staying warm

Question
We are taking another ski vacation in January to Copper Mt., CO.   This year I had to buy a new jacket & pants.  The sales person (in florida) convinced me to buy a Gortex jacket & pants.  They are both shells.  She said I will be warm enough with just a lightweight and midweight underneath and maybe add fleece on top (I am allergic to wool).  I can't believe anything so light could keep me warm.  I'm looking at my old poofy jacket and having second thoughts.  I know the technology has changed and supposedly we can be warmer with less weight, but I am chicken.  Poofy sounds warmer to me.  What have you found to be true?  Thanks

Answer
hi and thanks for the question.

Its true about the technology. But i think more to the point it is about what you like / dont like. Are you generally a person who feels the cold? Be open to the idea that it could just actually work.

Research has shown that layers are better for retaining heat. General rule of thumb for dressing:
* natural fibres [silk/wool/cotton] next to your skin - or thermal underwear. These will wick away moisture from your skin.
* lightweight - but warm second layer. If you have good quality thermals this layer can be skipped - otherwise your looking for clothes that allow you movement so stretchy is better. I spend a little extra on thermals so i dont have to wear lots of layers as that can become a hinderance throughout the day.
* removable layer - like a sweater is last. This is where the bulk comes from - but beware, skiing is reasonably acitve so if you over dress you will sweat ... this will become obvious while you're sitting on the chairlift of in the gondola. It is this sweating that makes you cold - not the lack of clothing.

Gortex has been one of the leading fabrics used in ski/outdoor clothing since the 80's. Its about having gear that is wind resistant, double stitched seams, good fitting. If it is too big you will trap pockets of cooler air under there - cooling you.

Also - a fleece top isnt made of wool - they are generally synthetic fibres with exceptional warmth retaining properties [but check the label].

Another important consideration is your feet. Make sure your socks have natural fibres to wick away moisture and your boots dont 'leak'. Another consideration is your general circualtion - if it is poor or you are dehydrated you will not be able to keep your extrmities warm anyway - circulation is what provdes the warmth in the first place. Avoid restrictive or tight clothing especially in body joins [grion, underarms, elbows, behind knees, ankles]. And then of course its your head and hands to keep warm as well.  As you tire you will find it harder to stay warm - so be kind to yourself and go in a little earlier if you need to - there is always tomorrow to enjoy.

Iv been skiing in shells for years and love the freedom of movement they allow. But it can take a little practice to figure out how to dress - so persist and you will have a very comfortable day out there.

Check the weather report for the days predictions - especially for wind. If the wind is picking up - you may need another thin layer to keep it out. All said and done though - we cannot predict the weather you will be skiing in - a sunny day or snowing. And on the coldest days of winter - it wont matter what you're wearing - you will still have cold spots.

Hope there is something here to help - if you ahve any other queries, feel free to ask

lisa