Dressing for dry January frost
Short answer: Dry frost is often easier to dress for than damp cold, because your clothes stay dry. The key points are to avoid sweating, to cover exposed skin against the wind and to keep your feet warm, both outdoors in the cold and at home in chilly rooms.
What dry frost means
Dry frost usually occurs when a high pressure system settles over the country. The sky is clear, the air is dry, and at night the temperature drops as heat radiates out into space. During the day the sun may shine, but it stays cold. The dry air means the cold feels less raw than on a damp day at the same temperature. On the other hand, skin can become dry and chapped, and lips and hands need extra care. Indoors the air also turns dry when the radiators are running at full power.
Avoid sweating
In frosty weather, sweat is your biggest enemy. If you dress too warmly and walk fast, you start to sweat, and when you then stand still, the damp layer quickly turns cold. It is better to start out slightly cool and let your body warm up as you go. Open your jacket a little if you begin to feel warm. Layering makes it easy to adjust. A soft base layer, a warm mid layer and a windproof jacket let you adapt to how active you are at any given moment.
Feet in frost
Frozen ground draws heat out of your feet, especially when you stand still, for instance at a bus stop. Socks should fit well without squeezing, and shoes should leave enough room for your toes to move. Socks with a slightly higher cuff keep the ankle warm. See bamboo tennis socks for men. A thick sole or an extra insole insulates you from the cold ground. If you often have cold feet, there can be many reasons for it, so talk to your doctor if it bothers you.
Compression stockings in winter
Some people wear compression stockings in everyday life, for example on long journeys or when working on their feet. In winter they can be worn under trousers as an extra layer. See bamboo compression stockings. Compression stockings have a specific level of pressure, and it is important that they fit correctly. Talk to your doctor or a qualified professional about which type and pressure suits you before you start wearing them. You can wear an ordinary sock over them for extra warmth if your shoes have room.
Staying warm at home on cold days
When frost sets in, floors and areas near windows grow cold, and many people turn the heating up. A few soft, warm layers at home let you keep the temperature a little lower and still feel comfortable. Loungewear in a soft fabric is pleasant for long winter evenings on the sofa. See bamboo loungewear for men. Slippers or socks on a cold floor also make a noticeable difference. Dry indoor air can be eased by airing the room briefly and drying laundry indoors on a rack.
Skin, face and hands
Cold, dry air and wind dry out the skin. Cover your face with a scarf when it is windy, and wear gloves or mittens. Mittens are often warmer than gloves, because the fingers keep each other warm. A hat that covers your ears is important, since the ears have very little natural protection. A rich cream on your hands and face before going out can feel soothing. If you have skin problems that do not clear up, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is it dangerous to sweat in frosty weather
Not in itself, but damp clothing cools quickly when you stop moving. That is why it is best to avoid getting too warm.
Why are mittens warmer than gloves
In mittens the fingers sit together and warm each other. In gloves each finger is on its own and loses more heat.
Should I wear thick socks in frost
Only if your shoes have room for them. A sock that fits is better than a thick one that squeezes the foot.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
