Here in the upper Midwest, we’ve had a slight reprieve from the bitter winters we are known to experience. However, that will soon changes. Perhaps more than ever, it’s a good time to remind you about dressing properly for winter conditions.
Winter poses two risks to a healthy lifestyle: you either slow or stop exercising or you run the risk of cold-related injuries. Proper clothing is essential in the winter. Frostbite and hypothermia are real risks we face on the trails. Jeans and a sweatshirt offer little protection.
Technology has brought us several options for proper dress. Manufacturers such as the offer performance clothing that provides optimal protection against the elements. Materials such as Gore-Tex are breathable, yet keep out moisture. This is key to safe winter hiking. Moisture mixed cold temperatures is a deadly recipe. The advantage of purchasing performance clothing is having items designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind.
Take your winter coat, for example. Conventional wisdom would say the thicker the better. However, if you’re active outdoors, that heavy coat soon becomes a burden. If you are participating in winter sports such as cross-country skiing, a heavy jacket restricts movement and hampers your workout.
Performance clothing recognizes the challenges that winter recreation presents. Technology bridges the gap between safety and participating in outdoor activities. Clothing with added features such as cloth-lined pockets for glasses or netting under arms demonstrates a product created for the outdoor enthusiast’s needs.
Shoes are another item where skimping is a bad plan. Winter trail hiking presents new challenges to the hiker. Slick, icy trails are a real hazard. Feet are especially prone to frostbite. Again, compromise is necessary. A heavy shoe may protect, but will make hiking difficult. The capability of always staying dry is another high priority. Again, performance clothing has the answer.
Wool or synthetic materials for socks provide comfort and protection. Winter hiking boots with insulation and Gore-Tex lining protect against frostbite. Sturdy construction gives that extra bit of ankle protection when encountering slick surfaces. Performance clothing may cost more, but the extras make a difference. Plan for the extra risks that winter recreation presents by dressing for the occasion.
Everything has its day and today it is the cranberry. ! Conveniently scheduled near Thanksgiving, today is the day to indulge your cranberry cravings.
Today’s weekly recipe takes on a seasonal flair. Though they’re available year round, I never cook squash until the fall. It’s too bad because I’m missing out on a lot of fun recipes with high nutritional value. My recent discoveries have been using spaghetti squash. Cooking Light’s is a winner.
