In winter, every layer of clothing matters

Did you know there are rules for outdoor clothing? Not like Emily Post or Mr. Blackwell. These are rules to keep you warm, dry and seen. And they all start with L for layers.

Show your colors: Wear bright red, yellow or orange reflective clothing including vests, headbands, belts, sashes and leg bands, on the chest, arms, waist, legs and ankles.

Never wear white, gray or other light-colored clothes especially in foggy or snowy conditions.

Base layer: Wear thermal underwear and polyblend thermal tops that wick moisture away from the body. Do not wear spandex as any part of your clothing.

Midfield: The insulation layer can be a polyester sweater or shirt and fleece-lined snowpants.

Outer limits: This is the protective layer with more insulation: nylon pants, which have a cinch cord waist and zippers at the ankles, and a good hooded jacket with a midlayer fleece lining, which can separate from the outer shell.

Also wear big gloves with polyester lining, Smartwool socks over poly liner socks and insulated winter boots.

Use a neck/face warmer and a fleece hat or knitted cap.

These tips are courtesy of Dr. Donna Mendes, a member of the Society for Vascular Surgery, who warns that tight clothing that interferes with circulation anywhere in the body can be dangerous.

For example, she says, a tight collar could constrict blood flow to the brain and cause a temporary loss of consciousness.

Mendes suggests watching for signs such as dizziness, nausea or vision problems.

Herald staff