Not to be a party pooper - but...

I learned that 20% of all heat loss was through the head. However, I've also heard recently that those test results were skewed in that the person was dressed for the weather except for a hat, so of course most of the heat loss would be through the unprotected head area.

Can't remember where I saw that. But the article stressed covering all points where major blood flow is close to the skin (head, neck, groin) and the use of layers and no cotton.

I will try and figure out where I saw that.

On a related subject - I was a guinea pig -- uh-- test subject at the Natick research labs for a test to determine if people who have a certain condition - Reynaud's - can be helped.

Seems if you suffer from Reynaud's you can help alleviate the it by going outside in the cold not dressed for it, but place your hands in warm water for 10 minutes, go inside for 5, repeat 2x more and do this three times a week for 6 weeks you get some relief in that you get better blood circulation in your hands. Dunno how or why it works, just that it did.

I use a Berghaus XCR Mountain Hat at the moment. It's a great hat and one of my most dependable bits of clothing.

A lightweight Trekmates Silk Balaclava works well as well being very lightweight and works well with the Berghaus XCR mountain cap.

Getting a good pair of gloves is a little more tricky though but I've have had some good results with the following gloves;

Level Hand Glacier Goretex Gloves - Mostly used for winter cycling.
Outdoor Designs Winterflex Guide Gloves
Outdoor Designs Winterflex Mitts
British Army Soldier 95 Leather Combat Gloves

My EDC always has a pair of thin running gloves in it. As for heawear, my EDC also has a BUFF Headwear in it.

When it go into Fall/Winter/into Spring I keep a polar fleece beanie in my kit.

When hunting I were a high-tech (Gore-tex, Thinsulate, Fleece, Fluorescent Orange, velcro strap) hat like Elmer Fudd, looks dorky but works well.

I match this with a 4 way orange balaclava and can sit on the deer stand for hours.

Mike

Yah, I recall something similar. Maybe it was a Google Talk video about hyper/hypo-thermia? I wish I could track that video down.

But yes, a good hat is a good idea in any case. I tend to like the fleece lined Elmer Fud hats.

-john

I don't carry a toque because I am afraid of hypothermia.
I just don't want my ears to freeze again.
They hurt like hell when they are thawing out.
(then after they thaw they stick out and look lumpy)

I carry at least 2 skull caps- one I use to nestle my lightweight aluminum teakettle in so no rattle.

Yes. Minimum 2 in the car/winter kits and a scarf/ mittens, fleece vest.