Dry cold, how to layer your clothes

Short answer: Dry cold is frost without moisture in the air, and you dress for it best with several thin layers rather than one thick one. Start with a soft long sleeve top closest to the body and add layers as needed. That way you can take something off when you come indoors.

What dry cold does to your day

Dry cold feels sharp, but the air is often clear and it is perfectly good for walks. The hard part is keeping an even temperature when you move between outdoors and indoors. That is why layers work better than thick clothes, because you can adjust along the way without freezing or sweating.

The first layer, close to the body

The innermost layer should feel soft and lie close without pulling. A long sleeve top in bamboo viscose is a good starting point, because the fabric is smooth against the skin. Look at our long sleeve models and choose a fit that does not bunch up under the next layer.

The middle layer brings warmth

The middle layer is what holds the warmth. It can be a knit, a sweatshirt or a fleece, depending on what you already own. Take care that it is not too thick, or there is no room for an outer layer. Choose something you can take off easily and hang over your arm.

Outerwear against the wind

Wind makes dry cold more unpleasant, so the outer layer should be dense enough to stop it. A long coat or a windproof top is enough if the layers underneath are right. Remember that the body loses heat through openings, so close the neck and sleeves properly.

Feet and socks in the cold

Cold feet can spoil an otherwise lovely walk. Choose socks that fit well without squeezing, since tight socks can reduce circulation. You can see socks for women and bring an extra pair if you will be outdoors for long. Switch to dry socks if yours get damp.

Underwear and the base of the layers

The bottom layer is often forgotten, but it matters when it is cold. Soft underwear can add extra comfort on the coldest days. Look at bamboo knickers as part of the innermost layer, which lies close and takes up no room under your clothes.

Avoid sweating in your layers

If you sweat while walking, you quickly get cold when you stop. Take a layer off before you get warm and put it back on when you pause. That is easier with layers that are simple to open and with clothes whose sleeves you can roll up.

Caring for clothes after a cold day

After a day outdoors the clothes should be aired or washed if they have become damp. Follow the care label and let them dry completely before you put them in the wardrobe. Dry clothes keep their shape better, and they will not pick up a stale smell from lying crumpled up.

Frequently asked questions

How many layers do I need in dry cold?

It depends on the temperature and on your activity. Three layers are a good starting point: a close inner layer, a middle layer and a windproof outer layer. Adjust along the way so you neither freeze nor sweat.

Are thin layers better than one thick jumper?

For most people yes, because you can take a layer off or put one on when the temperature changes. One thick jumper is harder to adjust when you go from outdoors to indoors.

How do I keep my feet warm?

Choose socks that fit well without squeezing and change into dry ones if they get damp. Shoes with a little room to move your toes often do more than thicker socks alone.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.