As Autumn gives way to Winter, the cold factor starts to become much more prominent and noticeable. For Chicago, November is snow free but not necessarily frost free. Even into the months of December, the truly Arctic weather doesn't hit the Midwest until the very end. The time before the bitter cold arrives is usually a busy one. There are holiday decorations to install. Football games to enjoy. Even outdoor festivals, like Chicago's
Christkindlmarket, to enjoy.
Many of these activities can be a challenge to enjoy. The weather can be sunny or overcast. Warm and 50 or Cold and 35. While a rain shower will kill most of your outdoor plans, the cold shouldn't be a big deterrent. Smart layering will keep you looking sharp, feeling comfortable and toasty warm. A down vest or jacket is the perfect outer layer for this time of year's fun, weekend activities.
What is down? Down feathers are the soft, lightweight feathers found next to a bird's skin and under the slick, aerodynamic feathers of the outside. Most down used in clothing is Goose. Down has incredible insulation properties and is extremely lightweight. Wrapped in a nylon shell, it provides a warm insulated layer with a water-resistant and wind-resistant shell. Down's quality is measured in Fillpower. Fillpower is defined as the number of cubic inches displaced by one ounce of down. The resulting number is typically between 450-900. The higher the number, the better the quality and the warmer the garment will be.
Layered over a thick, wool sweater or flannel shirt, the down vest keeps your body core warm while leaving your arms free to rake some leaves or chop some wood. It's also a great option on days that are cool but require something less than a parka. The down vest can be had by any of retailers. I like basic black but a bright color is a great option if you plan on using it in the woods and need something hi-visibility.
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