Millions of Americans are being advised to wear layers if they need to venture outside as a severe and fatal cold front moves through the country. The city of Minneapolis is experiencing particularly harsh weather conditions.

In locations where cold temperatures are uncommon, this advice can be confusing. What does “layering up” mean? Is it the same as simply wearing a coat? Can it be done incorrectly?

Residents of Minnesota, a state that is well-versed in dealing with cold weather, have valuable knowledge to impart.

Layering refers to the practice of putting on several articles of clothing in order to maintain a comfortable body temperature in chilly conditions. This technique works by creating pockets of air between each layer, providing better insulation than simply wearing a single, bulky jacket. Additionally, layering helps to wick away sweat and moisture from the skin, keeping you dry and warm.

According to Claire Wilson, the executive director of The Loppet Foundation, a non-profit organization in Minneapolis that advocates for winter sports and events, regardless of the temperature, you will likely sweat when you venture outside and begin to exercise.

She explained that by wearing the appropriate layers, you can effectively remove sweat from your body. The concept is to add a layer when feeling cold, and remove a layer when feeling hot or wet.

Wilson expressed her enjoyment of shopping at thrift stores for affordable layers.

“Simply search for items that are not made of cotton,” she stated.

According to Wilson, cotton has a high moisture absorption rate which causes it to remain damp for a longer period of time. This means that if you walk in the snow, your cotton socks can become wet inside your boots or shoes, and wearing a cotton shirt under your jacket can also lead to it becoming damp from sweat. Since cotton takes a while to dry, this can result in feeling colder, Wilson mentioned.

According to her, opt for wool socks and materials such as fleece, polyester, or polypropylene. You can also reuse old vests and shirts, which are effective in keeping your body warm. These items may already be in your wardrobe, so layering up doesn’t have to be expensive.

Wilson suggests beginning with a foundational layer, followed by a middle layer, and finally an outer layer.

According to Wilson, the layer closest to your skin is known as the base layer and it plays a crucial role in wicking away moisture. It is recommended to choose polyester fabric over cotton for this purpose. Next, add a mid layer such as a vest or shirt to provide warmth to your core. Some individuals may opt to wear multiple mid layers. Lastly, Wilson suggests wearing a traditional winter jacket that offers wind protection and insulation.

Frostbite is a painful condition where skin freezes, leading to reduced blood flow and damage to tissue. It can occur in a matter of minutes in cold temperatures if skin is not properly protected.

Dr. James Miner, chief of emergency medicine at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, stated that they frequently encounter individuals with frostbite on their feet and hands despite wearing shoes and gloves.

Signs of this condition may include the formation of blisters on the skin due to damage, as well as bruising and swelling. If not treated correctly, frostbite can potentially lead to the amputation of a limb.

According to Miner, the hospital encounters approximately twelve frostbite cases per day when temperatures are close to zero (equivalent to minus 18 degrees Celsius).

Layering clothing can help prevent frostbite by creating a barrier of air between each layer of fabric, according to Miner. This method is more successful than just wearing a heavy coat because the layers act as a barrier, preventing moisture from outside or from your body from traveling long distances by getting trapped in the air between each layer.

The Miner suggests using a waterproof outer layer, such as a raincoat, to ensure the lower layers stay dry.

According to Toni Hauser, who oversees emergency preparedness and response for the Minneapolis Health Department, children usually need an additional layer of clothing compared to adults. Hauser also recommends storing extra clothing or blankets in your vehicle in case of emergencies such as running out of gas or experiencing car trouble and having to be outdoors.

The city of Minneapolis recommends in a blog post to “Cover Your Bum (CYB)!” as a way to stay warm during cold weather. This means wearing a winter jacket that extends past your hips and falls closer to your knees.

The article suggests staying warm by wearing fleece-lined leggings or long underwear under your pants. Winter boots and woolen socks can also provide warmth. To protect your hands and prevent dry skin, consider wearing fur-lined gloves or mittens. And don’t forget to keep your ears warm with ear muffs or a hat.

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Trisha Ahmed is a member of the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative, serving as a corps member. The program, Report for America, is a non-profit national service that deploys journalists to local newsrooms to cover neglected topics. You can track her on X, previously known as Twitter, with the handle @TrishaAhmed15.