Cross-country skiers who dress too warmly and cover themselves with ill-fitting clothing never make the same mistake twice. To avoid overheating during exercise and shivering when you take a break, you should instead favor multiple layers, each with a role to play.
underwear
“The most important layer is thin underwear that adheres to the skin (top and bottom of the body), which will evacuate the moisture that the body will generate during exercise and retain heat,” explains Frederic Duchesne of Demers Bicycles and Cross—a cross-country ski shop in Limoilo.
It is best to avoid fabrics containing merino wool, a natural antimicrobial fiber that regulates temperature and does not retain unpleasant odors, as well as polyester (often blended with polyamide fabric) which absorbs moisture well and dries quickly, unlike cotton which should be avoided.
Middle class
A second bed with more clothing, with a handbag or a jacket without a manche to protect vital organs (linen of wool, polyester or other synthetic insulation), continue to guide the humidification absorbed by the previous couch on the outside, with more moisture. the heat.
The temperature as well as the intensity of physical activity and the type of cross-country skier (reflective skier, continuous skier, fairly cold, profuse sweating, etc.) will or will not encourage the addition of this optional layer to the upper body. . .
“You have to know yourself so you can adjust the layers and choose the right clothes,” says Mr. Duchesne.
Image taken from lecoureurnordique.ca
Soft shell
This third layer consists of a coat and pants that will cut the wind in the front while promoting moisture evacuation in the back, behind the legs, and under the arms.
Some fairly warm pants can be worn without an underlayer or simply with underwear that provides extra protection in the front. Other cross-country skiers would be more comfortable wearing leggings, Ms. Jolibois explains.
It is possible to add an insulated skirt or shorts to cover the hips, buttocks and sensitive parts, which are the areas most sensitive to cold. For added neck and ear protection during windy hikes, Ms. Jolebois recommends wearing an adjustable hooded jacket.
As a third layer, a soft shell with a hood, cuts the wind in the front and breathes in the back.
Image taken from lecoureurnordique.ca
the parties
Mr. Duchesne emphasizes that before leaving, it is necessary to ensure that slippers, shoes, socks and feet are completely dry. Socks of the right thickness, lined and made of Merino wool will prevent frozen toes. Gloves or gloves reinforced under the palm for added durability, then combined with a moisture-wicking underlayer are a winning combination, according to Hélène Jolebois, of the Le Coureur Nordic store in the Upper Town.
Heated gloves and socks are also very popular. Polyester, merino wool or Lycra in different thicknesses to accommodate multiple temperatures can easily be carried in a bag while hiking. And why not pair it with orange for added neck and ear protection?
It is normal to feel a little cold at first, because after a kilometer or two of sport the cross-country skier will know whether he is well dressed. When you go out and feel hot before you start skiing, that's not a good sign, says Ms. Jolibois.
“Hardcore beer fanatic. Falls down a lot. Professional coffee fan. Music ninja.”
More Stories
He scanned his brain when he was two years old: the “stairs” of life
Why does your cell phone get hot and what to do when it happens?
Canadian SMEs are moving from curiosity to action on AI