Layer like a pro: how to beat whatever Mother Nature throws your way

Calgarians are braving one of the coldest stretches in the city's recent memory.

But the trick to beating it is as easy as one, two, three layers at least according to FrederickAnsara,owner of FA design in Calgary.

"An effective layering system is the best way to fight against Mother Nature,"Ansarasaid.

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He recommends a good base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a weatherproof outer shell to protect you from the elements.

"With those three key pieces, you can adapt to all these different changing environments on the fly, regardless of the temperature," he said.

Base layer

"The base layer is the most critical component to any layering system," Ansara said.

Look for something tight-fitting that is made of wool or polyester so that it can wick sweat away from the body while providing a small amount of insulation to keep you warm.

The insulator

The mid-layer, or insulator, is where you'll retain the majority of your warmth.

"Insulators keep you nice andtoasty," saidAnsara.

Look for something with synthetic insulation, which is not only highly breathable but also highly effective at trapping your body heat. Bonus points if your mid-layer is water repellent.

Outer shell

This is the outermost layer that protects you from the elements. You want to find something that is wind-proof and waterproof, but that is breathable enough to allowyour body to vent its own heat.

"You need to be able to push that moisture out of the body, into the atmosphere," Ansara explained.

"Moisture's a big danger because when you get wet, you can get cold really quick."

But each of these three layers are meant to work together to keep your core temperature stable,and they should allow you to enjoy the outdoors comfortably no matter what the thermometer reads, Ansara said.

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