There's nothing worse than realizing that you're not dressed warm enough for the harsh winter temperatures. That’s exactly why it’s important to know how to layer warm clothes when it’s cold outside. Keeping yourself covered from head to toe is super important during the winter, as the cold temperatures can increase the risk of getting hypothermia and frostbite. With a few basic winter pieces in your wardrobe and an understanding of how to layer, you can stay fashionably warm this winter.
How To Layer Clothes When It's Cold Outside
When dealing with harsh winters, it’s best to look for versatile clothing pieces. These items can be used by themselves or paired with other items in your wardrobe to ensure maximum usage. This also helps you customize your outfit in a stylish manner while staying warm. There are mainly four layers that will help you meet the needs of frigid temperatures: the base layer, middle layer, outer layer, and the final one—adding accessories.
The Base Layer For Absorption
The first layer that you need to get right to keep yourself warm in winter is the base layer. This is the most important layer that needs to be comfortable and made of breathable fabric. Ideally, clothing items made from natural fibers that don't absorb any moisture are recommended.
The base layer of clothing, often made of thermal material, regulates the temperature of your body by responding to changes in temperature to maintain warmth. Using accessories such as leg warmers, hand warmers, or body warmers can also help to prevent air from entering and keep you warm. Although it may not seem significant, the base layer is crucial in keeping your body warm.
The Middle Layer For Insulation
The middle layer is the one that will retain the heat and keep it closer to your body at all times. For this layer, natural fibers like wool and fleece work best. You can also try to look for loosely fitted clothes made of skin soft material that will give you some breathing space. Just make sure that the top or bottom wear that you pick is tight toward the cuffs and ankles so that no air seeps in.
Something light yet effective is enough on a chilly day. This includes clothing items like hoodies, zipper jackets, pullovers, vests, etc. But on days when it's extremely cold outside, it's important that you add another layer. You can also add good quality body warmers like Warmee Body Warmers with this layer.
The Outer Layer For Protection
The outermost layer provides you with the maximum amount of warmth and heat. It blocks out the extreme cold and protects you from snow, wind, and rain. This layer includes items like a long jacket and some thick pants to wear over your bottom. Flannel-lined jeans or leggings are your best bet, as they keep your legs warm at all times. Try to avoid materials like denim, as they don't hold body heat well enough and might not protect your legs in frigid weather. So make sure you wear some heavy-duty pants when you step outside.
These outer layer pieces are usually heavy-duty compared to the previous two layers. But, they need to be breathable and also allow free flow of movement. They should be tightly woven, made of good-quality material, and durable. Usually, materials like faux fur, polyester fleece, nylon, fur, etc. are used. These materials are generally better as they shield you from the outside temperatures and protect your body heat.
It's even better if the outermost layer is made out of water- and wind-resistant materials, as they retain more heat. Additionally, if these items have a hood, pockets, and enclosed cuffs, they're going to give you some extra protection as well. The best part about adding the outer layer is that you can easily take it off if you're feeling too warm.
The Accessory Layer To Keep Your Head, Hands, And Feet Warm
With all these layers of clothing, you’ve ensured that your body is heated and safe from cold temperatures. Now, it's time you take care of the rest of yourself. In extreme winters, body heat can escape from any part of the body that is not protected from freezing temperatures. So it's important that you keep your head, hands, legs, and feet warm along with the rest of your body. You can also check out some hand and foot warmers, and here are some accessories that can help keep your whole body warm
Hats
Most jackets or middle layers of clothing you wear will have hoods. But, in extremely cold weather, it's best to add a cap, beanie, or ski mask to give your ears and face extra protection from the wind and cold.
Scarves
Scarves may seem unnecessary to some, but they do a really good job of protecting your neck and face from getting cold. You may not always wear a turtleneck, a high-neck blouse, or a t-shirt. In these cases, wrapping a woollen scarf around your neck, face, and ears will warm you up just right.
Gloves
Sometimes, pockets are not good enough to keep your hands warm. In these cases, wearing gloves or mittens becomes essential. They are insulated and provide extra protection for your hands in frigid weather.
Boots
Adding boots will do two things: keep your feet and ankles warm, and provide extra traction on icy or wet surfaces. You can add woolen socks to give you some more warmth if necessary. Wearing boots that have extra padding is an added bonus in case the cold gets intense.
Summing Up
Dressing in layers is an easy way to prepare for harsh winter weather. With a base, middle, and outer layer along with a few accessories, you’re all set to layer clothes when it's cold outside. Depending on the kind of cold weather your country or region experiences, you can choose to add or eliminate any of the layers. So, get your wardrobe winter-ready and feel comfortable whenever you step outside in cold temperatures.
FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Layer Clothes For Cold Weather?
The simplest way to layer clothes for cold weather is to add four of them: a base layer, a middle layer, an outer layer, and an additional layer that protects your face, hands, feet, and legs. These layers will protect you from the harsh winter weather and keep you warm at all times.
How Many Layers Should You Wear At 0 Degrees?
When it's 0 degrees outside, it's recommended that you wear all four layers of clothing. Wear a base layer for absorption, a middle layer for insulation, an outer layer for protection, and additional accessories like hats, gloves, boots, etc. It's better to be safe than sorry as you don't want to fall sick or freeze in such harsh weather.
How Can I Stay Warm In Winter Without Wearing Too Many Layers?
If you don't want to add too many layers of clothing, you must invest in some good quality items to wear as your base layer. Clothing that is made out of insulating fabrics and can lock in your body heat is the best one to add to your wardrobe.
Does Wearing More Layers Keep You Warmer?
Yes, wearing multiple layers keeps you warmer in frosty winters. Layers just help retain your body heat and keep you warm for a long time. So wearing layers of clothing is always recommended in colder regions.
What Is The Warmest Material To Wear?
When you're looking for winter clothing, you must pay attention to the material that these items are made of. Wool, silk, fleece, nylon, hemp, and cashmere are some of the warmest materials that you need to look out for.
