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Consider layering-Efficient and economicalMar 05 '01 (Updated Aug 31 '01) Write an essay on this topic.The Bottom Line Pay attention to the technology that each piece of clothing offers. Remember, when purchasing any piece of clothing, look at the activity that you will be using it for. When buying snow clothing and apparel, make sure you're looking at the right store. Of course you can always go to your local Wal-mart or K-mart chains, but if you want something with endurance, comfort, and warmth, I suggest that you look elsewhere. REI and other specific outdoor clothing chains would be your best bet. Material First, I would not recommend buying any piece of clothing that uses cotton as its primary source of insulation. Cotton is not a good insulator compared to the latest technology in the clothing industry. Cotton is also useless when wet or windy, because it neither repels moisture nor breaths to circulate air. Layering If you live in an environment where precipitation and wind is a major factor, I highly suggest layering. Laying is the most efficient and economical way of trailing through the bitter winter months. It allows you to change your clothing layers while the seasons change. One of the most important outdoor clothing pieces is the shell. For those who are not familiar with the terminology, a shell is the outer most laying of clothing. When browsing for a shell, you should look for something that is water resistant, breathable, and flexible. Several types of technological fabrics are usually incorporated into shells. You often hear of terms such as Gore-Tex or Hyvent. What do these terms mean to you and how do they work? Gore-Tex, which comes in 1, 2, or 3-Ply, is a system of fabric that is both waterproof and breathable, allowing perspiration to pass through its membranes while preventing water drops from entering. It is also very durable and has been tested in the most extreme conditions. It also doesn't lose its effectiveness over wear and tear. Hyvent, which is North Faces own technology, offers the same purpose as Gore-Tex, preventing the elements from entering while allowing circulation and breath ability. It works just as well, and also is available in different plys. Another consideration when buying a shell is its flexibility. Because your shell will be the outer most layer of clothing, you want something that you can easily move and navigate in. Most modern technological advancements allow flexibility in the type of fabric that is employed. You should also bear in mind that a shell doesn't insulate, so if you're expecting to go out in chilly weather, don't expect a shell to keep you warm. A shell merely keeps the elements such as precipitation and wind from entering. The mid-layers are the pieces of clothing that will insulate you from the bitterness of winter. When reflecting on the various types of mid-layers, you should buy something that keeps you warm for the weather that you will be living in. There are various types of mid-layer clothing around, and making the choice between a simple fleece to down should be based on what type of conditions you will be expecting. Fleece has several types of unique properties. Compared to cotton or wool, fleece dries quicker and provides greater warmth at less weight and is extremely breathable. Fleece also comes in various weights--the greater the weight, the greater the insulation. There is also down, which is basically goose feathers. Down offers the lightest, warmest, and most compressible insulation available. It provides the maximum warmth at the lowest weight, and often is used in the coldest conditions. When purchasing down, you must be aware of the brand of clothing that you purchase. For example, down jackets rarely are wind resistant or waterproof, so you should wear a shell. North Face and Marmot offers down jackets that are compatible as zip-ins for their shells. You should also consider down jackets that have partitions, so down feathers don't sink to the bottom of the jacket. Most brands allow you to zip these mid-layers into the shell, which makes a great convenience. However, always keep in mind that both the shell and the mid-layers function independently of each other and should be used together to utilize maximum warmth and comfort. Final word These two layers are the most important when considering outdoor clothing that will block the elements while providing comfort and endurance. Remember, when purchasing clothing, you should also look at the reputation of the brands that you're considering. Often, when purchasing brands such as North Face or Marmot, lifetime warrantees are offered. These provide you the assurance that the piece of clothing has been tested and used in conditions that are probably more severe than the ones that you're going to encounter. I personally stand by both brands.  |
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