Head, hands and feet are protected from the cold first

In the cold the extremities chill first. The head, hands and feet lose function and become uncomfortable faster than the rest of the body. Protecting them is therefore the first thing that holds warmth together in winter.

The head is covered and adjusted

The head is protected by adjusting how much of the head and face is left exposed. A hood adds warmth around the face. Protection is not only for when you are moving. The head is kept warm while sleeping too, because heat escapes at rest as well.

Hands are kept dry

Gloves and mittens are dried whenever there is a chance. A damp glove insulates poorly. When gloves are worn over each other, they must not end up so tight that the insulating air disappears or circulation is restricted.

Feet are kept roomy and dry

Feet stay warm in roomy footwear and in enough clean, dry socks. A sock must not compress the foot, because a sock that is too tight weakens circulation and with it warmth. Dry insoles improve warmth and move moisture away from the socks. Feet sweat even below freezing, so moisture management matters in winter too.

Layers regulate the warmth

The same layering principle applies to the extremities as to the rest of the clothing. Warmth is regulated by adding or removing layers as the situation requires. That way the head, hands and feet stay warm without sweating too much.

The information here has been gathered and summarised in our own words from the public guide Talvikoulutusopas (Winter Training Guide, 2004), pp. 33, 34, 35 and 36.