What are the best warm clothes for Winter?
Posted by Team NZNC on 13th Jul 2023
Is it chilly where you are right now? It's always winter somewhere in the world, and we want to make sure you're prepared for it!
Did you know that just beneath the surface of our skin, we have specialised temperature-sensitive nerve endings called thermoreceptors? These clever little receptors help our bodies detect changes in temperature and respond accordingly.
When the temperature drops, our thermoreceptors send signals to the nervous system, triggering responses that help conserve body heat. One of these responses is the narrowing of small blood vessels near the skin's surface, reducing blood flow to our extremities and helping maintain warmth around vital organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys and liver.
Our bodies are remarkably clever at protecting us from the cold, but we reckon it's better not to put them through unnecessary stress every time the temperature takes a tumble!
That's why we recommend being properly prepared for the chilly weather, with the right clothing to keep you warm, comfortable and ready for whatever winter throws your way.
The art of layering
Layering is a clever way to keep ourselves warm and well insulated while being prepared for changing temperatures. It's pretty nifty, really!
It's especially handy when you're moving in and out of warm buildings or travelling on public transport, where you might need to quickly (and inconspicuously!) shed a layer or two without making a fuss.
Your base layer
The ideal base layer should fit snugly against your skin while helping to wick moisture away, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
We're particularly fond of Merino wool because it naturally helps regulate body temperature and manages moisture, keeping you comfortable when you're active and as your body cools down.
A fantastic all-day choice that helps keep you feeling fresh, warm and comfortable, even beneath multiple layers!
The middle layer has an important job to do! Not only does it help move moisture away from your Merino base layer, but it's also the layer the world gets to see should you happen to stumble into a cosy pub with a roaring fire!
Wool is a wonderful choice for this layer, thanks to its natural warmth, softness and durability. Here at New Zealand Natural Clothing, we have a fantastic selection of tunics, ponchos and sweaters for women, all of which are popular choices for keeping warm without compromising on style.
The mid-layer works by trapping pockets of air close to your body, helping to retain warmth and keep the cold at bay. So, make sure you invest in good-quality garments with a comfortable fit that allows you to move freely.
Your insulation layer
This is the big, cosy layer that provides that extra warmth when it's absolutely freezing outside! We're talking chunky garments, heavy knits or even thick padding. This layer is all about keeping the chill off your bones.
For us, the insulation layer is where our wonderfully warm woollen jerseys really come into their own:
Your outer layer
An oilskin jacket could well be your best friend when the weather turns nasty! The beauty of oilskin is that it provides a protective outer layer, helping to keep you dry thanks to its specially treated, water-resistant fabric.
Our Waimak Oilskin Jacket is wool-lined and long-sleeved, making it a fantastic choice for those chilly, unpredictable days.
If you're not already the lucky owner of an oilskin jacket, you'll certainly want a reliable outer layer to protect you from whatever the weather throws your way.
This outer layer acts as your shield against wind, rain, sleet, hail and snow… you get the idea! Its job is to keep the elements at bay while helping your inner layers stay as dry as a bone.
If you're after a quality outer garment, we'd always encourage you to consider oilskin. Traditionally made from treated cotton, oilskin offers excellent weather resistance, durability and timeless style. With the right care, a good oilskin jacket can be a trusty companion for many winters to come!
What are the best fibres to keep you warm?
There's little point heading out into the elements all kitted out if your clothing is made from fibres that aren't doing their best to keep you warm and comfortable!
Here at New Zealand Natural Clothing, we're proud to source quality, sustainable natural fibres, including those produced right here in New Zealand. Not only do they feel wonderful against your skin, but they also work hard to provide the warmth, comfort and breathability you need from every layer.
Possum fur
Possum fibre is wonderfully soft, lightweight and exceptionally warm. Its unique hollow structure helps trap warm air close to the body, providing excellent insulation without the bulk. It also helps manage moisture, keeping you feeling warm and comfortable, even in chilly conditions.
Possum fibre is a fantastic choice for snowy days when you want to stay beautifully warm without feeling weighed down or overheated!
Merino wool
Merino wool in the 18–20 micron range is a personal favourite of ours, thanks to its exceptional softness, breathability and ability to wick moisture away from the skin.
With its natural temperature-regulating properties, wonderful warmth and next-to-skin comfort, Merino wool is our fibre of choice for base-layer garments!
Sheeps wool
Sheep's wool has long been the mainstay of traditional woollen knitwear, and for good reason! Naturally warm, durable and hard-wearing, it's a fantastic choice for those who spend plenty of time outdoors.
If you're frequently out in the cold, tackling a bit of manual labour or simply braving the winter elements, a good-quality woollen layer will see you through some pretty tough conditions!
As an added bonus, wool is naturally water-resistant, helping to repel light moisture while keeping you warm and comfortable. Always a welcome advantage when you're battling the winter chill!
What are the best warm clothes for winter?
Here's what we recommend:
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Plenty of layers to help you adjust to changing temperatures.
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Clothing made from high-quality natural fibres.
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Moisture-wicking properties to help keep you dry and comfortable.
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Excellent insulating properties to trap warmth close to your body.
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Garments that offer maximum comfort without restricting movement.
Now you've got a good starting point for getting properly kitted out for winter! Choose your layers wisely, stay warm and comfortable, and give those clever little thermoreceptors a well-earned break.
After all, winter is much more enjoyable when you're dressed for it!
New Zealand Natural Clothing’s Top 6 Winter Picks:
We're always here if you need a little advice or assistance!
If you're local, pop in and see us in-store. And if you're from further afield, simply drop us a message through our website's chat box, and one of our friendly natural fibre experts will get back to you as soon as possible.
We're always happy to help you find the right clothing to keep you warm, comfortable and ready for whatever the weather throws your way!