What evaporation does on skin, why you freeze in wet fabric
Short answer: Evaporation is when water turns to vapour and takes heat from the skin, which is why you feel cold in wet fabric. Change into dry clothes after sweat or rain, and choose pieces you can air, so moisture does not stay against the body.
What evaporation is
Evaporation is the process in which water turns into vapour. When this happens on the skin, it needs heat, and the water takes that heat from your body. That is why wet skin feels cold even when the air is not especially cold. It is the same effect that makes you shiver when you step out of the water.
How evaporation affects your clothes
When sweat or rain is in your clothes, the moisture begins to evaporate from the fabric and draws heat from the skin beneath. Thick, wet fabric turns cold and takes time to dry. That is why you can feel cold in a damp top even though you were warm while moving.
Tops closest to the skin
The layer closest to the skin matters most, because that is where the moisture forms. Look at bamboo tops for women if you want a light layer that is easy to change after you have sweated. The fabric matters, but the most important thing is to change when it has become damp.
Sweat, rain and swimming give the same effect
Whether the moisture comes from sweat, rain or a dip in the water, the mechanism is the same. The water evaporates and takes heat with it, so the body cools. After a run or a swim it is therefore wise to change quickly, especially in wind, because wind makes moisture evaporate faster.
Layer on layer gives more control
Use several thin layers instead of one thick one, so you can take something off when you warm up and put something on when you stand still. The innermost layer should be easy to change. If you have a dry spare layer in your bag, you can quickly get warm again after a break.
How to air and dry your clothes
Hang your clothes up after wearing them so the moisture can evaporate before you put them in the wardrobe. Avoid stuffing wet clothes into a bag, because they stay damp for a long time. Follow the care label and dry the pieces on a rail with air around them, so they are ready the next day.
Watch out for wind and cold
Wind makes moisture evaporate faster, and that can quickly create a feeling of cold, especially if you stand still. Put a jacket on when you pause outdoors, and change a wet layer first. Once you know the difference, you can adapt your clothes to the weather and your activity. See also the sale for women.
Small habits that help every day
Bring an extra top when you know you will sweat, and change as soon as you are done. Do not leave wet clothes on the body longer than necessary, and wear layers you can take off. Under a dress, a bamboo slip can be an extra layer that you change without changing the whole outfit.
Frequently asked questions
Why do you feel cold when your clothes are wet?
Because the water evaporates and takes heat from the skin. The more moisture there is in the fabric, the more heat is drawn away, especially in wind.
Does it help to change clothes after sweating?
Yes, it reduces the cold feeling, because there is no longer moisture that has to evaporate from the fabric. Change as soon as possible after activity.
What can I do so moisture does not stay in the fabric?
Wear thin layers, let your clothes air after use, and hang them so air can reach all sides. Always follow the care label of your clothes.
