How Dressing in Layers Keeps You Warm

Whether you are exercising outside or just running errands, dressing in layers helps you stay warm. Here’s how dressing in layers keeps you warm, as well as some tips on how you can make the best use of layers to stay warm.

How (and Why) Layers Work

• Trapping heat – Did you know that air makes a good insulator? It’s true! This is why manufacturers put some form of gas between panes of glass to make insulated windows. When you dress in layers, the air between the layers creates an insulating effect, trapping heat. In addition, the multiple layers (if done correctly – more on that below) simply add more layers that the heat has to get through in order to navigate away from your body.
• Repelling water – Proper layering provides a protection from the weather. If you’re only wearing one layer, a rain or snow event can leave you damp and chilled. The layers help keep the cold precipitation from reaching your skin.
• Wicking moisture – In addition to preventing moisture from coming in from the outside, layers help “wick” moisture away from your skin. If your skin gets too sweaty in cold weather, it can cause you to get chilled; but if the moisture is absorbed by the layers, it helps keep you warm instead.
• Blocking wind – If you are running or walking and generating your own wind, or if you are just out on a cold and windy day, layers act as a breaker for the wind. The more still warm air near your skin, the warmer you’ll feel.
• Cool down – When you layer your clothes, you’re guarding as much against overheating as you are overchilling. When you get hot, you can remove a layer to cool off. This is especially helpful if you go from exercising out in the cold to being in a warm room.

Layering Tips – Get the Most from Your Layers

Layering for optimal benefit is about more than just throwing on multiple sweaters and pants. Here are some tips for optimal layering. Remember, these tips are for the upper and lower body.

1. Start with an inner layer of cotton that is fairly snug. If it’s close to your skin, it helps with the wicking effect described above.
2. The middle layer is looser than the inner one. Materials like fleece and wool are good inner layers. If you’re going for a zip-up collar or underarm zippers to regulate heat, the middle layer is where you’ll want these amenities.
3. Finally, the outer layer should be water-resistant and insulated, preferably made from a material like Gore-Tex. Ankle zippers can help here if you’re covering footwear and underlying layers.

No matter what activities you participate in this winter, try dressing in layers to stay much warmer!

That’s it for now. Until next time Divas, wear your heels well and Be Blessed!

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