Clothes for cold days

Short answer: Three layers. A thin one closest to the skin that moves moisture, an insulating one in the middle and a windproof one outside. The inner layer matters most for whether you feel cold, because a damp layer against the skin cools faster than the cold itself.

The inner layer must move moisture

Even on cold days the body sweats when you walk fast, cycle or carry bags. If the inner layer gets damp, it cools the skin faster than the cold does. So the layer against your body needs to absorb moisture and pass it on. Choose a thin layer in bamboo viscose, see men's bamboo undershirts.

You notice it when you stop

While you move, the body stays warm even if the inner layer is a little damp. It is when you stop at a bus stop or sit down that the cold arrives. The damp fabric then cools the skin, and you start to feel cold. A dry inner layer makes that change much more comfortable.

Cotton is a poor inner layer

Cotton absorbs moisture well but releases it slowly. A cotton inner layer gets wet quickly and stays that way. When you stand still, it cools the skin. For a quiet day indoors cotton is fine, but for cold days on the move outside, a layer that passes moisture on is the better choice.

The middle layer insulates

The middle layer has to hold air, because air is what keeps you warm. Sweat fabric or wool does this well, thanks to lots of small air pockets. It should leave a little room, but not be so loose that cold air gets in from below. See bamboo sweat for men and women.

Take the middle layer off indoors

The middle layer is the one you adjust to the temperature. When you walk into a warm shop or a train, take it off so you do not start sweating. When you go back out, put it on before you get cold. That keeps the inner layer from getting wet with sweat along the way.

The outer layer keeps the wind out

Wind draws heat away faster than the temperature alone suggests. A windy day feels much colder than a still day at the same temperature. A windproof outer layer is therefore essential, however good the layers underneath are. Browse all men's clothing for what goes underneath.

Three layers are enough

When it is really cold, it is tempting to add more. But more than three layers restricts movement without adding warmth, because the layers squeeze the air out of each other. It is better to choose a thicker middle layer than to add another one. You keep your arms free and stay warm.

If you are cold, start at the inside

If you feel cold despite wearing a lot, the inner layer is usually damp. Adding more on top will not help. Change to a dry inner layer when you get the chance instead. It does more for your warmth than an extra sweater over everything.

Frequently asked questions

Why do you feel cold when wearing lots of clothes

Usually because the inner layer is damp. Change to a dry layer first, then decide whether you need more on the outside.

Is cotton good as a winter base layer

No. Cotton holds moisture and cools the skin when you stand still. A thin layer that moves moisture keeps you drier and therefore warmer.

How many layers are enough

Three. More layers restrict movement without adding warmth, so choose a thicker middle layer if it is very cold.