Looks Cool (…..Or Not)

• Base Layer – Icebreaker Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe Top  and Leggings
• Mid Layer – REI Co-Op Down jacket
• Outer Layer – ALPS Mountaineering Nimbus Rain Jacket
• Socks – Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Socks
• Boots – Lowa Camino Trekking Boots
• Gloves – Outray Thinsulate Fleece Gloves
• Neck Cover – Scarf or a Merino Wool Buff Headwear
• Head Cover – Smartwool Knit Cap

Dressing properly can also help you avoid a cold night in your tent.  Check out this article from last year to see more about that and sleeping bag selection.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to drop them in the Comments section below.  Stay safe and warm out there this winter!

This post contains affiliate links which help offset operating costs.  They don’t add cost to your purchase, but they do add smiles to my face.  All equipment mentioned above or shown in those sweet, sweet photos was purchased by the author with his own funds.