Why You Should Avoid Cotton
Cotton is a popular fabric choice for clothing, but it is not the best option for strenuous activities, especially in cold weather. This is because cotton is a highly absorbent material, which means it can absorb a lot of moisture, such as sweat, and hold onto it.
When you are doing a strenuous activity, your body produces sweat to cool you down. If you wear cotton clothing, the sweat will be absorbed by the fabric and stay close to your skin. This can make you feel cold, as the moisture on your skin will lower your body temperature. The wet cotton will also add extra weight to your clothing, making your workout more challenging.
Furthermore, cotton does not dry quickly, which means that if your clothing gets wet, it will stay wet for a long time. This can be dangerous in cold weather, as wet clothing can increase the risk of hypothermia.
To keep warm and dry during strenuous activity in cold weather, it is best to wear natural or synthetic fabric that wicks away moisture, such as wool, silk, polyester, or nylon. These fabrics are designed to pull moisture away from the skin, so it can evaporate quickly, keeping you dry and warm.
It's also important to note that layering is essential when exercising in cold weather. You can trap heat and keep yourself warm by layering with fabrics such as wool or fleece. Additionally, it's a good idea to have a wind-proof and water-resistant outer layer to protect yourself from the elements.
In conclusion, cotton is not the best fabric for strenuous activities, especially in cold weather. Synthetic fabrics that wick away moisture and layering are more appropriate to keep you warm and dry and reduce the risk of hypothermia. Choosing the proper clothing to ensure a safe and comfortable workout in cold weather is essential.