Dressing for night frost in May
Short answer: Even in May there can be night frost when the sky is clear and the air is dry. Days may be mild, but mornings and evenings are cold. Dress in layers you can remove during the day, and do not forget warm socks early and late.
Why frost can still come in May
In May the days are long and the sun is strong, but at night the temperature can still drop below freezing. This usually happens when the sky is cloudless and the wind is light. Heat then radiates from the ground out into space, and the air close to the ground becomes very cold. Gardeners know the problem well, because night frost can damage new shoots and blossom. For the rest of us, it means a morning can begin with frost on the grass and end with an afternoon of 15 or 18 degrees.
Layers from morning to afternoon
The big difference between morning and afternoon makes layering important. Start the day with a thin base layer, a warm mid layer and a light jacket. Once the sun has warmed the air, the mid layer can go in your bag. A hoodie is a practical mid layer, because it is easy to take off and put on, and the hood adds warmth around your head early in the morning. See bamboo hoodie for men. In the evening, as the temperature falls again, you simply put it back on.
Cold feet in the morning
On the morning after a night frost the ground is cold, and the grass may be wet from melted frost. Feet get cold quickly, especially in light spring shoes. Choose socks that suit your shoes and are warm enough for a chilly start to the day. See bamboo socks for men. If you need several types for different shoes and temperatures, you can find an overview under all bamboo socks for men. Keep a slightly warmer pair aside for the coldest mornings.
The garden in the early morning
Many people are out early in May to cover plants or check the garden after a frosty night. For this, clothing that is warm but easy to move in is welcome. Work gloves keep your hands both warm and clean. Knees and legs get cold when you kneel on cold soil, so a pair of trousers in a sturdy fabric or a kneeling pad is a good idea. Once the sun is up, it is time to remove a layer so you do not start to sweat while you work.
Evenings outdoors in May
The light evenings in May tempt you to sit outside, but once the sun sets the temperature drops quickly. A clear evening can feel much colder than the day. Keep an extra jumper and a pair of warm socks ready if you plan to sit outdoors. A blanket over your legs also makes a big difference. Remember that the body cools faster when you sit still than when you walk, so dress more warmly for an evening in the garden than for a stroll around the neighbourhood.
Caring for spring clothes
The shift from winter to spring is a good time to go through your clothes. Winter clothing that is going into storage should be washed first, so stains and sweat do not set in while it is packed away. Spring clothes can be aired and checked for holes or loose seams. Wash according to the care label and use a mild detergent for viscose. Store clothes somewhere dry and dark, ideally in fabric bags or boxes that allow air to circulate.
Frequently asked questions
How late in spring can night frost occur
In northern Europe, night frost can occur well into May and, in rare cases, early June.
Why is it coldest just around sunrise
The ground has been giving off heat all night, and the sun has not yet started to warm the air.
Should I put my winter clothes away in May
Keep a warm mid layer and warm socks within reach until the nights are reliably mild.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
