What to wear at twelve degrees
Short answer: At twelve degrees gardening or a long outing is a nice mix of fresh air and cold that creeps in. A hoodie and good socks keep you able to work without freezing or sweating.
Gardening in cool air
Twelve degrees is a pleasant temperature for working outdoors, because you warm up from moving. But when you look for weeds, dig or stand still to water, the cold can sneak in. Many people start with a jacket and take it off after ten minutes, only to freeze again when they take a break. It is about having a layer that can be adjusted, and something dry to change into.
The hoodie as a working layer
The hoodie is a soft, practical middle layer that you can wear under a light jacket. See bamboo hoodie for men. You can take it off if you get warm and pull it on again when you take a break. Choose a model where the sleeves can be pushed up, so that they do not end up in the soil. The hood can protect the neck from a cool breeze when you stand bent over the beds.
Socks and feet in the garden
The feet quickly get cold and wet in a garden, especially if the soil is damp or the grass is covered in dew. See bamboo socks for men. Choose socks that tolerate a little moisture and fit your wellies or work shoes. Bring a spare pair so that you can change if your feet get wet. Dry feet make the work far more pleasant.
Compression stockings for long standing work
Some people who stand or walk a lot in the garden or at work use compression stockings, because they give light pressure on the legs. See bamboo compression stockings. They are not a treatment and cannot replace medical help. If you have swollen legs or other problems, talk to your doctor before choosing anything. Remember to take breaks and sit down, so that you do not stand for too long at a time.
Small details that make the work easier
Use gloves that tolerate moisture and that you can work in without losing feeling in your fingers. A kneeling pad or a small stool makes it easier to work close to the ground. Keep a flask with a hot drink nearby, and take short breaks before you get cold. Change into clean clothes when you finish, so that you do not sit in damp gardening clothes for the rest of the day.
Caring for gardening clothes
Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees and inside out. Rinse off mud before the clothes go into the washing machine, so that the stains do not set. Avoid fabric softener, and let the clothes dry flat or on a hanger. Wash compression stockings and socks according to the label and dry them without direct heat so that they keep their shape.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear for gardening at twelve degrees
A thin innermost layer, a hoodie and a light jacket that can come off. Bring wellies and socks that tolerate moisture.
Why do I freeze when I take a break
The sweat in your clothes cools you down when you stand still. Put on a jacket and change into dry clothes as soon as you finish.
Can I choose compression stockings myself
Talk to your doctor if you are considering them for health reasons. They are not a treatment.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
