It's not how much you wear that matters but rather what you wear to stay dry and comfortable in cold and wet conditions. Dressing for the occasion is especially important for safety reasons in work environments where workers are exposed to harsh weather conditions for long durations.

Layering is the key to staying dry, warm and safe in adverse conditions. Typically a three-layer system of dress provides a comfortable level of warmth for workers who spend hours at a time outside. The first layer, called the base layer, is close fitting and moves perspiration away from the skin keeping it dry and warm. The second layer, or thermal layer, is designed to insulate the body from cold conditions and assists the base layer in moving excess moisture away from the body. The outer protection layer provides a shield that keeps rain, wind and cold from getting too close to the body.

Cotton t-shirts are a popular alternative in warm conditions but they're the wrong thing to wear next to the skin in wet conditions. It's vital to stay dry and regulate body temperature through venting or shedding layers when conditions improve. Wool is a better natural alternative that maintains its warmth properties even when wet. Synthetic base layers made out of fibers such as LIFA polypropylene work best to quickly move excess moisture away from the skin.

The middle apparel layer provides the greatest amount of warmth in the three-layer system. Fleece/pile jackets, crews and pants are popular thermal layer garments recommended for their insulating properties. Warm air gets trapped in the loft of the pile while moisture can still move to the outer layer where it turns into water vapor. Wool is the best performing natural thermal fiber that maintains its warmth properties but holds onto moisture longer than synthetic alternatives.

Outerwear comes in a variety fabrics and styles designed for specific work environments, including high visibility, flame retardant and fully waterproof jackets, pants and bibs. PVC, IMPERTECH® (Polyurethane) and waterproof/breathable fabrics are popular materials used for rain, snow and wind protection.

Polyvinyl-chloride multi-coated fabrics provide absolute waterproofness, durability and value for long-term use. The coatings resist chemicals, oil, grease, salt water and sunlight, and are machine washable.

IMPERTECH® (Polyurethane) jackets and pants are a lightweight alternative to PVC. A waterproof PU coating on a soft knit backing material results in a unique stretch fabric that is highly durable and comfortable.

Waterproof-breathable garments, such as HELLY TECH, are popular with work wear users. The fabrics are durable, lightweight and allow excessive body heat to escape and still provide a shield against rain, snow and wind.

Dry equals warm when it comes to dressing for weather. Apparel worn on the job should work with the body to move sweat and excessive heat away from the skin and still insulate and protect the worker from the elements. Investing in the right base, thermal and outerwear garments will ensure workers can remain comfortable and safe on the job over a longer period of time.

For more information on Helly Hansen WorkWear and the three-layer system of dress, visit www.HHWORKWEAR.com or call 1-800-435-5901.