The balcony on a cool summer evening
Short answer: A summer evening can start warm and end cool, especially on a windy balcony. A light hoodie, long trousers and a layer you can carry back inside make it possible to stay out after the sun has gone down.
Why it gets cold so quickly
When the sun sets, the direct warmth disappears, and the ground and buildings slowly give off the heat they have stored. On a balcony high up you are also more exposed to wind than at ground level. Wind strips away the thin layer of warm air that sits close to the skin, which is why 16 degrees with a breeze feels much colder than 16 degrees in still air. That change can happen within half an hour, often just as the conversation gets going.
The hoodie as an evening layer
A hoodie is practical because it pulls on over a T-shirt without any fuss, and the hood shelters the back of the neck when the wind picks up. Choose one that is not too thick, so you do not get sweaty while you sit in the last of the sun. See bamboo hoodie for men, which is light enough for summer evenings and soft against the skin.
The legs get cold first
If you sit on a balcony in shorts, you will feel the cold in your legs before your upper body. A pair of long, loose trousers is therefore often the first thing to put on. Night pants in a light fibre work well, because they can be worn outside in the evening and in bed afterwards. See night pants for men if you want a pair that works in both places.
Making the balcony warmer
A windbreak screen or plants along the railing can take some of the wind. Cushions on the chairs insulate against cold metal or wooden surfaces. A blanket over your legs is another simple solution. Avoid open flames and patio heaters close to textiles, and always read the safety rules for your building before putting anything up on a shared balcony.
From balcony to bed
Many people sleep badly on summer nights because the bedroom is too warm. If you have been sitting out in the cool evening air, your body has already cooled a little, and that can make it easier to fall asleep. Change into light sleepwear and open the bedroom window before you go to bed. See sleepwear for light sets that suit mild nights and do not trap heat.
Clothes that have been outside
Clothes that have been out in the evening can be slightly damp from dew. Hang them up to dry before putting them back in the wardrobe, or they may start to smell. Cushions and blankets should come inside at night so they do not soak up moisture. If they have got wet, let them dry completely in a well ventilated room before you store them.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I feel colder on the balcony than in the garden
A balcony high up is more exposed to wind, and wind takes warmth away from the skin. Shelter makes a big difference.
What should I put on first when it gets cool
Long trousers, as the legs usually feel the cold first. Then a light layer for the upper body.
Can I sleep in the clothes I wore outside
It is better to change into clean sleepwear. Clothes from the evening may be slightly damp from dew and sweat.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
