There’s a grand stretch in the evenings now BUT have you checked the forecast? There’s a cold snap on the way; weather experts have warned that the Beast from the East is on its way back to Ireland in a potential repeat of the sensation in 2018.
If you only go outdoors in Ireland when the weather is warm, you’ll almost never get out. At Portwest – The Outdoor Shop our advice is, although you can’t change the weather, you can do something about keeping warm when the temperatures drop.
Anyone who has spent time outdoors in Ireland during March will know that St. Patrick’s Day has a reputation for cold, wet weather. With this reported unseasonably cold snap approaching we now need to extend our winter wardrobe as February spills into March.
Even though we can’t change the weather, you can choose to be prepared.
We’re sure you’ve heard the saying;
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”
And it’s true. You can be toasty in Ireland in all weather and all year round.
We get it….you love being outdoors but you HATE feeling cold; so we’ve put this list together to help you get outside without feeling the bitter chill.
5 Ways to Survive ‘The Beast From The East’ In Ireland
1. Keep Active
You might think this is a no-brainer but hear us out. Keeping active is the most efficient way to keep warm. When you move, your muscles contract and when your muscles contract you generate heat. Have you noticed your body shivering when you’re cold? That’s because your muscles are contracting to try and warm you up.
Ireland is a treasure trail of ancient forests and rolling hills to explore. Not to mention our coastline of over 3,100 km. 62% of people surveyed for the latest CSO statistics report the beach / coastline as their outdoor area of choice to visit.
The point is, it doesn’t matter what activity you do as long as you enjoy doing it.
2. