Ascension Day and a morning walk in cold air

Short answer: On Ascension Day a morning walk in cold air can feel fresh, but only if you are dressed properly. Start with a soft layer next to the skin, put a warm sweat layer over it, and remember that feet and hands cool down faster than the rest of the body.

Why the morning air feels cold

In the morning the air is cool and the body is still slow, even towards summer. When you stand still you feel the cold, and when you walk you warm up quickly. That makes it hard to choose, so dress in adjustable layers instead of one thick layer you cannot take off.

The layer next to the skin

Start with something soft that does not rub and fits close without pulling. It should keep you dry and warm as you walk. A thin base is better than a thick one, because it lets you wear another layer over it without getting clammy. Look for something that feels good against the skin for hours.

Sweat as a warm middle layer

A sweatshirt or hoodie is welcome on a cool morning. It holds warmth, and you can take it off if you get warm. You can see the selection among the bamboo sweat for men and women if you want something soft to walk in. Choose a fit that does not pull across the shoulders.

Men's sweat for the walk

You want to move your arms freely as you walk, so choose a fit with room. A soft sweat layer for an early walk can be found among the bamboo sweat for men, and you can adjust with a layer under or over depending on the weather. Take it off if you get warm along the way.

Socks keep the feet warm

Cold feet spoil a walk, even when the rest of the body is warm. Choose soft, dense socks without coarse seams so they do not rub on a long walk. You can see what is available among the socks for men and women, and bring a spare pair in case it is wet.

Hands, neck and head

It is often hands, ears and neck that complain first. Bring a thin scarf, a hat or gloves, even if the day turns mild. They take almost no room in a pocket and can come off when you warm up. It is often the small details that make the difference between a good and a cold morning.

When the sun comes out

By late morning the temperature rises, and then it matters to be able to take a layer off. Fold it and put it in the backpack so you do not start sweating, because moisture on the skin makes you cold quickly if the wind picks up. Keep moving so the body holds its warmth without getting too hot.

Home again and washing

Hang your clothes to air and wash them following the care label, usually at a low temperature and without fabric softener, which can leave a film on the fabric. Let them dry fully before putting them away. Then they are ready for the next walk, even if the morning starts cold again.

Frequently asked questions

How many layers do I need on a cold morning?

Two to three layers are often enough: a soft layer next to the skin, a sweat layer over it and perhaps something windproof that you already own. Then you can take a layer off when the sun comes out.

Why do my feet get so cold?

Feet are far from the centre of the body and cool down quickly, especially on cold ground. Soft, dense socks help, and a spare pair in the bag is good in case it is wet.

Should I take clothes off when I get warm?

Yes, take a layer off before you start sweating, because moisture on the skin makes you cold when you pause. Fold the layer and put it in the bag in case the wind picks up.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.