In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about survival clothing. This is the ONLY survival clothing guide you will need.
By the end of the guide, you will learn what type of clothing is best for extreme weather, how to layer it, survival clothing hacks, and more.
This comes from someone who has learned from mistakes, so you don’t have to make the same mistakes.
Let’s dive right in.
What to Look for in Clothing
When considering what to look for in clothing, you’ll need to consider the extremity of your environment and if it’s hot or cold. You’ll use a few different pieces of clothing if it’s hot rather than cold.
The most important thing to look for in survival clothing is comfort. You want to be able to move freely and not have to worry about your clothes constricting your movement.
Look for clothing made from breathable materials like wool or synthetic fabrics. Having clothing that isn’t overly heavy is also something to look for when considering comfort.
Next, you’ll want clothing with good insulation, unless you will only go in hot weather for the rest of your life. In that case, ignore this point.
A good insulator will trap heat without causing you to sweat. Insulation is made from material that has micro-fleece.
Finally, look for solid protection from all the natural elements the world has to throw at you. This includes protection from water on the ground and sky, hail, wind, UV rays, and things that can scratch or bite you.
Shirts
When looking for shirts, you should look for one that is made of durable, breathable fabric. It should also be comfortable to wear and offer a good range of motion. Since shirts are base layers, they should be breathable and lightweight.
The recommended material is synthetic, which we’ll get into later.
Additionally, the shirt should be able to protect you from the sun and other environmental hazards.
You should get long sleeve shirts, as these provide the maximum amount of protection from elements like UV rays, rain, and more.
Pants
When looking for a good pair of survival pants, there are many factors to consider.
First, you must consider the climate and terrain where you will be using them. If you plan on using them in a cold environment, you will need a thicker, more insulated pair of pants.
If you are using them in a hot climate, you will need a lighter-weight pair of pants. You also need to consider the type of activities you will be doing while wearing them.
If you are doing a lot of hiking, you will need a pair of pants with good ankle support. If you plan on doing a lot of climbing, you will need a pair of pants with good upper-body support.
Generally, pants are mid-layer to fortress layer, so having polyfiber waterproof pants that can keep some good insulation is essential if you’re in an area that can get cold or wet.
Here’s our article on the warmest survival pants for survival.
Socks
Socks are one of the essential items of clothing for survival in cold weather. They provide insulation for the feet, helping to keep them warm. Socks also help to protect the feet from frostbite and other cold weather injuries.
Survival socks are typically made from wool, an excellent insulation material. Wool can trap air close to the skin, which helps to keep the feet warm. Wool is also moisture-resistant, which helps to keep the feet dry and comfortable.
In cold weather, it is important to wear socks that fit well. Socks that are too tight can restrict blood flow to the feet, which can lead to frostbite.
Socks that are too loose can cause blisters. Choosing a sock that provides a good fit without being too constricting is important.
When choosing socks for cold weather, it is also essential to consider the type of footwear that will be worn. Socks that are too thick can make it difficult to wear boots or other closed-toe shoes. Socks that are too thin may not provide enough insulation for the feet.
It is also important to choose comfortable socks. Socks that are too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable to wear. Socks that are made from scratchy materials can also irritate the skin.
It is important to choose socks that are made from soft, comfortable materials. As we said before, wool would be a good candidate for this job.
Socks are an essential item of clothing for survival in cold weather. They provide insulation for the feet, helping to keep them warm.
Socks also help to protect the feet from frostbite and other cold weather injuries.
Underpants
When choosing a pair of survival underpants, there are a few things you should look for. First, make sure the underpants are made of durable, breathable fabric. Synthetic is a generally good material for underpants as it’s durable and breathable.
Breathability is essential, especially when you’re packing on several layers of underpants to protect your treasures.
Second, look for a pair that has a comfortable fit and a suitable waistband.
Third, choose a pair of underpants that will provide adequate coverage and support. Lastly, ensure the underpants are easy to care for and will not fade or shrink over time.
Jacket
When looking for a survival jacket, you should consider its wind and water resistance, warmth, and breathability.
A jacket is an essential piece of survival gear because it can make the difference between life and death in a survival situation. A good jacket will keep you warm, dry, and protected from the elements and can help you survive in a variety of conditions.
I generally find polyfibers and down to be suitable materials for jackets.
The jacket should also have multiple pockets for storing essential items, a hood for protection from the elements, and a bright color for visibility.
Here’s our article on the warmest jackets for survival.
Boots
There are a few things you should look for when purchasing survival boots.
Firstly, you’ll need good waterproofing and insulation. Good survival boots will be both waterproof and insulated, to help keep your feet dry and warm in wet and cold conditions.
Next, good traction is a must. Your boots should have good traction to help you keep your footing in slippery or unstable conditions. This will prevent many injuries that you’ll most definitely get if you don’t have good traction.
Survival boots also need to be durable enough to withstand the rigors of the outdoors.
Look for boots made of tough, abrasion-resistant materials. This is the most important aspect, because out of all your clothes, your boots will receive the most roughage.
