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"Why Wicking Base Layers?" At Venturesport we pride ourselves on advising the right equipment for the right job. That is why we feel it is our duty to enhance the users enjoyment of the product in the outdoors. Base layers and wicking fabrics are often talked about as being better than cotton, but why? You may say "I have always used cotton socks under my woolly socks, so why change now?" Or "Don't synthetic fabrics make you sweat more!" These are the most common statements but their are hundreds more so in our effort to dispel the myths, clarify the debate and ensure that you are getting the best from your product we have gathered information from various sources to write this guide. Base Layers (Your personal Microclimate) This is the area directly next to your skin, which needs to be kept warm and dry for comfort and performance. This is particularly important when it is cold and wet but no less relevant when it is warm and humid. To do this we need to manage the moisture which your body produces and as soon as it is produced by moving it away from the body as quickly as possible. Traditional cotton underwear may feel great when you first put it on but once you start moving it soaks up moisture and holds it like a sponge. The result is a clammy layer of clothing next to your skin, which is sticky in the heat and will chill when you stop moving. When you get cold you are uncomfortable and your body is diverting energy to keep you warm. By using synthetic performance base layers the hydrophobic (water hating) fibres transport the moisture away from your skin and helps you stay dry and comfortable. Since the Polyester fibres only absorb a negligible amount of moisture (Approx. 2%) they do not retain odour like cotton does. We occasionally have people complain that their waterproof jacket is leaking only to find out that prolonged exercise, perspiration and a rucksack blocking the jacket have made it so uncomfortable that it feels like it is leaking. Why Change Socks? With the massive use of Waterproof linings in boots now to guarantee that your feet stay dry, wicking socks are an essential. Your feet can sweat half a glass of water in a day's walking. This needs to be taken away from the feet in order to make them more comfortable. Moisture around the feet can lead to Athletes foot, Blisters, foot odour and general discomfort. The most widely used fabric in socks is Coolmax. This delivers the perfect balance of wicking, drying and Breathability. The fibre has a unique 4-channel construction that pulls moisture away from the skin to the outer surface where it can be evaporated or absorbed by another fabric. Technical T-shirts and socks are also fantastic for travelling. They pack up small, do not crease, wash out and dry very quickly and look good. So instead of taking 5 shirts away for a week you now only need to take a couple. An added bonus if you don't feel like washing them out (it is a holiday after all) is that they don't retain odour. |
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