who would have thought? The material we have loved all our lives is really a killer. Or, at least that's what the "real" hikers/campers seem to think. I went recently to the local outdoor store to get some supplies, and the conversation turned to clothing. When I beamed proudly, and told them I planned to be outfitted head-to-toe in that greatest of all natural fibers, the first words out of their mouth was, "cotton kills."
Seems cotton retains moisture and won't keep you warm when wet. (Plus when it's washed it takes too long to dry.) Much the same as "down" sleeping bags, it doesn't work well when wet. And when we hike we sweat, and then it won't dry, and then the weather turns cold, and you know what comes next. For some reason wool seems to still keep us warm when wet.
But, just so happened they had some nice synthetic clothing in the store (and wool socks), so it worked out ok. I'll stay warm, they'll stay in business. The cotton will have to stay home this time.
Seems cotton retains moisture and won't keep you warm when wet. (Plus when it's washed it takes too long to dry.) Much the same as "down" sleeping bags, it doesn't work well when wet. And when we hike we sweat, and then it won't dry, and then the weather turns cold, and you know what comes next. For some reason wool seems to still keep us warm when wet.
But, just so happened they had some nice synthetic clothing in the store (and wool socks), so it worked out ok. I'll stay warm, they'll stay in business. The cotton will have to stay home this time.
Good luck Jeff, be careful and don't overdo the walking - your body will tell you when to slow down - listen to it!! We'll watch out for Rita while you're gone. Phyllis & Roy
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