What to wear at minus four degrees
Short answer: At minus four degrees the cold is manageable, but it creeps in through the floor, draughts and wet socks. A few thin layers and dry feet make the biggest difference, especially if you sit still for much of the day.
Cold that comes from below
Many people think of cold as something that hits the face and hands, but at minus four degrees it is often the floor and the feet that decide how the day feels. If you sit at a desk or stand in a workshop with a concrete floor, the cold pulls up through your shoes. Socks and underwear therefore matter more than an extra jumper. When the feet are warm, the rest of the body feels more comfortable too, even if the room is cool.
Layers for a day spent sitting
When you sit still, the body makes little heat, and a layer that was fine on the bicycle can feel too thin after an hour at the computer. Bring a thin cardigan that you can put on and take off. Underwear should sit close and soft without squeezing. See bamboo underpants for men. Viscose from bamboo feels smooth against the skin, which is pleasant when you sit in the same trousers for eight hours.
Socks in everyday shoes
Office shoes and leather boots are rarely designed for frost, so they need help from the socks. Choose a pair that is a little thicker under the foot but still fits in the shoe without pressure. See all bamboo socks for men. If your shoes get wet in slush, change into dry socks as soon as you are inside. Damp socks cool down quickly and can cause rubbing that you do not want to walk around with all day.
A jacket and scarf that come off
At minus four degrees you do not need the thickest winter jacket, but you do need something that stops the wind. A scarf is a cheap way to keep the neck warm, and it can be taken off when you come in. Choose a jacket long enough to cover your back when you sit on a bicycle. A jacket that is too warm for the office often ends up on a chair, and then it is not with you when you need to go home.
Know your own label
If you would like to see what has been gathered under our own name, have a look at Copenhagen Bamboo. Choose based on where you spend most of your time and where you feel the cold most. If it is the feet, start with socks. If it is the waist, start with a thin innermost layer. One right choice often does more than three wrong ones.
Care of everyday clothes
Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees and let it dry flat or on a hanger. Avoid fabric softener, as it can make the fabric less breathable. Socks and underpants wear most when they are washed with heavy items that have zips, so use a gentle programme. Let your shoes dry completely between wears so that moisture does not stay in.
Frequently asked questions
Why am I cold even though I wear a lot
It may be because you sit still, the clothes are damp or the feet are cold. Check those three things before you add more clothing.
Do I need thick socks at minus four degrees
Not necessarily. Thick socks only work if the shoe has room for them. If the shoe is too tight, thin socks can be warmer.
How do I avoid sweating on the way to the train
Start with slightly too little clothing and take layers off when you warm up. That way you arrive dry and do not freeze afterwards.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