Finally, you’ll need to make sure your boots fit well and are comfortable to wear. Poorly fitting boots can cause blisters and other problems.
Here’s our article on the best survival boots.
Best Clothing Materials for Outdoors
The best survival clothing materials are those that provide the most insulation, waterproofing, and wind resistance.
Wool, Polyfiber, and Synthetic materials are the best choices for survival clothing. They will keep you warm in the coldest conditions and dry in the wettest weather.
Polyfibers
Polyfibers are good in survival clothing because they are lightweight, durable, and quick drying. They are also resistant to mold and mildew since they repel water very well. This is one of the best exterior materials.
Wool
Wool is an excellent insulator and even has antibacterial and odor-resistant properties. It’s recommended for this to be base-layer survival clothing. You should not use this as your primary exterior material since it quickly absorbs moisture.
Synthetic
Finally, Synthetic materials are often lighter and more packable than natural materials, making them ideal for survival situations where every ounce counts.
It’s often more durable than natural materials, making them ideal for survival situations where you may need to rely on your clothing to protect you from the elements.
Synthetic materials often have superior wicking properties, making them ideal for survival situations where you may need to stay dry and comfortable.
Synthetic materials often have built-in UV protection, making them ideal for survival situations where you may need to protect yourself from the sun.
Additionally, Synthetic has good breathability. This is a good base layer, as it’s lightweight and scores highly in most categories.
Avoid Cotton At All Costs
Avoid cotton, as it will absorb sweat and become uncomfortable. Cotton has very few survival clothing attributes, so it’s best to exclude this from your clothing set.
Layering to Keep Warm
There are many reasons why you should layer clothing. Layering clothing can help you stay warm in cold weather, cool in hot weather, and dry in wet weather.
Layering clothing can also help you avoid blisters and chafing and can provide you with extra protection from the sun and from biting insects.
In cold weather, layering clothing helps you stay warm by trapping heat next to your body.
The best way to layer clothing is to start with a base layer of synthetic material or wool next to your skin, followed by a layer of fleece or down, and then topped with a wind- and waterproof outer layer.
Depending on weather conditions, you can adjust the number and thickness of layers.
In hot weather, layering clothing helps you stay cool by providing ventilation and allowing sweat to evaporate.
The best way to layer clothing in hot weather is to start with a light base layer of synthetic material next to your skin, followed by a layer of light cotton, and then topped with a loose, breathable outer layer.
Depending on weather conditions, you can adjust the number and thickness of layers.
In wet weather, layering clothing helps you stay dry by providing a barrier between your skin and the wet weather outside.
The best way to layer clothing in wet weather is to start with a waterproof outer layer, followed by a layer of synthetic material or wool next to your skin, and then topped with a layer of fleece or down.
Depending on weather conditions, you can adjust the number and thickness of layers.
Layering clothing can also help you avoid blisters and chafing. Blisters are caused by friction, and chafing is caused by rubbing.
Wearing layers of clothing can help reduce friction and rubbing and can help keep your skin dry, preventing blisters and chafing.
Layering clothing can also provide extra protection from the sun and biting insects.
Wearing layers of clothing can help block the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays and can help protect your skin from insect bites.
Layering clothing is a great way to stay comfortable in all kinds of weather conditions.
By starting with a base layer of synthetic material or wool next to your skin, you can trap heat next to your body in cold weather, provide ventilation and allow sweat to evaporate in hot weather, and create a barrier between your skin and the wet weather outside in wet weather.
Layering clothing can also help you avoid blisters and chafing and can provide you with extra protection from the sun and from biting insects.
Pro Tip: Ensure your clothing is loose enough to allow for layering. Layering will help you regulate your body temperature, as you can add or remove layers as needed.
Base Layer
When it comes to base layer clothing, there are a few key things you should look for to ensure that you stay comfortable and warm.
First, you’ll want to make sure that the fabric is breathable and will wick away moisture. This will help to keep you dry and comfortable, even when you’re sweating.
Secondly, you’ll want to choose a lightweight fabric that won’t add any extra bulk or weight to your clothing.
Lastly, you’ll want to ensure that the base layer clothing you choose fits well and doesn’t restrict your movement.
Mid Layer
When looking for mid-layer clothing, it is essential to consider what type of activity you will be using it for.
Suppose you need a mid-layer for high-intensity activity, such as running or cross-country skiing. In that case, you will need a different type of clothing than if you are looking for a mid-layer for a lower-intensity activity, such as hiking or walking.
The type of fabric you choose is also essential.
A mid-layer made of wool or synthetic fabric will be better at wicking away sweat and keeping you warm than a mid-layer made of cotton.
When choosing a mid-layer, it is also essential to consider the fit. A mid-layer that is too tight will be uncomfortable and will not allow your body to breathe.
A mid-layer that is too loose will not provide the insulation you need. Finally, it would be best if you also considered the cost of the mid-layer. A more expensive mid-layer will usually be of higher quality and will last longer than a cheaper one.
