I lived in Russia for two years when I was a child and I have returned to visit many times since then and now I live here as a student.I would like to take this opportunity to offer my opinion (as a foreigner) about the combination of clothing that really resists the temperatures that can be less than -25ºC.
Obviously, different activities demand a different clothing;Physical activities such as sled or ice skating demand less layers and some fast drying.However, for less active plans, such as a walk through the park, you have to warm yourself well.This list should help you (at least) dress for an intermediate point, a medium intensity activity, not to enter and leave theiers, or to sit motionless on the ground!
Capa 1: Thermal
The thermal layers have many shapes, thicknesses and materials.The standard thermal are fine, but extremely insulating, soft and flexible and cover all the four limbs.Its function is to prevent cold air from contacting bare skin and creating a heat layer between them and the skin: they are really very effective.Children take them as a base layer and, when inside, all additional layers are usually removed until they reach the upper and lower thermal garments.Adults, however, have to wear “normal” clothes under our winter team, to be able to carry out the internal activities of the day with clothing that does not seem like a pajamas of the 40s.
The solution?Choose normal garments that act like thermal, such as long -quality cotton sleeve t -shirts and tight pants or pants.These garments must be warm, but breathable, and must guarantee the movement, even when other layers of clothing are added above.
Layer 2: wool
The simplest layer, but perhaps the easiest to make mistakes, is the layer that acts as the last defense against the cold.It can be very tempting to opt for aesthetics instead of warmth and choose an elegant knit jacket or a V neck sweater that fits well with the rest of your clothes.But, warning!If you do this, you will need a coat so incredibly thick to compensate that it will cost you to enter the portals.
Instead, choose a polar lining or a thick and durable sweater, preferably wool or similar, that reaches the chin: a high neck or a polar lining with zipper they work especially well well.If the wind can sneak down, the chosen garment will be much less effective.
Layer 3: ша, also known as "skin" layer
This layer is called that because, at least among Russian women, there is nothing less acceptable.And they are right.The ша (pronounced "shu-b") is the coat of Russian skin, which is usually made of a series of animal skins, both genuine and artificial.Prices depend on the type of skin that is chosen, being the one that costs the most, while rabbit is a more affordable option.These coats, in addition to having a glamorous appearance, are really very warm.They have the added advantage that they reach half of the pimples or ankles, which totally fights the cold of the wind, which is what finally makes the air feel so cold.If you opt for a normal jacket to the waist, then you can consider long panties or something similar for the legs.
If a ша is not for you, or you prefer something more practical, then opt for a coat similar to the one that would be used to ski.It must be waterproof and very warm, perhaps with ventilation networks under the arms, which can be unraveling while inside.
Accessories
Hat: you must have earmuffs or at least cover the ears, or will freeze and hurt a lot.
Scarf: It should not be too woolly or thick, or your breath will moisten and freeze.Try a finer and more breathable scarf.
Gloves: In my opinion, the most important piece of winter clothes, without which your hands are simply motionless.I usually choose two pairs: a fine cotton or polyester lay.
Socks: Choose two pairs: a pair of normal fine socks that act as thermal layer and a good pair of thick ski or hiking socks that work well above;Of course, be sure not to cut the circulation.
Footwear: It is practically impossible to walk through Moscow in winter without having to step on or cross the snow.For this reason, I strongly recommend that you do with a couple of snow boots;They are warm, durable, waterproof, snowproof and can be quite elegant if you choose the right.
Read more: this is how public transport of Moscow is prepared for Russian winter
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