Stay Warm and Active in Cold Weather

We've all heard that when it's cold outside we need to dress in layers. That's all well and good, but dressing in layers does absolutely no good if you wear the wrong things or if you get sweaty. So here's how you stay warm in cold weather.

Before we get started, there is one rule you need to know.

Rule #1 AVOID COTTON. There's a saying amongst outdoorsy people and that is, "Cotton kills." Why? You ask. Because when cotton gets wet, it loses all insulating ability which means you get very, very cold, very, very fast. This is a recipe for disaster.

That said, here's how to dress to stay warm.

1st Layer
Polyester or silk underwear and bra (for women of course) , polyester or nylon sock liners. Sunscreen for any exposed skin, including your lips.

2nd Layer
Polyester or silk long sleeved thermal shirt and thermal long underwear, wool socks. I prefer long underwear that's skin tight and long enough to tuck into my pants. Looser long underwear doesn't trap as much heat. And one more thing. Why 2 layers of socks, you ask? First, warmth. Second, blister prevention.

3rd Layer
Depending on how cold it is outside, either a long sleeved polyester shirt and wool pants or a short sleeved polyester shirt and a heavy duty pair of polyester pants.

4th Layer
Again, depending on how cold it is, either snow pants and a heavy coat with a stocking cap and Balaclava (neck gaiter) or wind pants with your heavy coat, stocking cap and Balaclava. Slip your hands into a pair of polyester glove liners.

5th Layer
Mittens and water proof boots, sunglasses, goggles or other UV protection for your eyes. If you're going out in deep snow, then use gaiters, too.

Now that you're dressed for a blizzard...It's important not to allow yourself to sweat excessively. Sweat equals moisture and even with the most advanced fabrics that moisture will eventually equal cold, especially when you stop moving. The key is to shed layers before you get too hot, then put those layers back on before you get too cold. Yes, that does mean stopping a couple more times while on the trail, but trust me it makes a much nicer, much safer trip.

Of course even the most diligent of shedding layers doesn't stop all sweat. Armpits, the back and shoulders where backpacks and hydration systems make contact with the body and socks are prime candidates for moisture buildup.

So what's the answer? Always carry spare dry clothing. Even if you don't need it on the trail, you will appreciate changing into dry clothes at camp and/or for the ride back home.

In your bag:
Dry underwear, dry bra, dry thermal top, dry thermal pants, dry pants, dry long sleeve shirt, dry socks and liners (2 pair), dry stocking cap, dry mittens and glove liners and dry shoes.