Keep warm from the inside - out,
cosy and comfy at the skin level means you can have fun in the cold
The Base Layer
The base layer is the layer next to the
skin, usually thought of as being underwear, or in cold climates, "thermal"
underwear. Despite cold temperatures, perspiration is still a problem,
in fact it can be more so than in a temperate climate. The body loses
moisture at almost all times whether undergoing any great level of exertion
or not. If there are numerous insulating layers keeping you warm, then
it is more difficult for the perspiration to be able to escape. If the
perspiration is not removed it will result in the wearer becoming uncomfortable
and a feeling of "clamminess" as well as decreasing the efficiency of
the insulating layers.
Underwear that is able to wick this moisture
away from the skin surface therefore becomes more important and this
is an important factor in choosing garments. Modern "thermals" are made
of synthetic fibers such and polypropylene or "fleece" that have good
insulating properties and are also able to efficiently wick moisture
away from the skin.
Zips at the neck or even full length
can help regulate temperature
In selecting clothing for cold and
extreme weather the priorities are:
