Snow season is just around the corner and with that comes great opportunities to hit the slopes, go snowshoeing, cross country skiing, or just have a good snowball fight. Regardless of your winter snow activities, take the time now to be sure you have the right gear for your sport. If you are warm and comfy, you will enjoy yourself longer and also keep yourself safe from hypothermia. Here are some outer gear shopping tips to keep you going long and strong in your winter outdoor activities.
- Moisture-wicking base and middle layers: The trick with most active winter sports is temperature control as you heat up and begin to sweat and then start to cool down on the lift or at a resting point. A most critical feature of your inner-most layer and also your mid layer is wicking capability so that sweat is drawn away from your skin. If your clothing does not do this for you, you risk not just getting chilled, but hypothermia. It’s always a safe idea to bring extra base layers to change into and get the sweaty ones off your skin.
- Multiple middle layers for less bulk: Make sure you can peel off layers as needed, rather than going for a single, bulkier middle layer. This allows for greater flexibility depending on the conditions and how much you begin to sweat.
- Vents and zips for temperature control: These are critical features to have in your outer layer. Sometimes you start to really heat up, but taking off your waterproof and windproof outer layer is not necessarily wise. Look for jackets that have multiple vents at the critical spots such as arm pits and sides.
- A lightweight, yet wind and waterproof shell: Manufacturers are coming out with amazingly light weight storm shells for tucking away in a pocket to have as an option for weather protection if needed.
- Moisture-wicking head gear: Whether you prefer a hat, head band, baklava, or neck gaiter, go for moisture-wicking properties. Baklavas and neck gaiters offer some variety of ways to wear them and moderate your body temperature.
- Gloves specific to your sport: Depending on your sport and personal preference, you need to decide if gloves or mittens are best for you. Dexterity and ease of use depend on if you need to access zippers or smaller pockets. Regardless, you want a glove or mitten that comes with liners for moisture absorption and the ability to wash so you don’t get “glove stink”. Other great features to look for such as wrist leashes to prevent lost gloves and touch screen sensor capabilities are nice for using your smartphone without having to take of your gloves.
Check out this in-depth glove and mitten review to help you consider the right options for your winter sport.
So don’t go for the bargain basement deals when it comes to your winter sports clothing. Find the right features for you and your sport and you will be comfy and active all winter long.
Featured photo source: Pixabay.com
