Dressing for dry cold below minus ten
Short answer: Below minus ten degrees you need to cover all skin and keep the layers dry. Use an undershirt next to the body, a warm hoodie as a middle layer and a close outer layer, and choose tall, warm socks.
When the frost becomes serious
Below minus ten degrees cold is not only unpleasant, it can be dangerous. Bare skin can get frostbite in a short time, especially in wind. The dry air does have one advantage: your clothes do not get wet from outside, so the layers hold the warmth better. The most important thing is to cover the nose, cheeks, ears, hands and feet and to keep an even temperature without sweating too much.
The undershirt as a base
The innermost layer should fit close, be soft and not chafe. See bamboo undershirt for men. Viscose from bamboo takes up moisture but dries more slowly than many synthetic fabrics, so be careful not to sweat too much, because moisture close to the body makes you cold. Bring an extra dry layer if you will be out for long. At such low temperatures the undershirt should be only one of several layers, not the only one.
The hoodie as a middle layer
The middle layer is what holds the warmth. A hoodie is a good choice because it is thick enough to insulate and has a hood that can cover the neck. See bamboo hoodie for men. Keep it under a close outer layer so the wind does not get in. Do not choose a fit so tight that it squeezes, because tight clothes press the air out, and it is the air that insulates.
Tennis socks, but not alone
At minus ten degrees tennis socks alone are too short and too thin. Use them as a thin innermost layer under a tall, warm sock if your boots have room. See bamboo tennis socks for men. Do not squeeze the feet, because tight shoes restrict circulation and make the feet colder. Change into dry socks if they get damp from sweat, and move your toes to keep the blood flowing.
Protect the skin and know the warning signs
Cover skin you would otherwise leave bare: nose, cheeks, ears, hands. Wear a hat, scarf and warm gloves or mittens. If the skin goes numb, pale or waxy, get into the warmth and contact a doctor. Avoid rubbing cold skin hard. Plan the trip so you can get indoors, and tell someone where you are if you will be far away.
Caring for winter clothes
Winter clothes worn in dry cold rarely get dirty, but may have collected moisture from sweat. Air them when you come in. Viscose from bamboo is washed at 30 to 40 degrees, inside out and without fabric softener. Let it dry flat or on a hanger and do not put it directly on a radiator. Dry it completely before putting it away. With good care the layers are ready for the next cold day.
Frequently asked questions
How many layers do I need below minus ten
Often three or more: an undershirt, a warm middle layer and a close outer layer. Cover all bare skin.
Are tennis socks enough for frost
No, they are too short and too thin. Use them as the innermost layer under a tall, warm sock.
When should I see a doctor
If the skin goes numb, pale or waxy, or you cannot get warm. Get into the warmth and contact a doctor.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
