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Hacks to stay warm in cold weather

Published Jan 28, 2019 8:38 PM EST | Updated Jan 28, 2019 8:38 PM EST

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heat wave in Florida

When the weather is all ice, snow and frigid temperatures, sometimes it feels like you’ll never get warm again. But if you can’t escape to a tropical beach vacation or go into hibernation, there are several methods you can employ to make the cold more tolerable.

Try these seven hacks to stay warm in cold weather.

1. Layer the right way

Instead of relying on your winter coat to do all the warming work, learn to dress in strategic layers that you can add to or remove as needed. REI lays out the dependable layering strategy people use for outdoor cold-weather activities.

  • Baselayer: This layer’s purpose is to draw moisture away from your skin, so you don’t become chilled. Choose wicking fabrics, such as polyester or nylon. The fabrics can range from lightweight to heavyweight — with the heavier ones generally keeping you warmer. But as long as this layer is wicking and comfortable under the rest of your clothing, it’s serving its purpose.

  • Middlelayer: This is your insulation layer that helps you retain body heat. “In general, thicker (or puffier) equals warmer, though the efficiency of the insulating material is also important,” according to REI. Down insulation and its synthetic counterpart are common materials for this layer. And many people choose fleece — especially for active outdoor activities — for its warmth and breathability.

  • Outerlayer: This shell layer protects you from wind and precipitation. Most varieties have at least a little breathability to allow perspiration to escape, and the fabric is typically treated with a water repellent. “Generally, pricier equals drier,” REI says.

2. Stay dry

No, going outside in the cold with wet hair isn’t automatically going to get you sick. (You still have to be exposed to germs.) But staying dry is key for maintaining body heat in cold weather. And that’s especially important if you plan on engaging in any physical activities outdoors. “Exercise generates a considerable amount of heat — enough to make you feel like it’s much warmer than it really is,” according to Mayo Clinic. “The evaporation of sweat, however, pulls heat from your body and you feel chilled.”

That’s where your moisture-wicking base layer becomes critical. Avoid fabrics that stay wet, such as cotton. And if you do end up wearing some damp clothing — whether it be from sweat or precipitation — remove it as soon as possible.

3. Wear a hat and scarf

snowmen

It’s a myth that you lose most of your body heat through your head. In fact, it usually accounts for about a fifth to a third of your total heat loss, according to Healthline. However, it’s still an important spot to protect in cold weather. “Head heat loss changes with how cold it is,” Healthline says. “The lower the temperature, the higher percentage head heat loss.” So prevent that unnecessary heat loss simply by wearing a hat.

And what looks great with a cozy winter hat? A warm, chunky scarf. Scarves also can prevent heat loss from exposed skin, as well as cut the bite of cold air as it enters your body. “Loosely wrap a scarf around your nose and mouth to warm the air before it enters your lungs,” the American Lung Associationrecommends. “Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.”

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