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Embrace the Chill for a Better Adventure

When preparing for a hike, especially in cooler weather, it's tempting to layer up until you feel comfortably warm BEFORE setting off for the day. It seems logical: if you're warm at the beginning, you'll stay warm throughout your journey. I do this myself. But here's the counterintuitive truth: if you start your hike feeling warm and cosy, you've already made a mistake. Beginning your hike feeling just a little bit cold is the key to staying comfortable and dry on the trail.

Understanding Your Body's Thermostat

Your body is remarkably efficient at regulating its temperature. When you engage in a physical activity such as hiking, your muscles generate heat, raising your core temperature. This natural rise in body heat means that the layers keeping you warm at the start of the walk can quickly become too much once you're on the move.

The Downside of Starting Warm

• Overheating Quickly: Excess layers cause your body temperature to rise rapidly, leading to discomfort.

• Excessive Sweating: To cool down, your body produces sweat. In cold conditions, this sweat doesn't evaporate easily.

• Wet Clothing: Moisture accumulates in your base layers, making them damp.

• Rapid Cooling: When you pause or the intensity decreases, the damp layers can cool you down too quickly, risking chills or in the worst case potential hypothermia

The Benefits of Starting a Bit Cold

Gradual Warm-Up

• Comfortable Temperature Rise: Starting cold allows your body temperature to increase naturally to a comfortable level without overheating.

• Reduced Sweat Production: Less insulation means your body doesn't need to sweat as much to regulate heat.

Dry Layers Mean Warmth

• Maintained Insulation: Dry clothing retains heat better than damp clothing.

• Avoiding the Chill: Dry base layers prevent the rapid cooling that comes from moisture evaporation.

Energy Conservation

• Fewer Stops: You won't need to pause frequently to adjust layers, maintaining a steady pace.

• Focus on the Experience: Enjoy the hike without the distraction of temperature discomfort.

How to Implement the "Be Bold, Start Cold" Strategy

Dress Appropriately at the start of the walk

• Minimal Layers: Wear just enough to prevent shivering. A good rule is to feel slightly chilly when standing still.

• Breathable Fabrics: Choose moisture-wicking materials for your base layer to manage any sweat that does occur.

Keep Additional Layers Accessible

• Pack Smart: Store extra layers like a lightweight jacket or vest in an easily accessible part of your backpack. I like to keep a warm jacket just inside the top of my pack for easy access

• Use During Rest Stops: Put on additional layers (like my warm jacket above) when you take breaks to prevent cooling down too much.

Monitor and Adjust

• Listen to Your Body: If you start feeling too warm within the first 10-15 minutes, consider removing a layer. The same goes if you feel too cold. Add another layer if you can’t warm up.

• Ventilation: Utilize zippers, vents, and adjustable cuffs to regulate temperature without fully removing layers.

Plan for Weather Changes

• Check the Forecast: Be prepared for shifts in weather by packing appropriate gear.

• Layer Versatility: Opt for layers that are easy to add or remove as needed.

Addressing Common Concerns

"I'm Afraid of Being Too Cold at the Start."

It's normal to feel uneasy about starting off chilly, but remember that this feeling is temporary. Your body will warm up quickly once you begin moving. The initial coolness is a small discomfort compared to the potential issues caused by overheating and damp clothing.

"What If I Never Warm Up?"

If you find that you're still cold after 15-20 minutes of hiking, it's acceptable to add a lightweight layer. The goal is to find a balance where you're comfortably warm without sweating excessively. Listen to your body.

Practical Tips for Your Next Hike

• Warm-Up Exercises: Do some light stretching or movements before starting to get your blood flowing.

• Adjust Accessories: Wear gloves or a hat that are easy to remove once you warm up. I always depart camp on cold mornings with a beanie and gloves on. Then, after I warm them up I put them in a chest pocket or somewhere easily accessible.

Conclusion

Starting your hike feeling warm and cosy might seem appealing, but it sets the stage for overheating and damp clothing, which can lead to discomfort and even health risks. Embracing a bit of chill at the beginning allows your body to adjust naturally, keeping you comfortable, dry, and energized throughout your adventure.

So next time you're gearing up for a hike, Be bold, start cold - resist the urge to over-layer. Your body—and your hiking experience—will thank you.

THAT’S ALL FOR THIS WEEK

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Until next week.

Stay well,

Mowser

Helping hiking enthusiasts explore the great outdoors

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