Winter’s here. It is that time of the year when your jackets and coats are finally put to use after a long and sparkling summer. Winter can be so exciting with countless snowballs being hurled at each other. There’s fun, there’s frolic, and there’s food. Also, winter is the time when we love venturing out in the open, with hills, valleys, and snow surrounding us.

Staying warm and dry during winter is quite a challenge. It is quite a task to keep yourself up and running during winter.  This winter, you need to embrace COLD in order to stay warm.  Here’s how:

C- Clean clothes are warm. If your clothes become wet because of sweat then they will lose their insulating properties. Even a t-shirt has a specific amount of “loft.” If the t- shirt is not clean, that loft is bound to get compromised. Make sure you wear clean clothes whenever you go out in the cold in order to retain the loft.

O- Overheating will make you feel cold quicker than usual. When you sweat in cold temperatures, it becomes quite difficult for you to dry yourself up. If you start to sweat, make sure you drop a layer so that sweat doesn’t get the better of you. It is advisable to stop wearing multiple pairs of socks to prevent your toes from freezing. A Single pair of control knits will keep you warm while pulling perspiration away from your feet if they begin to sweat.

L-Layering has become a well known buzzword in the outdoor community because it is used and practised so much, this is down to it being so effective. Staying warm is all about trapping air, and layering is still the best way to do that. However it is best to make sure your clothing isn’t too tight. Compression means a loss of insulating properties, so it is much better to keep your clothing loose. For girls and ladies, Leggings are the perfect layer under snow pants, jeans, or just a dress. These can also have hidden pockets large enough to hold your passport, phone, or cash.

D- Dry- Dry clothing is warm clothing. Merino wool is a popular material for winter and is favoured by many outdoor lovers. You need to make sure that you’re always starting with dry clothing. Alternating socks and shirts can help. If you start with a damp base layer, you’ll likely by damp most of the day. If you practice the acronym COLD, i can ensure you'll have a much more pleasurable winter.

Additionally, get into the spirit of the season by volunteering and making a difference in your community! There are tons of organisations which run during the winter. Whether it’s partying over barbecuing or giving blankets and winter clothes to those in need, helping out can give you a warm feeling inside to melt away the winter’s chill! Winter is a time when a lot of people are in need, so don’t hesitate to get out there and lend a hand!

Happy winter folks!