How You Do: Staying Warm in the Winter

[I used to think I knew everything…until I found myself stranded in the middle of adulthood with no map and no one to guide me when I got lost. I have learned a lot since then - from how to balance a checkbook to how to sew on a button - and will share my wisdom with you.

By Carly

Every Monday I will be back to teach you how to do something useful, even if it also happens to be completely random. Because, hey, you never know when you just might need to know how to change a tire…or mix a perfect martini.]

Even though winter will not even START for another two weeks (I know… I’m crying on the inside), those of us who don’t live in Hawaii are already freezing each time we step outside. As the proud owner of a circulation disorder that sucks all the blood out of my digits and basically never lets me be warm, I’ve collected some good tips over the years for staying toasty (like eating soup). And as it’s not always possible to have Mom looking over your shoulder telling you to put on a jacket, I’m happy to step into that role for now.

Tip 1: Hats and Mittens

You probably already know this from elementary school, but the vast majority of body heat is lost through the head. If it’s cold where you live, get yourself a cute hat and wear it often. It can be difficult to avoid the pitfalls of hat hair, but fudges such as earmuffs or thick headbands that cover the ears can help with that. One good thing about hats is that they’re generally small—you can stick it into your purse or bag and just take it out when you start to get chilly.

Also, wear mittens rather than gloves. Gloves are fine for weather that’s only brisk, but they won’t cut it in the deep freezes. Mittens keep your hands warmer because they group your fingers together, which allows them to retain more heat.

Tip 2: Layering

There’s an art to layering in a non-fashion way. You want to strike a balance between wearing clothes that are a) comfortable, so you won’t end up trying to fix a wedgie that is three layers down, and b) practical, so your clothes will actually keep you warm. How do you do that?

Make sure your innermost layers are breathable, otherwise you’ll end up swimming in sweat and getting all sticky. Middle layers should be insular to keep your heat near your body, and they should be thin and lightweight if possible. Bring on the bulkiness for your outer layers, but make sure they’re relatively easy to take off if necessary. And remember—layering can be good for extremities, too. Wearing two or three pairs of socks in really cold weather is a great way to keep your feet both dry and warm.

Tip 3: Be Prepared

The Scout motto can help you out in winter. If you think there’s a chance you might get wet while out and about, bring a change of clothes or a spare pair of socks. Grab some hand warmers the next time you’re at a place that sells them, and keep them with you just in case. And don’t forget that jacket!

[Image courtesy of bearsinboston.wordpress.com.]