Restore Saint Paul: January 2015

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Layering for Winter

Post contributed by Pat, Conservation Corps crew leader:

Winter is here and and without the proper clothes it can become difficult to enjoy the outdoors or even go to the grocery store. With the right clothes and layering them correctly you'll be able do all this and build a snowman after. You will have the carrot after-all.

Example of a base-layer

Layering is a way to use your clothes to keep you warm for any activity. There are three main parts of layering. The base layer (on your skin), mid-layer (over base layer), and outer layer (what the wind hits). Putting these three parts together is simple and can insure a great time outside.

The base layer is the first thing you put on. This layer is to get moisture away from you. Fabrics such as merino wool, silk, or a synthetic blend will take the moisture away from your body to keep you dry. Avoid fabrics that will absorb moisture. Cotton is one of these fabrics to avoid as it will keep the moisture which cools fast in cold weather.

Example of mid-layer

The mid-layer is there help retain warmth. Wool and fleece are great for mid-layers. They both have there pros and cons. Fleece is lighter but only keeps heat if dry as wool is a bit heaver but keeps you warm if wet.

Outer layer is what protects you from the elements. There is a huge variety in outer layers. Waterproof, wind breaker (don't vent as well), and softshell are all considerations for this layer. For winter you're likely to go with something that protect you from the wind and is water resistant. Different weather conditions will change what outer layer you choose. There are links below to help you make the right decision about outer layers for weather conditions.

Example of outer-layer

That's the basics of layering. Play around with different combinations in different weather conditions to optimize comfort and warmth. Enjoy the views around parks and lakes in St. Paul with the sound of snow crunching under your boots. Stay safe!

P.S. Layering if for your both torso and legs. Don't forget mittens and a hat!

Links:

http://www.wikihow.com/Dress-for-the-Cold
http://www.ems.com/shop/index.jsp?categoryId=3942321
http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/layering-system-guide

Contributing Authors

Saint Paul Parks and Recreation--Natural Resources Division:

It would be impossible for us to maintain and improve Saint Paul's natural areas to the high standards that we are used to without the coordinated efforts of our many partner organizations and volunteers. In addition to Saint Paul's Natural Resources employees, the following groups will be contributing to the content of this blog as they work hard to keep Saint Paul "the most livable city in America."

Conservation Corps of Minnesota:

The Conservation Corps provides meaningful work for young people in conserving energy, managing natural resources, responding to disasters and leading volunteers. Not only do they provide training in resource management, safety, job-readiness and technical skills, they help young people develop personal responsibility, a strong work ethic and greater awareness of environmental stewardship. CCM has been a valuable partner in maintaining Saint Paul Parks natural areas for years.

Eco Ranger Acadamy:

The Environmental Services EcoRanger Academy is an educational summer job program for youth interested in plants, wildlife and the natural environment. Youth work throughout the City in forests, lakes and prairies on restoration projects. They perform tasks such as invasive species removal, planting and mulching. The program covers plant anatomy and identification, trees, entomology, water, soils and ecology. Youth that successfully complete the summer program graduate with a certificate and references from their crew leaders.