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Venturing Crew 65
Collierville • Tennessee

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FASHION TIPS

Choose the right material for the weather conditions

1. COTTON & SILK: Great for comfort in warm weather, but NOT for cold weather. Cold and wet cotton can be deadly.

2. WOOL & POLYPROPYLENE: Retain their insulating abilities even when wet. Wool is heavy when wet and slow to dry. Synthetics wring out easily.

3. DOWN: Very effective insulator when dry, but useless when wet.

4. WATER & WIND PROOF: Allow some water vapor (perspiration) to pass through, but not liquid water.

5. VAPER-BARRIER: Worn close to the skin to prevent perspiration. Used only during inactive times.

Fundamentals of Backpacking

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

INNER LAYER: The purpose of this layer is for comfort and insulation. This layer is normally thin, long underwear, preferably made of polypropylene or polyester. In extreme cold weather, a vapor barrier can be added on top of the long underwear. Adjustable ventilation is extremely important for vapor barriers. Lightweight poly sock liners round out this layer.

MIDDLE LAYER(S): While the inner layer keeps the skin comfortable, the middle layer provides the bulk insulation needed to protect against the cold. You may have to adjust this layer several times during your trip. Pile pants and jacket together offer good insulation with about 3 pounds weight. Synthetic-filled vests or jackets or wool sweaters can be an effective middle layer. Add a hat or knitted cap and wool mitts (pack an extra pair of gloves). Wear 1 or 2 pair of wool outer socks.

OUTER LAYER: This layer is extremely important. The outer shell of your layering blocks wind, sheds rain, and repels snow. Adequate ventilation (like zippered openings) must be provided so that plenty of air can reach the middle layer when needed. Include weatherproof mitten shells. Waterproof your weather-appropriate boots. Don't forget your pack cover (maybe a combination poncho and pack cover).

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