In order to obtain maximum enjoyment during outdoor activities, a basic knowledge and understanding of clothing and equipment is of utmost importance. Here are some helpful guidelines to ensure comfort and safety during your future outdoor adventures:
SUMMER: Loose fitting, all cotton clothing breathes best. Bring a hat for sun protection, poncho, bandanna, water bottle, skin lotion, lip balm and insect repellant.
SPRING AND AUTUMN: Potentially the most problematic, due to unexpected weather changes. Always expect the unexpected, especially in mountainous regions. Dress in layers...two thin layers insulate far better than one thick layer. Also bring a wool hat, gloves, and poncho.
Winter: Overheating, which allows perspiration to chill you, is of more concern then the cold, unless extreme wind chill is present. Long underwear, such as polypropylene (not cotton), wicks moisture away from the skin. Again...two thin layers of clothing usually insulate better then one thick layer. When backpacking or cross country skiing, do not wear a turtleneck, unless it is the zipper type. When your body temperature rises you'll have difficulty cooling down. Instead, wear a scarf which can easily be removed. All wool military trousers are a wise choice, and can be purchased inexpensively at a surplus store. Leave the jeans at home, as they do not insulate when wet. Rule of thumb: If you think that you might be perspiring, never wear cotton next to your skin!!
OUTDOOR FABRICSWOOL: The best natural fiber for retaining body heat when wet. It is breathable and durable.
SILK: The second best natural fiber and comfortable to wear. Soft and breathable, it insulates without bulk.
COTTON: Though breathable and comfortable, not a wise choice if it can become wet. Perspiration trapped against the skin cools you down as it evaporates. Although good while exerting, moisture will induce chill when you slow down.
POLYPROPYLENE: The lightest of the synthetic fibers, holds the least amount of moisture, and is available in a variety of weights or thicknesses...light, mid, and expedition weight.
PILE: Synthetic and fleecy, an excellent insulator, even when wet. Warm, lightweight, and breathable.
GORE-TEX: Perhaps the best at allowing body vapor to escape, while keeping precipitation out...but with a much higher price tag.
This information is intended to be used as merely a basic guide, since space does not permit mentioning all of the outdoor fabrics available today.
OTHER OUTDOOR TIPS
Water: It is extremely important to maintain body fluid levels in winter, just as in summer. Drink plenty of water! When you permit yourself to become thirsty, you are already becoming dehydrated. In hot weather, partially fill your water bottle, and freeze it overnight. Top it off in the morning, and you'll have cold water all day. Of course, the temperature will dictate how much water should be frozen.
Dress In Layers: If you become warm while active, remove a layer. Don't wait until perspiring profusely. Stuff the extra layer in your daypack until your next break, when you'll put it back on to prevent chill.
Footwear: When hiking or backpacking in steep and/or rocky terrain, wear high-top boots for added ankle support, and to avoid ankle cuts from sharp rocks.
Swimsuit: Wear beneath other clothing on a hot day when the opportunity for a refreshing dip might present itself. Packing aqua shoes/water sandals might also be prudent.
Poncho: Affords protection from rain, wind and provides something dry to rest upon during a break, but not a wise choice in high winds and thunderstorms, when a rain SUIT might be more appropriate.
Litter: Pick it up and pack it out, even if it's not yours...PLEASE!!
Hopefully, the foregoing information will help you to derive more safety, comfort and all-around enjoyment in our great outdoors!