Dressing for the Outdoors

Many avoid spending time outdoors and many find it a great place to be. Over these many years, students who have enjoyed the outdoors, make themselves as comfortable as possible and have learned to avoid the pitfalls of outdoor experiences. This knowledge should be passed on to the children you teach.

Wear caps or hats and sunglasses.

Dressing properly and staying comfortable are important. Participants in this course have learned to find their way around obstacles and conditions that others who have not done so, find unbearable.

This shirt can be worn full sleeved

and then rolled up for comfort.

Warm Weather

The greatest threat to an individual's comfort is not being dressed properly. During hot weather, clothing that quickly wicks away perspiration and allows air to flow easily and remove heat is essential. I have found that shirts with nylon material lined with polyester keep my dry and cool. Both Magellan and Columbia make reasonably priced shirts. Some even offer sun shield protection and buttoned up long sleeve designs. Long sleeves also help to cut down on the number of insect bites. 

Shorts or light long pants are a preference during hot weather; however, if you will be walking on trails with thorny trees or shrubs or where insects are abundant, then long pants would be a life saver. Jeans or cargo pants provide protection, however consider the balance between protection and comfort.

Cold Weather

During winter it is best to wear layered clothing to avoid hypothermia. The number of layers depend on conditions. Your first layer and every layer after it should neither too tight or baggy. A thin layer between you and the undergarment helps to keep you warm. Add a good fitting cotton or knit shirt over your undershirt. Wear rain gear if the weather requires.

Denim or corduroy pants provide wind and protection from the cold. If it gets colder, then you may want to consider long underwear.

Head Gear

Caps and visors are comfortable and protect your face from excessive sun. However, hats provide more protection. If you will be out for a short time 5 hours or less, then caps work.

Sunglasses

Cheap sunglasses are fine with the condition that they also provide UV protection. Sporting good stores are a good source for sunglasses that meet these specifications. Some are within the $10-15 range.

Add notes in the comment section, if you have something else to offer.