CLOTHES FOR CHILLY TRAILS
The Philippines is a tropical country with warm and humid weather for most of the year. But did you know that there are some places in the Philippines that can get quite cold, especially during the rainy season or the “ber” months (September to December)? If you’re planning to hike or camp in places like Mt. Pulag, Mt. Ulap, or Mt. Apo, you’ll need to prepare some cold weather hiking clothes to keep you cozy and comfortable on the trail. In this post, we’ll share with you some tips on how to choose the best hiking clothes for cold weather in the Philippines, and what to wear and bring for your hike.
Layered Clothing
The most important thing to remember when hiking in cold weather is to wear layered clothing. Layering means wearing multiple layers of clothing that you can add or remove as the temperature and conditions change. Layering helps you regulate your body temperature, stay dry, and prevent overheating or hypothermia.
There are three basic layers of clothing for cold weather hiking: base layer, mid layer, and outer layer.
- Base Layer: The base layer is the layer that touches your skin. It should be made of a moisture-wicking fabric that can pull sweat away from your skin and keep you dry and comfortable. Some examples of moisture-wicking fabrics are nylon, polyester, or merino wool. The base layer should also fit snugly but not too tightly, and cover as much of your body as possible. You can wear a long-sleeved shirt and tight leggings or compression pants as your base layer.
- Mid Layer: The mid layer is the layer that provides insulation and warmth. It should be made of a breathable and lightweight fabric that can trap body heat and keep you warm. Some examples of breathable and lightweight fabrics are fleece, down, or synthetic fill. The mid layer should also fit comfortably over your base layer, but not too loosely that it creates gaps or air pockets. You can wear a fleece jacket, a puffy jacket, or a sweater as your mid layer.
- Outer Layer: The outer layer is the layer that provides protection from rain, wind, and other elements. It should be made of a waterproof and windproof fabric that can block rain and wind, but also let you sweat without feeling like you’re wearing a plastic bag. Some examples of waterproof and windproof fabrics are Gore-Tex, nylon, or polyester. The outer layer should also fit well over your mid and base layers, but not too tightly that it compresses them or reduces their effectiveness. You can wear a rain jacket, a windbreaker, or a poncho as your outer layer.
Sweater
A sweater is a versatile option for cold weather hiking because it can serve as both a mid layer or an outer layer depending on the temperature and conditions.
As a mid layer: A sweater can provide insulation and warmth over your base layer when it’s cold but not raining or windy. Look for a sweater that is made of fleece, down, or synthetic fill, which are breathable and lightweight fabrics that can trap body heat and keep you warm. Avoid a sweater that is made of wool, which can be itchy and uncomfortable on your skin.
As an outer layer: A sweater can provide protection from mild rain, wind, or other elements over your base layer when it’s not too cold or wet. Look for a sweater that is made of nylon, polyester, or Gore-Tex, which are waterproof and windproof fabrics that can block rain and wind, but also let you sweat without feeling like you’re wearing a plastic bag.
Bonnet
Your head is one part of your body that loses heat quickly because it has many blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. It is also one part of your body that cannot shiver to generate heat. A bonnet can prevent heat loss by covering your head with a warm fabric. It can also protect your ears from frostbite by keeping them covered as well. Look for a bonnet that is made of fleece, wool, or synthetic material, which are warm and insulating fabrics. You may also want to look for a bonnet that has ear flaps, a chin strap, or pom-poms for extra warmth and style.
Scarf
Your neck is another part of your body that loses heat quickly because it has many blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. It is also exposed to cold air and wind when you turn your head or breathe. A scarf can prevent heat loss by wrapping your neck with a warm fabric. It can also protect your throat and lungs from cold air and wind by acting as a filter. Look for a scarf that is made of fleece, wool, or synthetic material, which are warm and insulating fabrics.
You may also want to look for a scarf that has a loop or a button closure, which can keep it in place and prevent it from getting caught on branches or poles. You can also choose a scarf that has a bright color or a pattern, which can add some flair to your outfit.
Gloves
Your hands are another part of your body that loses heat quickly because they have many blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. They are also exposed to cold air and wind when you hold things or use poles. Gloves can prevent heat loss by covering your hands with a warm fabric. They can also protect your fingers from scratches and cuts. Look for gloves that are made of fleece, wool, or synthetic material, which are warm and insulating fabrics.
You may also want to look for gloves that have waterproof shells, windproof liners, or touchscreen compatibility for extra protection and convenience.
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