What to wear at minus thirteen degrees
Short answer: At minus thirteen degrees it is cold feet and stiff fingers that drive you indoors. An undershirt as the first layer, a hoodie under the jacket and footies at home keep the body warm.
Deep frost and short trips
Minus thirteen degrees is a cold that bites. This is no time for long walks without the right clothes. Many people keep trips short and go well prepared, and that is a sensible approach. The cold takes the warmth from face, hands and feet, and a small mistake in what you wear is felt quickly. The most important things are three layers, wind protection and dry socks.
The undershirt as the first layer
A thin undershirt made of viscose from bamboo is a comfortable first layer that sits close without squeezing. See bamboo undershirt for women. It keeps the top clear of the skin and can give an extra layer of warmth in the cold. Choose a length that covers the lower back, so that you do not get a draught when you bend. Make sure it is dry when you put it on, and change if you have sweated.
The hoodie as a warm middle layer
On top of the undershirt goes a hoodie, which traps air and gives a soft, warm layer. See bamboo hoodies for women. The hood can be pulled up under a jacket so that the neck is protected. Choose a fit that is not so thick that it bunches up under the jacket sleeves. On top of the hoodie you need a windproof outer layer, because the wind takes the warmth away quickly.
Footies at home and under thicker socks
Footies are very low socks that do not cover the ankle. See bamboo footies for women. At minus thirteen degrees outdoors they are not suitable alone, but they can be used at home in slippers or as an innermost layer under a thick sock. Under a wool sock they protect the skin from scratchy fibres. Make sure they do not slip down into the heel, and change if they get damp.
Hands, head and feet
At this temperature you need a hat, mittens and a scarf. Cover your ears and neck and consider a neck tube that can be pulled up over nose and mouth. Choose boots with room for thick socks, without the shoe becoming too tight. Have warm socks to put on when you get home. Go indoors if you can no longer feel your fingers or toes.
Caring for frost clothes
Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees and inside out. Avoid fabric softener and the tumble dryer on high heat. Let the clothes dry flat or on a hanger, and do not hang wet clothes on a hot radiator. Air the outer layer so that the moisture can evaporate, and store the clothes dry.
Frequently asked questions
How many layers do I need at minus thirteen degrees
Three layers work for many: an undershirt, a hoodie and a windproof outer layer. Adjust to your activity and how long you are out.
Can I wear footies in frost
Not alone outdoors. At home or as an innermost layer under thicker socks they can be used.
When should I go indoors
Go indoors if you can no longer feel your fingers or toes, or if you shiver uncontrollably. If you are unsure, talk to your doctor.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
