I live in Montana but am not native to the northwest, from the south originally. I don’t own a car (walkable cities ftw) so I’m exposed to the elements almost daily. I’ve been making it work in the winters with layering and clutch thrift store finds but I still don’t fundamentally understand what determines good vs bad fabrics/coats/socks for this climate. Please help!
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Disclaimer: i have more experience with hiking gear for cold/wet climates, but I’m sure it also applies somewhat for everyday wear.
Layering is a good idea. When layering, each layer should fulfill a separate purpose. These are the typical layers for top-wear:
* The base-layer should be comfortable and breathable. If you are not going to sweat, cotton is ok. If you might sweat, then a synthetic polyester base layer can help wick away the sweat. If money is not an issue, merino wool is even better because wool is antibacterial and so you won’t smell even if you sweat all day.
* The mid-layer should be warm yet still breathable. Fleece is very common for a mid-layer.
* The insulation layer will help you keep heat close to your body. Down (or synthetic down) is really good at this. I personally like to wear a sleeveless down vest because it blocks less airflow to your lower layers and therefore allows sweat to be delivered outside through the arm pits. The important thing is that the insulation layer does not get wet or it loses its function, that’s why the next layer is…
* The top layer, designed to keep you dry from outside. Since the top layer will not be a very breathable material, a wide and airy cut is good. A rain jacket with ventilation cuts under your arms is great if you are very active. If you’re just commuting, a woolen coat will also work well enough in light rain or even heavy snow. Complement with an umbrella in heavy rain.
For bottom-wear you can layer similarly. Polyester underwear, woolen or cotton long johns if it’s very cold, and whatever you prefer for pants (Jeans are ok). If it’s very cold and wet, hardshell pants. If you are out in the rain all day, you might also want gaiters. They make it so rainwater runs off outside of your shoes and not into your shoes.
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