Thermal clothing when working and walking out in the cold

When outdoors working, whether  on the farm or in the garden, winter draws in and nights get longer, temperatures start to drop and so extra clothing is needed.

There are many obvious cold weather dangers such as ice and snow, but what about the ones you don’t see?

Just because it’s got colder doesn’t mean we stop working outside. We need to be aware of the dangers and be prepared.

Perhaps you are a farmer who’s out every day feeding the sheep, fixing fences or carrying fresh water. Or perhaps you look after horses, your hands are constantly in water, washing buckets, checking they have fresh water and carrying wet hay nets. The last thing you want is to feel cold!

Dangers of working out in the cold

Working out in the cold can be invigorating, but it does come with some risks. Here are a few potential dangers to be aware of:

Hypothermia

According to the NHS, hypothermia is when your body temperature drops below 35C. Where normal body temperature is around 37C. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause your body to lose heat faster than it can produce it. Being cold will cloud your judgement and this is when mistakes happen. Prolonged exposure to the cold can cause serious accidents.

Symptoms of hypothermia can include:

• Confusion
• Disorientation
• Shivering
• Slurred speech
• Slow speech

The risk is also high for hypothermia in sheep.

Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when a part of your body freezes and as a result there is tissue damage. Fingers, toes, nose and ears are all prone to frostbite. If frostbite takes hold, then the tissue may need to be removed to prevent it from spreading.

Symptoms of frostbite include:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Patches of skin turn red, white, blue, grey, purple of brown

Chilblains

Chilblains occur when parts of your body are repeatedly exposed to temperatures just above freezing.

Symptoms of chilblains:

• Burning
• Stinging sensation
• Red, blue, purple or white swollen patches
• Mild to intense itching
• Ulcerations

In extreme weather, you may also suffer with trench foot.

More common dangers are:

Slips and falls - Ice and snow increase the risk of slipping and falling, which can lead to injuries like sprains, fractures, or concussions.

Respiratory issues - Cold air can be harsh on your respiratory system, particularly if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions. It can cause airway constriction, leading to difficulty breathing or exacerbation of existing conditions.

Dehydration - You might not feel as thirsty in cold weather, but staying hydrated is still crucial. Cold air can be quite drying, which may lead to dehydration if you're not drinking enough fluids.

How to Prevent These Conditions

To help prevent these conditions, it's essential to dress appropriately.

What Clothes To Wear

Wear layered, moisture-wicking clothing. Start with a base layer that wicks sweat away, add an insulating layer to retain heat, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer.

Hoggs of Fife Merino Wool Crew Neck Baselayer

This is the ultimate base layer for men. Made from natural fibres, the merino wool will wick away moisture which will help to regulate your body temperature. Plus the natural properties of merino wool inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria, so it remains fresh even after extended wear. This is particularly useful for farmers who are out on the field for long periods of time.

Jack Pyke Snap Neck Fleece Top

Wearing this fleece as a mdi-layer provides several advantages. The Jack Pyke snap neck fleece top is excellent at trapping heat due to its synthetic fibres, which create air pockets that retain warmth. This helps keep you warm in cold conditions without adding significant bulk. Its also lightweight and easy to wear, providing warmth without the weight of bulker materials. Making it ideal for wearing under a waterproof jacket.

Ridgeline Monsoon Jacket

The Ridgeline Monsoon jacket is a waterproof jacket that shields you from rain, snow and wind, keeping you dry and comfortable for longer. The breathable fabric allows moisture and sweat to escape from the inside of the jacket, preventing the build up of sweat and reduces the risk of feeling clammy or chilled.

The extended tail of the Monsoon jacket offers additional coverage, particularly when bending down to care for the flock.

Headwear

Heat escapes through the top of your head. Therefore keeping your head covered is vital to staying warm. Just because your head does not feel cold, does not mean heat is not escaping. If your hands and feet are cold then you are losing heat from the head area.

A safety mechanism in your body is in place to protect your head and that’s why your hands and feet get cold first!

A  chunky knit beanie, with its thick, textured knit offers excellent insulation and tends to be durable and resilient. Plus despite the warmth, many chunky knit beanies are designed to be breathable, which again helps to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.

Or if you prefer, give a  Harris Tweed Flat Cap a try. Harris Tweed is known for its insulating properties. The wool fabric provides good warmth and helps retain heat, making it suitable for cold weather. Plus Wool is naturally breathable, allowing moisture to escape while keeping you warm. 

Don’t forget gloves and a scarf or neck gaiter to protect from cold winds.

Walking in Snow – Thermal Gear

Snow you can see. The main hazard is ice! Walking on snow or ice is especially dangerous.

Checkout our checklist below on being safe when walking in snow and ice:

Wear the right boots

• Make sure there is plenty of tread on the sole of your boots
• Waterproof liner to keep snow and rain out
• Make sure you re-proof your boots with a suitable waterproof boot re-proofer, such as Nikwax fabric and leather proof or waterproofing wax for leather

Wear warm socks including liner socks

• Coolmax liner socks will keep warmth in but extract moisture so your feet remain warm and dry
• Merino socks are extremely warm and comfortable to wear
• Silk liners are cosy, warm and comfortable
• Ice grips for shoes

Conclusion

When working out on the farm or gardening, in cold weather, choosing appropriate gear is essential for comfort and safety. Wearing the right gear can keep you comfortable for longer and can also help to prevent cold whether conditions such as chilblains and slips and falls.

Whether you are looking for new  farming clothing for the winter or a gardening jacket for the next chilly morning, check out our range today.

Last Modified: 5th August 2024