Dressing For Nordic Skiing
Jeannie Wall
Dressing for Nordic skiing used to be a problem that was a serious crux of the sport. Fortunately, developments in fabrics, designs and perceptions have solved. Cold temperatures, high-speeds that create a wind wind chill factor and the sweat of high intensity work, which in turn builds up internal moisture fast, make for create a unique combination of clothing challenges. For years, layering up thin synthetic fabrics were thought to be the method of choice for many years. One could peel or add layers at will, depending on output, conditions and duration of the workout. However, typically, the base layer would remain damp, regardless of outer layers, under many others including a windproof, not so breathable shell exterior. This often resulted in a cold, moist, uncomfortable environment for the skier, not too mention,the a wad of layers around the waist!
Thanks to many very hardcore Scottish climbers, and a few believers at Patagonia who helped innovate their ideas, the advent of a newer method of dressing for high intensity and high sweat activities have been further developed and advanced to provide a drier, more comfortable next to skin climate.
The idea is as simple as and relates back to the function of animal fur---. A next to skin layer with a directional fabric that provides mechanical wicking keeping the dry, warm feeling where you need it most. The outer layer should be a stretch woven, breathable, and non-windproof fabric providing a wind and snow resistant shell using a little bit of airflow to help dry the whole system. Ideally, this can even be in one complete layer. (Ex., Core Skin Jacket) or Cool Weather worn alone.
The trick is to eliminate layers. Starting with a a system that is simpler, more open and breathable allows you to begin warm and dry and stay that way. Occasionally, different climates require tweaking the system to different needs. Ultimately, however, this concept works well for high aerobic activities in wet to dry climates.
Recommended System from Patagonia, Inc.
Windshield Tight, Vest and Jacket:
Worn alone or over either lightweight Capilene or R.5, this highly wind and water resistant fabric has the additional benefit of stretch and a soft-brushed interior. It that is comfortable enough to be worn against the skin when more moderate temperatures preclude the need for a base layer. Its medium weight, stretch and breathability allow the skier to start warm and stay that way continue so throughout a long training session. The tights are my staple all winter for every Nordic workout. The back of the legs, vest and jacket are nicely constructed of a very quick drying, yet fleecy smooth faced expedition weight which acts as an exhaust pipe for sweat and heat build up.
Cool Weather Top and Tight:
These are best worn alone or just under just a vest in fall or in warmer winter temperatures. The nylon outer provides a tight knit for wind and snow resistance while pulling moisture out of the inner polyester and away from your skin. where external wind and sun can dry it. Worn under shells and/or other layers, the nylon will have a tendency to take longer to dry. Best recommendation here is for the Houdini shell or French Roast jacket over the CW top when needed.
French Roast Jacket and Pants and/or Figure 4 Jacket:
Worn over R.5, this is the quickest drying system we make for high intensity output. The unique air channel polyester open knit construction of R.5 gives warmth, next to skin and incredibly quick dry time and wicking characteristic unlike any other base layer I’ve ever worn. Combined with a breathable, yet wind/snow resistant stretch woven fabric like French Roast or Figure 4, this system will stay dry and warm hours and even days into a serious tour.
Jeannie Wall:
Jeannie is a product development/marketing consultant responsible for helping create Patagonia’s Endurance line. An avid mountaineer, nordic and randonnee racer, she was the top American female on the North American Randonnee Rally circuit last winter. In addition Jeannie was the top woman finisher at the ’02 American Birkebeiner.