Most people would agree that being extremely cold is one of life’s most uncomfortable experiences. But, it’s also dangerous. More than 1,300 people in the United States alone die from cold exposure every single year. If you have to spend time outside in extreme temperatures, taking the proper precautions could be the difference between life and death.
We’re here to help you be more prepared.
Read on to learn the best tips for staying warm even in the most extreme types of winter weather.
Get the Right Outdoor Clothing
The most important way to stay warm is to dress the part. You can start by wearing thick winter socks for men and boots to keep your feet warm, especially if you’ll be out walking in the snow. You also need to protect your face and neck, which can quickly become too cold and at risk for frostbite. Wearing a balaclava can help you cover as much skin as possible, helping to trap in the heat and keep you comfortable.
Another great way to keep your core body temperature high is to wear heated clothing. For example, shop around for the best heated vests to provide continuous heat to your core.
Move as Much as Possible
When you’re spending time outside during the winter, moving your body is key. Once you take breaks, your body will naturally start to cool down, making it hard for you to warm up again. So, if you’re out hiking, for example, skip the breaks that you might take on the trail during the summer in favor of staying active.
Drink Plenty of Water
While drinking cold water might not sound like a good strategy for staying warm, hear us out. Drinking water keeps you hydrated, which, in turn, keeps your blood circulating properly. Good blood circulation helps you stay warm, even during extreme temperatures. So, drink plenty of water before you head outside and bring more with you to continue drinking while you’re out.
Remember to Layer
As we mentioned above, choosing the right clothing is key, but it’s also important to layer as many pieces as you can. It’s a good idea to start with thermal underwear and then add to it. If you’re going to be spending time in the snow, your final layer should be something that’s waterproof, like snow pants, so you won’t have to worry about the snow seeping into your clothes.
Keep Your Head Covered
Since you lose heat through your heat more quickly than you do through other body parts, it’s important to keep your head covered to stay warm. However, not just any hat will do the trick. It’s best to choose a fleece-lined knit hat, which will provide you with the maximum amount of warmth while you’re out in the cold.
Staying Warm in Cold Winter Weather
We hope that after reading these tips on staying warm, you have a better idea of how to prepare before spending time outside in the cold. Being strategic can help keep you comfortable on even the coldest days, and keep you safe in the process.
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