Dressing for strong sun and cold air in spring

Short answer: Spring sunshine can feel warm on your face while the air is still cold. Dress so you can enjoy the sun without getting cold in the shade or the wind. A close-fitting base layer, a soft mid layer and sun protection are the key.

Warm sun and cold air

In March and April the sun is higher in the sky than in winter, and its rays can feel noticeably warm on your skin. The air, however, is still cold, because the sea and the ground have not yet warmed up. That creates a typical spring feeling of sweating in the sun and shivering in the shade. When a cloud passes over or the wind picks up, the temperature you feel drops at once. That is why spring days call for clothing that can be adjusted quickly and easily throughout the day.

A close-fitting base layer

A base layer that sits close to the body holds in warmth without adding bulk. A bodysuit is practical as a base layer, because it does not ride up when you bend down or stretch your arms, so no cold strip appears at your lower back. See bamboo bodysuit. Choose a soft fabric that absorbs moisture, so you do not feel clammy when you sit in the sun and sweat a little. On top of the base layer you can add one or two layers as needed.

A soft mid layer for changing weather

The mid layer should be easy to take off when the sun warms you and easy to put back on when you step into the shade. Sweatwear is well suited, because it is soft, loose and easy to combine with a light jacket. See bamboo sweatwear. On a spring day in the park, you can sit in your sweatshirt in the sun and pull on your jacket when the wind picks up. Light colours are pleasant in the sun, while dark colours absorb more heat, which can be welcome on colder days.

Protect your skin from the spring sun

After a long winter, your skin is not used to the sun, and spring sunshine can be stronger than you might expect. Use sun cream on your face and hands if you will be outdoors for a long time. A cap or hat shades your eyes, and sunglasses protect against the bright light, especially if there is still snow on the ground. Your lips can dry out from the mix of sun and cold wind, so a lip balm is handy. If you have questions about skin and sun, talk to your doctor.

Feet on cold ground

Even when the air feels mild in the sun, the ground is often cold in spring. If you sit on a bench or on the grass, the cold creeps up through your shoes and trousers. Choose socks that keep you warm and closed shoes until the ground is dry and warm. A blanket or cushion to sit on makes a big difference. If the grass is wet with dew in the morning, save the canvas shoes for the afternoon, when the sun has had time to dry things out.

The spring wardrobe change

Spring is the time when winter clothes are gradually put away and lighter clothes come out. Many people take the opportunity to add a few new pieces. If you would like to see what is currently reduced, have a look at the sale. Before your winter clothes are packed away, they should be washed according to the care label, so sweat and stains do not set in. Store them somewhere dry and dark, and keep a warm mid layer to hand for cool evenings.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the sun feel warm when the air is cold

The sun's rays warm your skin directly, while the air stays cold because the ground and sea have not yet warmed up.

Should I use sun cream in spring

Yes, if you will be outside for a long time. Your skin is not used to the sun after winter.

When can I put my winter clothes away

When the nights are reliably mild. Keep a warm mid layer to hand until then.

You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.