Guest Author - Hellie T.
You can walk in any kind of clothes but there are some types of clothing that will make your walking more comfortable and more enjoyable.
Remember that you are walking to get fit/lose weight and that when you walk you get hot and most of us sweat - some of us sweat quite a lot and that sweat has got to go somewhere!
By layering your clothing you can help yourself adjust to your altered body temperature and not get too overheated.
If you wear several thin layers this means that warm air will be trapped between the layers and give you better insulation which keps you warm.
You can add or remove these layers when you need to depending on the weather and your level of walking.
This will help you to stay less sticky and means you should enjoy your walking whatever the weather conditions
The Base layer
The clothing that you wear next to your body is called the base layer and ideally you need to wear a fabric that will *wick* (take away) moisture from your skin and allow it and the fabric to dry quickly.
There are many fabrics with names like Coolmax or Supplex or other thin synthetic materials that have been especially made to keep you cool and take moisture away from your body.
Have a look in the sales or reduced items - it is often easy to find last year's tops with money off.
The Mid layer or Insulating Layer
This is the layer that keeps you warm. It may be a wool sweater or a fleece top or jacket and warm trousers but it's main job is to protect you from the cold.
You can wear an ordinary sweatshirt or fleece but a good fleece specially designed for outdoor use will keep you warmer and more comfortable.
Look for items that are easy to get on and off - simple zips are best.
These also allow you to adjust the zip if you need more ventilation but still want to keep your fleece/jumper on.
Outer layer
This is the layer that protects you from the weather - the rain, the wind, snow etc.
Depending on where you live try and get as good quality waterproof (not showerproof) and windproof jacket as you can afford. I could not be without decent one in England!
Consider getting one that is made from 'breathable' material which allows your sweat to evaporate out.
Jackets come in all price ranges and in a variety of styles, remember that a cheap cagoule/mac is fine but when you have built up a sweat from walking - that sweat will have no way of escaping and you will feel damp and clammy and you can get wetter from your sweat on the inside than the rain on the outside.
Some jackets have high visibilty features which are worth considering.
A hood is useful and one with hidden pockets if you are taking your mobile phone with you.
So having got your layers - use them.
Start off
You start your walking with all your layers on.
Imagine it is a cold winter's day but the sun is shining and the wind is not too strong.
You feel coolish but not cold.
As you walk further you start to feel warmer so now it is up to you. You can take off the outer layer or take off your mid layer and put back your outer layer.
You have been walking for half an hour and are feeling very warm you can go down to your Tshirt for a quick moment - remember not to let yourself get chilled. Then put back your insulating layer.
As you near home the skies open so it is on with your outer layer again.
As you get used to walking you can adjust which layers you need
The whole point of layering your clothing is that you can adjust how much you need to wear at a particular moment.
By giving yourself the added option of materials that are breathable and that wick moisture you will feel more comfortable and enjoy your walking more!
Jackets and tops make good presents so make sure they are on your wish list!
Enjoy your walking!
