The Layering Myth: Why Your Thick Sweater Isn't Saving You from the Cold Wave

As the India Meteorological Department extends the cold wave alert, the common mistake people make is reaching for one exceptionally thick sweater. However, textile researchers and health experts are now promoting the "Base Layer Strategy" to combat the chill effectively .

The secret lies in creating "dead air space." Wearing multiple thin layers traps air between them, which your body heats up, creating a powerful insulating barrier. The first layer (touching your skin) should be moisture-wicking—a snug-fitting synthetic or silk vest to keep sweat away from the skin. Wet skin cools down 25 times faster than dry skin.

The second layer should be insulating, like a woolen sweater or a fleece. The third (outer) layer should be windproof. "In India, we often wear a woolen sweater and then a thick parka over it, but we skip the crucial base layer," explains textile scientist Arjun Mehta. "This 'sandwich' effect is non-negotiable for trapping body heat" .

Another vital hack is the "Muffler Strategy." Wrapping a scarf around the neck protects the carotid arteries. Since a significant amount of blood flows through the neck, keeping this area insulated ensures that the blood reaching your brain stays warm, reducing the strain on your body's central heating system .