dry cold vs humid cold

Championisme authors

2 min read

·

11-10-2024

31

0

Share

Dry Cold vs. Humid Cold: Which is Worse?

Feeling the chill in the air? It's that time of year again when we start to feel the effects of cold weather. But did you know that cold weather isn't always the same? There's a big difference between dry cold and humid cold, and understanding this difference can help you dress for the weather and stay warm and comfortable.

What's the difference?

The key factor differentiating dry and humid cold is humidity. Dry cold, common in arid climates, has low humidity, meaning there's less moisture in the air. Humid cold, prevalent in coastal areas and regions with high precipitation, has high humidity, indicating a higher concentration of moisture in the air.

Dry Cold: The Deceptive Chill

Dry cold can be deceivingly cold. This is because our bodies lose heat more rapidly in dry air ([1]). With less moisture to absorb and retain heat, our bodies cool down faster. The result? We might feel colder than we would in humid conditions even if the temperature is the same.

Here's why dry cold is deceiving:

• Wind chill: Dry air allows wind to carry away heat more effectively, making us feel even colder than the actual temperature. ([2])
• Low humidity: This reduces the body's natural ability to insulate itself with a layer of moisture, further accelerating heat loss.

Humid Cold: The Heavy Weight

Humid cold, on the other hand, feels heavier and more oppressive. This is because the moisture in the air makes it harder for our bodies to cool down ([1]). We sweat less, and the moisture clings to our skin, making us feel clammy and uncomfortable.

Here's why humid cold feels heavier:

• Moisture saturation: The high humidity makes it difficult for our sweat to evaporate, which is our body's natural cooling mechanism.
• Claustrophobic feeling: The increased moisture in the air can create a feeling of being "trapped" or suffocated, making the cold feel more intense.

How to stay warm in different types of cold:

• Dry cold:
  • Layer up: Wear several thin layers of clothing instead of one thick layer. This allows for better insulation and heat retention.
  • Choose breathable fabrics: Materials like wool and fleece trap air, providing excellent insulation.
  • Protect exposed skin: Wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf to prevent heat loss from your head, hands, and neck.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate cold symptoms.
• Humid cold:
  • Wear moisture-wicking clothing: Fabrics that draw moisture away from your skin, like synthetic materials or merino wool, will help you stay dry and comfortable.
  • Avoid cotton: Cotton absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry, which can lead to chills and discomfort.
  • Take breaks indoors: Find shelter indoors to allow your body to warm up and re-hydrate.

Beyond the Temperature:

While the type of cold can influence our perception of how cold it is, remember that individual factors like body mass, metabolism, and overall health also play a role in cold tolerance.

The bottom line:

Both dry cold and humid cold present unique challenges. Understanding the difference between them and how to adjust your clothing and behavior accordingly can help you stay warm and comfortable during the colder months.

References

[1] "The impact of humidity on human thermal comfort in cold environments" by J. de Dear, A.P. Gagge, and E. Arens. Indoor Air, Volume 13, Issue 2, April 2004, Pages 102-109. [2] "Wind Chill and Human Comfort" by G.P. Gunn and B.W. Warkentin. Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology, Volume 37, Issue 7, July 1998, Pages 788-800.