WILD CHILD: What to Wear for Cold Outdoor Play
It’s getting colder outside every day. Don’t let this stop your family from spending time outdoors.
What do you wear to stay warm? We hear this a lot. It really is much simpler to answer those questions than you may imagine. If you can count to three, and avoid cotton you can do this!
Dress in layers – items of clothing worn over each other. Double the layers for colder weather, and reduce the layers for warmer days or more active outdoor adventures.
Base or first layer – (The thin layer) this layer keeps the sweat off your and keeps you dry. Check your closet – specialty wool or synthetic long underwear isn’t necessary. Polyester or silk pajamas, fleece lined tights (my personal favourite), tank tops and stretchy long sleeved women’s wear, hockey or sportswear all work perfectly. Check the label – if it lists cotton move on, otherwise it should work.
Mid-layer – (the thick layer) this layer traps your body heat and sucks the moisture away from your base layer so that it can evaporate. Fleece or wool sweaters and pants are best. Pajamas and sportswear work perfectly.
Shell or outer layer – (the outside layer) this layer blocks the wind and resists the wet. Snow coats, snow pants, rain coats, rain pants all work well depending on the temperature. Insulated mitts and boots also fill this category.
Don’t forget your feet and hands! Try an extra pair of thin wool gloves inside your puffy mitts on really cold days. Two pairs of socks can make a big difference. A note about socks: Most people wear cotton socks and get cold feet. If you don’t have wool or don’t like it, check out the silly sock selection at the dollar store – often you will find fleece or other synthetic socks for very low prices.
Mind the gap – layers only work if the cold isn’t touching your skin. Watch for gaps between sleeves and gloves, socks and pants, jacket backs and snow pants, and around your neck. Tuck clothing in, wear scarves and stay warm.
Finally stay active. Active bodies make lots of heat. Slide/roll down hills, build snow men and stick forts, have a snow ball fight or play tag, and just have fun!
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Written by Tandy Morton, Wild Child Playgroup Facilitator