Staying Safe and Having Fun on a Winter Excursion
If you’re like most of us, when the holidays are over, you just need a break. You could head south, but that involves time in airports, getting a rental car, finding a place that’s not overrun by snowbirds. There are plenty of places in the northeast, where you can enjoy a crisp day outdoors and a cozy fire inside. You can have a great time without the hassle of extended travel, but there are some things you want to do to stay safe and warm, and truly enjoy yourself.
Layering: The Key to Keeping Warm Outside in the Winter
You don’t need (or want) a bulky parka. You’ll feel like the Pillsbury dough-boy and you won’t stay as warm as you will with multiple thin layers of the right materials. Wool is fine, but you may get more bang for your buck with fleece, cashmere and even the right knitted clothing.
Ideally, you’ll want at least three layers. Start with a thermal base—think “long underwear.” It’s typically flexible and offers great insulation. Your middle layer should tightly fit over your thermal base, so there’s no empty space for cold to invade. Your outer layer can be looser, for comfort, but you’ll stay warmer with a snugger fit.
Fingers and Toes, Ears and Nose
These are the parts of your body that will be most susceptible to cold and potential frostbite:
- Good gloves are well worth the investment. They don’t have to be thick…many gloves on the market keep your fingers warm without unreasonably restricting your movement. Mittens will typically keep your hands warmer than gloves, but they’ll make it more difficult to do things with your hands.
- Wear at least two pairs of socks. Ideally, you’ll want socks that wick away moisture, so that your feet don’t get wet when you perspire. You also want to invest in water-resistant shoes.
- The best insulation for your ears?—Hair. Wear it over your ears, if possible. If you can’t, find a hat that completely covers your ears.
- A wool scarf can help keep your nose warm. Be careful, though, that you don’t create condensation when you breath. If the scarf gets wet, it’ll be worse than no protection at all.
Protect Your Skin
One of the most uncomfortable conditions that arises in the winter is dried or cracking skin, caused by the lower humidity in the air, as well as the effects of gas or electric heat. You want to put moisturizer on your hands and feet every morning in the winter. In addition, Vitamin E can help ensure that your skin doesn’t dry out. It’s commonly available in sunflower seeds, almonds, peanut butter and pumpkins.
