How do you protect yourself from the cold?

With the cold weather fast approaching and temperatures dropping, it's high time to cover up with some warm clothes from PARADE. The cold weather affects some sectors more than others, such as construction, landscaping and finishing works... Parade has a selection of equipment specially adapted to winter weather conditions.

POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF THE COLD

For people working outdoors, the cold can pose risks of varying degrees to their health. They may be exposed to:

- Increased fatigue and loss of dexterity
- Muscle tension
- Frostbite and numbness of the limbs
- Malaise and fever

To avoid being exposed to these risks, Parade advises you on the actions to take.

SOLUTIONS AGAINST THE COLD

Clothes

One of the most effective solutions is the onion technique. This technique involves wearing layers in a precise order. The choice of fabric is very important! The wrong choice could have the opposite effect to that intended. Be careful, as an excessive accumulation of fabric could get in the way of your work and even increase your risk of accidents. That's why Parade recommends 3 layers:

- The first layer is the breathable layer closest to your skin. Choose a breathable fabric that wicks away perspiration and dries quickly so it doesn’t trap moisture. Water eliminates heat 25 times faster than dry air, so keeping the first layer dry is essential. When it comes to fabrics for this first layer, avoid cotton, which won't wick away moisture and will take a long time to dry. Choose materials such as polyester or acrylic.

- The second layer is the insulating layer. The purpose of this intermediate layer is to trap air and retain body heat. Opt for insulating materials such as fleece or down.

- The third layer is the protective layer. Its role is to cope with all external elements: wind, rain, cold or snow. Go for waterproof, breathable clothing.

Don't forget to protect the extremities of your body: your head, hands and feet.

Safety shoes

In terms of footwear, PARADE recommends you wear S3 safety shoes*. S3 safety shoes have the "WRU" label, i.e. their uppers are made of water-repellent materials. They protect your feet from water and moisture and keep them warm. An S1P** safety shoe that does not have the "WRU" label could allow air and moisture through its seams. And choose CI (Insulation Against Cold) label safety footwear, which guarantees resistance to cold rising through the floor. Choose the NAGARA model in particular.

Our wide range of S3 safety shoes includes a range with faux fur lining. As well as being comfortable, these synthetic-lined safety shoes keep your feet warm. In this range you will find NARVIX, SIROKA and NORDIK, as well as NORWAY.

Finally, when temperatures drop, we recommend high or low ankle boots. These help you retain more heat around your ankles and inside your shoes.

S3*: damp and high-risk floors

**S1P: dry zone and high-risk floors

CHECK OUT THE PARADE SELECTION

The men's selection starts with the AMAZY beanie hat (1). Then, in order, PARADE has the OYABE t-shirt (2), as the first layer, then the long-sleeved OVERNO t-shirt (3) and finally the OBERA down jacket (4). For bottoms, BRASOV work trousers (5)are ideal. To finish with your feet, we recommend SKATER safety shoes (6).

For the women's selection, the cold air won’t get in with this snood. The same onion technique applies for women, starting with the OLDA t-shirt (2), followed by the OISON fleece (3). Finally, add a layer of protection with PARADE’s OMESSA parka (4). For bottoms, BOSTON trousers (5) are ideal. And finally, BRAZZA (6) safety shoes.

ADVICE FROM PARADE

- As temperatures fluctuate, it's important to know what to do when your body warms up.

- As socks can be a source of moisture, Parade recommends keeping a spare pair with you. Keeping your feet dry will prevent your body from losing too much thermal energy.

- For people working on their knees, think of knee pads to avoid areas of contact with the cold. Try our ANKARO knee pads for men and AKABA knee pads for women.

With all the bad weather in winter, it's all the more important to look after your safety shoes. Read our article about how to look after your footwear.