How to stay dry and warm while on the move during winter ops
When the mercury dips, tactical operations don’t hit pause. Staying dry is your ticket to maintaining core warmth and staying agile in the field. An essential aspect of this is moisture management in your cold-weather gear. Proper moisture management not only keeps you comfortable but also prevents hypothermia and enhances your overall operational efficiency. Layer smart, stay dry, and keep the mission in sight even when the cold tries to bite.
UNDERSTANDING LAYERING
Layering is the cornerstone of moisture management. A well-thought-out layering system will wick away moisture, retain heat, and allow for ventilation. The layers typically include a base layer to wick moisture, an insulation layer to retain heat, and an outer layer to shield against wind and water.
MATERIALS MATTER
Your gear’s effectiveness largely depends on the materials. Merino wool and synthetic fabrics are excellent for the base layer as they wick moisture away from the skin. For insulation, fleece or synthetic fill are good choices, while the outer layer should feature water and wind-resistant materials like Gore-Tex.
BREATHABILITY & VENTILATION
Breathability in your outer layers is crucial to allow moisture vapor to escape. Additionally, gear with ventilation features such as zippers or vents will enable you to regulate your body temperature effectively.
UF PRO’S ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LAYERING
We offer an extensive guide on clothing layers, diving deeper into the science of material technology and body temperature regulation. Discover the best practices and gear recommendations to optimize your cold-weather operations by reading their ultimate guide.
