You can have more fun skiing, building snow castles, or hiking through the snow if you stay warm and dry. When you dress warmly, and in layers, you can regulate your body temperature by taking off or putting on layers as necessary. You'll be a lot safer too. Getting wet and cold causes hypothermia.
Make sure you are outfitted with the following clothing before heading out the door this winter:
- Long underwear (top and bottoms): Avoid all-cotton underwear. Instead, choose cotton-lined wools, a mesh, or polypropylene (which feels good next to your skin, dries quickly, and absorbs sweat).
- Socks: one pair of cotton or polypropylene socks, under two pairs of wool socks.
- Boots: Waterproof or water-resistant boots, large enough to accommodate several layers of socks.
- Shirts: a turtleneck, then a wool shirt or sweater, and a jacket.
- Pants: avoid jeans, as they get wet quickly and stay wet. Instead, wear wool pants.
- Outer layer: a wind-proof, water-resistant, breathable jacket or parka and insulated pants of the same construction. A long coat is warmer than a short one; a two-piece snowsuit (bib pants and jacket) is warmer than a one-piece.
- Head covering: a balaclava, hat, or headband should be worn under your hooded jacket (60 percent of heat loss is through the head). You might also want to wear a scarf to keep your neck warm.
- Gloves: mittens are warmer than fingered gloves. These should be made of a water-resistant material.
- Sun protection: The sun's rays can still burn, even in the winter. Wear sunglasses to prevent snow blindness. Gray or green lenses work best. Also wear sun-protective lotion on all parts of your body exposed to the sun. (And don't forget your lips.)
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