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"Choose clothing that is additive, not substitutive ." Choose the right gear the first time and benefit from your travel all the time. Simple, versatile, lightweight, compact and reliable are key factors to ensure you gain the most from your experience. Choose your clothing such that it becomes additive, not substitutive. Choose one jumper and some thermal underwear, not two jumpers, giving you versatility and saving weight. The principle is simple. For warmth use a number of light layers of close fitting clothing rather than a single bulk layer of material. As the situation dictates the number of layers can be adjusted for appropriate warmth. This provides for greater flexibility.
Wind and/or waterproof outer shell garments can be added. These shells also have the effect of increasing the efficiency of the inner warm layers. Starting with undergarments you should choose something appropriate made from one of a number of fabrics depending upon where you are going. Polypropylene fibre, chlorofibre, polyester and microfibres with the property of wicking moisture from the skin and so as to avoid cooling are favoured. Our Leisure layer clothing is made from polyester or modern microfibres. They should be extremely lightweight and comfortable, look smart and non-iron. They represent an excellent travel option because of rapid drying properties and the limited need for ironing. Cotton while it is generally quite tough and durable and can be cool and comfortable to wear is awkward in many situations where washing and ironing facilities and time may be limited. For warmth, most choose a “Polartec” fleece. Polyester fleeces are very warm and light. They are easy to manage. Choosing a better quality fleece will have its reward in the retention of appearance for many years. Because a good quality fleece lasts so long, you should choose a colour that goes with the rest of your wardrobe and you are comfortable wearing. While wool is a natural hollofibre and retains its insulation properties when wet, it is not as light or as easily managed as Polartec. The outer layer presents a number of options. You need to think carefully about what you need. For backpacking, trekking, skiing etc a durable 3 layer breathable waterproof garments such as ‘Gore Tex’ are preferred. You need to be aware that carrying your rucksack will cause the garment to wear. It is a case of knowing what you need and choosing carefully. For others, a nylon jacket is lightweight, inexpensive and compact; it does not have the comfort of a breathable fabric but it will suffice. |
