Today I want to talk about a subject I never thought I would have a conversation about or write an article on, but since it has survival in the title I feel better about it (haha).
How you dress can greatly impact you in a survival situation. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Cotton Kills
This is often mentioned in forums. What it means is that cotton wicks your body’s heat away from you when it’s wet. Wool on the other hand will retain your body’s heat even while wet. If you live where it gets cold, having some good wool winter gear is a good idea. Since cotton wicks away your body’s heat, it may be preferable in hot climates.
Dress in Layers
This again is geared more for cold climates. The reason one dresses in layers when out in cold temperatures is to make sure you’re warm enough and to give you the option of removing layers if you begin to sweat. For example, here in Minnesota the temps can get to -20, not including wind-chill. If I have to go out to shovel, I’ll normally wear a white t-shirt, thin long sleeve shirt, a sweatshirt and my winter coat, along with long underwear and jeans, wool socks and good winter boots. I’ll also wear a hat, the hood of the coat and a scarf. Even though I’m not in a survival situation, shoveling Minnesota snow can be a workout. If I start to sweat, I’ll take off the sweat shirt and put the jacket back on and maybe lower the hood. I think you get the idea. If you are in a survival situation in cold weather and are sweating, you are in danger and are increasing the odds of hypothermia. Take off a layer or two and give yourself a rest.
Put Some Clothes On!
When you’re out in direct sun, especially in hot climates, it is advisable to have all of your skin covered, especially your head. The sun will draw the moisture out of uncovered skin. You’ll also be susceptible to sunburn, which can be detrimental in a survival situation.
Do you have any other survival clothing related tips to add?
