Gear Guides - Cold Weather Kit
Cold Weather Kit
In previous articles we have explained the layering principle and how waterproof garments breathe.
A quick reminder – regardless of the brand of waterproof breathable fabric, the breathability function will be rendered useless if you wear absorbent materials (like Cotton) under the outer layer. Sweat vapour will become trapped within the fibres of the inner layers and when cooling will condense before reaching the outer layer thus exasperating the cooling process.
Outer layers that are windproof but not waterproof will almost always enjoy a higher level of breathability than the waterproof garments. Furthermore many of the quality windproof garments have a water repellent treatment that will withstand rain showers very effectively.
The Softshell Alternative
This consists of a windproof, water resistant outer layer (many have a water repellent finish) with a lightweight down or fleece liner. This combination provides optimum breathability which allows you to control your core temperature better.
Ensure you wear a wicking base layer and dependent upon temperature a lightweight fleece mid layer. Softshell works where torrential rain is less likely, in a downpour you would get wet; however in showers the garment traps heat and pushes water from the body.
In cold weather when rain is unlikely and you want a lightweight, highly breathable, insulating windproof layer then softshell is a fabulous addition to anybody’s kit bag.
Have a look at Sprayway in our online store.
Duvet Jackets
Normally too warm to be worn when whilst active (unless you are for example high altitude mountaineering) Duvets jackets are worn during rest breaks or in chilly weather where you may remain static for sometime.
They are phenomenally effective at trapping body heat and work best when as close to the skin as possible i.e. on top of a base layer. Generally filled with goose down or synthetic pile,box wall construction stops movement of down within the garment minimising cold or hot spots.
Protect Your Extremeties
Your head, face and hands require special attention in cold weather.
Given that a large percentage of body heat is lost through the skull (predominantly), wearing a fleece or wool hat is a quick way to raise temperature – Like putting a lid on a pan of boiling water.
If finger dexterity is required in cold weather gloves (windproof, waterproof, fleece) are great but remember that mittens tend to be warmer than gloves as the fingers share the warmth of the mitten.
This moves us finally onto feet, in cold weather you must leave “wriggle room” in the boot, consider using a silk liner with thinner socks as any cramping of the foot can lead to a sluggishness of blood flow and ultimately very cold feet.
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All outdoor activities are potentially dangerous. These article's offer guidelines only, every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions.
If the reader follows any of the advice given then they accept personal responsibility for their actions. North North East LTD.