How to stay warm

Staying warm during your outside winter activities is a must. Its hard to enjoy your self if you are cold and uncomfortable. With today’s clothing advancements it is possible to stay warm and dry in just about any weather conditions. The clothes are comfortable, not bulky and will keep you warm for hours.

Its all about the layering. On the first layer wear the moisture wicking fabric that are relatively new to the market. Under Armor, Work and Sport, Lands End and many others offer several choices. With in those first layer types there are different weights available depending on your activity level and the outside temperature.

The next layer is polar fleece. I will always wear the polar fleece top but I only add polar fleece bottom layer if the temperature is below 10. I find I get to warm and its not really necessary unless its extremely cold and windy.

The outside layer is the key. Gortex type fabrics that are water and wind proof work great. Many brands offer additional insulation in addition to the wind and water proofing. Here is when practice make perfect and if you don’t have a lot of insulation in your outerwear, adding the additional layer of fleece works just as well. One of the newest suits designed for ice fishing is made with a fabric that actually floats.

One inexpensive alternative to consider is the good old fashion wool pants. Although I have never worn them, I have friends who wear them for ice fishing on a regular basis and swear by them. These can often be found at the Army Navy or Fleet Farm type stores. They definitely have a look of their own and pair well with a Stormy Kromer Hat.

Quality gloves and boots make a big difference. I find that men’s boot offer superior quality over the women’s brands. Not exactly sure why the manufacturers build the men’s boots to be warmer but I find that theory holds true with most cold weather clothing. One the best tips and tricks is the hand and foot warmers. For a dollar or less you can get the disposable small thin pad foot warmers that stick to the outside bottom of your socks. Once inside your boot it heats up and create a warming and that will keep your feet toasty for hours. They make the same thing for hands and they can be placed right inside your gloves. I stock up and always carry spares with me. Other little treasures I have found is the Marino wool socks. Smart Wool brand was the leader but in the last year several less expensive brands have emerged and appear to be of similar quality.

I usually bring an extra pair of gloves so if one gets wet my day isn’t ruined. Neck gators that can be pulled up over you face are also a good think to have with you. I also apply Aquaphor to my hands and face and find its adds another barrier of protection from the elements. Follow these tips and you will be able to enjoy the outdoors for hours at a time.