When you hit the trails during extreme cold weather, you must protect yourself with the proper gear in order to avoid a dangerous or life-threatening situation. Any exposed skin is vulnerable to the effects of wind chill. Your gear will maximize its warming capacity while leaving you comfortable and able to travel easily.
Benefits
Extreme cold weather gear has several benefits. First and foremost, it keeps you warm. Your body reacts to cold temperatures by drawing your blood closer to your core. This reaction leaves your extremities vulnerable to frost bite. Your gear will protect your fingers and toes from the cold. Your gear can also help you navigate in winter situations. Crampons or other traction devices can prevent you from slipping on icy surfaces.
Insulating Materials
One of the most important features of extreme cold weather gear is its insulating abilities. There are several types of insulation available. There is a fine line between keeping warmth in and releasing moisture from your body. Some materials perform differently based on your situation and activity level. Natural materials include down and wool. Both of these materials provide excellent insulation. Synthetic insulating materials include thinsulate, fiber pile and polar fleece.
Considerations
You can get the most out of your cold weather gear if you layer your clothing. Layering traps air between your skin and the next layer of clothing. Your body heat warms the air, adding more cold weather protection. It will also allow you to respond to changing conditions. For example, if the weather warms, you can remove an outer layer in order to avoid overheating. According to WildernessSurvival.net, you risk losing even more heat if your clothes become damp because of your activity.
Outer Layer
Your outer shell should be waterproof. Breathable materials are available from some retailers. When traveling during the winter, you must be prepared for changes in weather. A sudden snowstorm could prove life threatening if your clothing becomes wet. If you wear a shell in a darker color, you can take advantage of the radiant heat of the sun to provide you with additional warmth, according to the United State Antarctica Program. You may prefer a shell with a hood in order to avoid loss of heat through your head. A hood will also protect the back of your neck and face.
Cautions
When preparing for extreme cold weather, it is important not to impede circulation in your body. It may be tempting to wear a couple layers of socks to keep your feet warm. If your feet are too cramped in your shoes, you may put yourself at risk for frostbite. The same advice applies to your hands. You should be able to move freely in your winter gear. You can wear thin layers closest to your body to retain heat.
References
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; G. Tortora and S. Reynolds Grabowski; 1996
- Wildwood Survival: Keeping the Heat In—A Guide to Insulation
- Wilderness Survival: Basic Principles of Cold Weather Survival
- United State Antarctica Program: Extreme Cold Weather (ECW) Clothing
