Chaos Merino Wool Clothing
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- ChaosHacker Merino Beanie$18.73Save 25%compared to $24.99(4)4 reviews with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 starsREI OUTLET
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Related Expert Advice articles
Read full article: How to Choose Plus Size Outdoor Gear and Apparel
Choose a fabric type
- Wool: Stays warm when wet, resists odor and wicks moisture
- Synthetic (nylon, polyester or acrylic): Ideal for sensitive skin, trap warmth and wick moisture.
How much cushioning do you want?
- No cushioning: Best for tighter-fitting performance boots that have a tighter fit or maximum ground feel
- Light cushioning: Shin padding with minimal cushioning on the balls of the feet, often with reinforced toes and heels
- Medium cushioning: Added padding for warmth and impact absorption; ideal for cold conditions or looser-fitting boots
Length
- Knee high: Most socks for skiing and snowboarding go up to the knees to help protect from shin bang
- Crew: Cross-country skiers and snowshoers may prefer shorter hiking socks
Hiking shoe vs. hiking boot
- Hiking shoes
- Often lighter weight, lower cut, more flexible and more breathable
- Ideal for day hikes or backpacking with lighter loads
- Hiking boots
- Burlier, with stiffer uppers, over-the-ankle coverage and typically waterproof
- Ideal for multi-day treks with heavier loads
Types of hiking boots
- Day-hiking boots: Mid- to high-cut models that require less break in time; intended for day hikes or short backpacking trips with light loads
- Backpacking boots: Often over-the-ankle height and heavier-built with stiffer midsoles; designed to support multiday treks with heavier loads
Consider the lugs
- Deep, thick lugs improve grip
- Wider lug spaces sheds mud and offer good traction
Which insulation do you prefer?
- Down: Ultralight, warm and packable; loses insulation when damp
- Synthetic: Insulates when damp, dries quickly; heavier and less packable than down
- Down/synthetic: Warm in targeted spots; warm when wet but heavier than pure down
Consider these features
Waterproof: Most are water-resistant; choose waterproof for added protection
- Ventilation: Pit zips or core vents help release heat during high-exertion activities
- Hoods: Some detach or accommodate helmets
- 3-in-1 jackets: Outer shell and insulated midlayer zip together; wear separately or as one
- Pockets: Stash gear, secure valuables
Types of Shoes
Mountain bike: added traction for rugged trails; options for clipless or flat pedals
Road cycling: stiffest soles for efficient pedaling; cleats connect to clipless pedals for maximum pedaling efficiency.
City biking: comfortable, everyday; good for recreational riding or commuting
Find the Right Fit
Choose shoes that feel comfortable from the start.
Make sure your toes have enough room to wiggle slightly.
Your arches should feel snug and supported; your heel should stay in place.
Shoe Closure
Lace-up: most customizable fit, can get wet or dirty in bad weather
Strap: quick to adjust and more likely to stay secure
Dial lace: delivers an adjustable fit with a quick-release cable system
Single-pull lace: easy on and off with a single lace toggle
Sun-Protective Clothing Basics
- UV exposure poses risks in both warm and cold conditions
- Exposure risks are greater at higher elevation and equatorial locations
- For more UV protection, wear both UPF clothing and sunscreen
Understanding UPF Ratings
- Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates how much UV radiation can reach skin through a fabric
- The higher the UPF rating, the more effective the sun protection
- UPF 15 allows roughly 7% of UV rays to pass through
- UPF 30 allows roughly 3% of UV rays to pass through
- UPF 50 allows roughly 2% of UV rays to pass through
- UPF 50+ allows less than 2% of UV rays to pass through
UPF Clothing Materials
- Hot weather: Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking UPF garments
- Cold weather: Choose UPF-rated merino wool or synthetic base warmer layers
Read full article: How to Choose Sun-Protection (UPF) Clothing
