Hiking in Cooler Weather: Thoughts about Staying Warm

Crisp fall days are in full swing here in Colorado as well as in many regions around the globe. A few ski resorts are already opening ski runs and winter is on its way! There's no need to hibernate and wait for spring to go hiking... dress appropriately so you can stay active throughout the winter months with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter walks. 
  
Layer Up!

An issue we face in winter is getting overheated by wearing too heavy or too much clothing. The more aerobic the sport, the more this is a factor. Being wet from perspiration subjects you to evaporative cooling. That means you can get colder and increase your risk for hypothermia when you sweat. Brrrr!

Consider the concept of "layering". Having multiple items of clothing available to put on and take off as you chill or begin to overheat helps to keep that perspiration level at a minimum. Clothing fabrics do make a difference. Cotton is not recommended for colder climates because it retains moisture when wet.  

Start next to your skin with a "base" layer, such as lightweight synthetic or wool long johns and t-necks. Add an "insulating" layer, such as microfleece or polarfleece. Top it all off with a breathable "outer" layer or "shell", such as a waterproof, breathable Gore-tex or more breathable, water-resistant softshell. 
Add more insulating layers (more microfleece or a vest) as you cool down and take them off when you feel you begin to overheat. I like to carry a down sweater in my pack as an extra insulating layer to don when stopping for a break.

Extremities in Extreme Weather

Hands, feet, face, and ears can be particularly sensitive to cold.  These areas are often the first to be prone to frostnip or frostbite, too.  Everyone has a different tolerance level.  Here are a few thoughts about how I keep extremities warm:

• Gloves or Mittens:  Gloves are nice when you are exerting yourself, but if you plan on stopping for any length of time (i.e., ski lift riding or perhaps just a lunch break), mittens are warmer.  A wicking glove liner under a mitten can be a saving grace if it's cold and you have to do something that requires a glove to come off (like fasten a snowshoe binding!).  Slide a handwarmer between the glove liner and mitten if your fingers are really cold.

• Shoes & Socks:  I have good fitting, insulated boots for activities such as snowshoeing.  A medium-thickness, merino wool sock works well for me.  If you have room in your boot, you may want a couple of layers but keep in mind you'll need some literal wiggle room for your toes.

       

• Face, Head, Ears:  Recommended items include a Fleece/Windproof Earband, Toques/Knit hat, and Neck gaiter/Balaclava.  It's nice to have a hood on your insulating or shell layer for added protection from wind & cold. 

Have fun & keep warm!    

Note: These are only suggestions for you to consider.  They are not intended to be a replacement for your good judgment.  If it is cold outside and you don't feel you have appropriate clothing, go visit your local gym.