Mastering the Cold: Smart Layering for Any Adventure

Keeping warm outdoors is about far more than throwing on a jacket. In this engaging in-store presentation, you’ll learn how to dress strategically for cold-weather adventures, whether you’re strolling Charleston’s historic streets on a crisp January morning or standing high on Mount Kilimanjaro, where thin air, biting wind and dramatic temperature swings demand serious preparation. We’ll explore how the human body responds to cold, why layering systems matter, and how smart clothing choices can help you stay warm, mobile and comfortable in constantly changing conditions. From pre-trip planning at home to on-the-go adjustments in the field, you’ll gain practical knowledge that can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a miserable retreat. Cold-weather success isn’t about one perfect piece of gear; it’s about flexibility, foresight and understanding how all the pieces work together when it matters most. About our speaker: Thomas Kopp is an experienced outdoor educator and avid outdoorsman who has worked as a Backcountry Ranger in Glacier National Park and served as an Associate Lecturer in Recreation at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. He brings real-world insight from cold, challenging environments to help you adventure smarter and more confidently.