Fortress Layer
When shopping for a shell layer, it is crucial to look for a few key features.
First, you want a shell layer that is waterproof and windproof. This will help to keep you dry and comfortable in all kinds of weather conditions.
Second, you want a breathable shell layer. This will help to regulate your body temperature and prevent you from overheating.
Third, you want a shell layer that is lightweight and comfortable. This will help to ensure that you can move freely and comfortably while wearing the shell layer.
Finally, you want a durable shell layer. This will help to ensure that you can enjoy your shell layer for many years to come.
Pro Tip: Keep Extra Survival Clothing
Regarding survival, having extra clothes can make all the difference. Whether trying to stay warm in cold weather or protect yourself from the sun and heat, having the proper clothing can mean the difference between life and death.
Even if you are heading into the woods in the middle of summer, the weather can take a turn for the worse. If you get caught in a storm, you will be glad you have extra clothes to keep you warm and dry.
Packing extra clothes may seem like a lot of work, but it can make all the difference in a survival situation.
Make sure to pack clothes that are appropriate for the climate you will be in and the activities you will be doing. And, most importantly, don’t forget to pack extra clothes for survival.
In addition to the clothing you already have, you should have a few extra items for survival. These additional items can help you stay warm, dry, and protected from the elements.
A few extra items of clothing you should have for survival include:
- Socks: Socks can help protect your feet from blisters and keep them warm.
- Shirt: A shirt can help stay warm with extra layering and can be used as a pillow.
- Shoes: Shoes can help protect your feet and provide traction. If your boots break, you won’t walk far in cold weather.
- Hat: A hat can help keep your head warm and can be used to signal for help.
- Gloves: Gloves can help keep your hands warm and can be used to grip tools or weapons. Hands are prone to frostbite, and if you use your gloves a lot, there’s a chance they’ll break.
Dangers of Losing Body Heat
Your body can maintain a constant internal temperature of 37°C, give or take a degree, thanks to some clever feedback mechanisms involving the brain, nervous system, endocrine system, and blood vessels.
These systems work together to keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. If you lose heat faster than your body can produce it, your internal temperature will drop, and you’ll develop hypothermia.
Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing your internal temperature to drop below 35°C.
Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness.
If not treated, hypothermia can lead to coma and death. Your risk of developing hypothermia increases if you’re exposed to cold weather, wet weather, or windy conditions.
Alcohol and certain drugs, such as sedatives and antidepressants, can also increase your risk of developing hypothermia.
Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if you think someone has hypothermia.
Meanwhile, take the following steps to warm the person:
- Get them out of the cold.
- Remove any wet clothing.
- Wrap them in a warm, dry blanket.
- Warm their body slowly with warm, not hot, water. Apply the water to the larger surfaces of their body, such as their chest, back, and groin.
- Don’t massage their body.
- Don’t give them alcohol to drink.
- Don’t use a heating pad or heat lamp.
If you can’t get to a hospital immediately, warm your body slowly and monitor its temperature closely. If their temperature drops below 33°C, call 911 or your local emergency number directly.
Survival Clothing Hacks
Thinking outside the box is essential for preparedness and an aspect of thinking outside of the box can be repurposing certain things depending on the situation and adapting to situations.
Here are a few ideas to try out.
Splint
If you have a shirt and can find a stick, you can make a splint for a broken arm or leg. Ensuring that your broken arm or leg doesn’t get into more damage is the most essential first step.
Mask
If you’re in a fire or an area with really dirty air – you need a mask. If you’re in a fire, you’ll need to get down to the lowest possible elevation regardless of whether you have a mask or not.
A good mask can be made with a bra or if need be, a shirt as a preliminary air filter.
Filter
If you need to filter some water, a shirt is better than nothing. A Lifestraw Go is our top recommendation for water filters, but if you are unprepared and don’t have a water filter, then filtering it through some clean clothes is better than nothing.
No guarantee that the water still isn’t toxic, but if you’re dehydrated and only have a few options, filtering it through will remove a lot of the dirt and things that have bacteria on it.
Knife Sharpening
If you have a leather belt, then you can use that to sharpen your knife. Alternatively, if you can find glass or rocks, that can also sharpen it if you don’t have a leather belt. Here’s a great video on how to sharpen a knife with a belt:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNpypQ-3IIo
Defense
In an emergency situation, you can take out a spare sock and fill it with some rocks to defend yourself.
If you’ve got some spare time on your hands right now and are currently not getting burglarized, you should check out this article on how to make homemade weapons.
Final Words
So, this is our survival clothing guide – choosing the proper clothing is essential – a brief run-through:
- Pick suitable materials like poly fibers, wool, and synthetics
- Poly fibers are the best outer layer, wool is the best mid layer, and synthetic is the best base layer.
- Layering is essential for survival and the best technique for regulating body temperature.
- Carry extras.
- When buying clothes, please take a deep look at them.
- You can use clothing for purposes other than intended, like self-healing, defense, and more.
We hope you learned something from this article, and good luck with your future endeavors.
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