Clothing for a windy week
Short answer: Wind makes cold days colder, because it takes the warmth with it. A close fitting inner layer, a warm middle layer and an outer layer that stops the wind make the difference.
Why wind feels like cold
Around the skin lies a thin layer of warmed air, which holds on to a little heat. When it blows, that layer is torn away, and the body has to keep warming new air. That is why a windy day at six degrees feels colder than a still day at the same temperature. The answer is not necessarily thicker clothing, but clothing that stops the wind before it reaches the body.
The close inner layer
The innermost layer should lie flat and close, so that the wind cannot pull in between the layers. Clothing made of viscose from bamboo lies softly against the skin and is smooth, so it slides well under a middle layer. Boody is a brand that has bamboo in its range, and you can see what is available here: Boody. Choose a colour that does not show through if you are going to take the jacket off indoors.
Long sleeves as a base
The wind settles especially in the wrists, the neck and the lower back. That is why a long sleeve T-shirt is a practical base, because the sleeves cover the wrists and the shirt can be tucked into the trousers so that nothing draughts. See bamboo long sleeve T-shirt for men. Choose a length that covers the lower back when you raise your arms or bend over, and avoid short models that let the wind in.
An outer layer that really keeps the wind out
Here it matters that the jacket is tightly woven or has a windproof membrane. A hood, elastic at the cuffs and a zip right up to the neck also make a big difference. A loose jacket flaps and lets air in, so choose a fit that does not flutter but still leaves room for a layer underneath. Remember that a jacket without insulation does not give much warmth on its own, so it has to be used with the layers beneath.
When it is windy and warm
Wind is not always cold. On warm, windy days a light top can be very comfortable, because the wind helps the sweat to evaporate. See bamboo tank top for men. Do remember sun cream though, because the wind can hide how strongly the sun is actually burning. Put a thin long sleeved top in your bag, so you can quickly cover shoulders and arms if it gets colder towards evening.
Care after windy days
Clothes worn in the wind are often a little dusty and can smell of outdoor air. Hang them to air before you put them in the laundry. Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees and skip fabric softener. Let it dry flat or on a hanger, and avoid stretching sleeves and neckline when you hang it up. That way the fit lasts for many seasons.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it feel colder when it is windy
The wind removes the thin layer of warm air around the body, so it loses heat faster. That is why the same temperature feels colder in the wind.
What matters most in windy weather, the middle layer or the outer layer
The outer layer, because it has to stop the wind before it reaches the other layers. With a good outer layer, the middle layer can be thinner.
Should I choose a loose or a close fitting jacket
A jacket that does not flap is best. It should have room for a layer underneath, but not be so loose that the wind can blow in from below.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
