Layers Are Key To Keeping Warm When Hiking In Cold Climates
We may have a light jacket for the summer and a heavier thicker coat for winter as our key way to keep warm from day to day. But when you are hiking you need to consider how best to keep warm whilst also overheating the body and carrying too much weight. Also, the types of fabric are very important if you want to keep warm, dry and comfortable when you are enjoying hiking.
By wearing layers of different types of clothing you can regulate your temperature to suit how you are feeling and where you are on your hike. For example, when on a well-known route like the three Peaks in the North of England, you may start walking on lower ground that is fairly flat. It may also be windy and wet, so on a winter's day you may start off wearing a few layers to keep you comfortable. But as you advance along the route and encounter climbs and descents, you can easily remove layers to regulate body temperature.
The layer closest to the skin known as base layers - should be quite close fitting to the skin. And is actually best to be made of new synthetic materials. Cotton inner layers are not a good idea as cotton can get damp if you perspire and then the material will absorb more body heat and you can quickly end up catching a cold or at least rather uncomfortable.
The next layer may be all you need when hiking in a milder, dry cold climate. This needs to be not too close fitting but also not too loose. Fleece and polyester are the best fabrics for this layer. Fleece is lightweight and windproof. You may actually need more than one mid layer depending on your intended walking route.
The outer layer will consist of a windproof and waterproof jacket and trousers. Make sure this layer is a breathable fabric such as Gore-Tex and that the fabric is durable not easily torn or work away as this layer is most crucial for protecting you from the elements. Zips can come in handy here too under the arms of jackets or at the bottom of trousers for increased comfort.
The gaps between the layers act to insulate the body better from the colder elements while making it easier to remove layers as the weather or altitude changes and add extra warmth and protection from the cold, wind and rain. Do make sure to check weather expected on your hiking route and research the best quality and value outdoor clothing online such as base layers and waterproof jackets. And know to expect changeable weather when hiking in the UK!
By wearing layers of different types of clothing you can regulate your temperature to suit how you are feeling and where you are on your hike. For example, when on a well-known route like the three Peaks in the North of England, you may start walking on lower ground that is fairly flat. It may also be windy and wet, so on a winter's day you may start off wearing a few layers to keep you comfortable. But as you advance along the route and encounter climbs and descents, you can easily remove layers to regulate body temperature.
The layer closest to the skin known as base layers - should be quite close fitting to the skin. And is actually best to be made of new synthetic materials. Cotton inner layers are not a good idea as cotton can get damp if you perspire and then the material will absorb more body heat and you can quickly end up catching a cold or at least rather uncomfortable.
The next layer may be all you need when hiking in a milder, dry cold climate. This needs to be not too close fitting but also not too loose. Fleece and polyester are the best fabrics for this layer. Fleece is lightweight and windproof. You may actually need more than one mid layer depending on your intended walking route.
The outer layer will consist of a windproof and waterproof jacket and trousers. Make sure this layer is a breathable fabric such as Gore-Tex and that the fabric is durable not easily torn or work away as this layer is most crucial for protecting you from the elements. Zips can come in handy here too under the arms of jackets or at the bottom of trousers for increased comfort.
The gaps between the layers act to insulate the body better from the colder elements while making it easier to remove layers as the weather or altitude changes and add extra warmth and protection from the cold, wind and rain. Do make sure to check weather expected on your hiking route and research the best quality and value outdoor clothing online such as base layers and waterproof jackets. And know to expect changeable weather when hiking in the UK!
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