In winter, stepping out of a warm bed often leaves people puzzled by the question: “What should I wear today?” Wearing too many layers can hinder daily activities and may not be stylish, while wearing too few layers raises the risk of catching a cold.
After checking the weather forecast for the coming days, many complain that they just want to throw on all the clothes in their wardrobe without worrying about how they look.
However, in reality, layering three outer garments does not provide as much warmth as dressing properly to stay warm.
Let’s explore the scientific principles of how clothing keeps us warm. Clothing can warm the body by reducing heat conduction. This means that clothing reduces the convective conflict between cold air and warm air, thereby retaining warmth. Thus, to stay warm, it is essential to minimize heat transfer.
So how should we dress in the coming days to stay warmer? Experts have provided a warm dressing formula: a soft and lightweight inner layer; a middle layer for insulation; and an outer layer for wind resistance. Following this formula along with keeping the neck, head, hands, and feet warm allows us to survive even in snowy conditions.
To stay warm, minimize heat transfer.
First Layer: Base Layer
When choosing the base layer of clothing, some prefer thicker base garments, believing they provide better warmth. In fact, overly thick base layers can make the wearer uncomfortable and increase air circulation, thereby reducing the insulation properties of the clothing.
Additionally, winter air is often very dry, making the skin more sensitive. Therefore, it is advisable to choose soft underwear that does not contain irritating fabrics.
Experts recommend selecting base layers made from thin, soft cotton that wicks away sweat while keeping you warm.
Second Layer: Sweater
Typically, the middle layer serves as the insulating layer and does not come into direct contact with the skin. Therefore, it is best to choose materials that are highly absorbent, such as cashmere wool or cotton.
In terms of style, clothing in the middle layer should fit properly. Clothes that are too tight do not help with insulation and can hinder temperature regulation. Conversely, overly loose clothing can allow cold air to enter, resulting in heat loss and reduced warmth.
For the elderly and those with weak health, it is advisable to wear an additional vest or cardigan.
Third Layer: Outerwear
The warmth provided by outerwear primarily comes from the fabric and the inner lining. This is easy to understand – the fiber density of the fabric affects wind resistance; the type and thickness of the inner lining influence heat retention.
Generally, fabrics used for down jackets, puffer jackets, and leather coats have a relatively high fiber density, providing excellent wind resistance. However, the lining of leather jackets may not be as thick, resulting in lower warmth retention.
Down and synthetic insulation in down jackets and puffer jackets are typically lightly padded, not overly thick, enabling them to trap air and create a protective layer for heat retention, which is why they keep you warmer.
Wool coats are usually made from materials including wool and other natural fibers such as polyester, rayon, and blends of synthetic fibers, with thin linings resulting in weaker heat retention performance.
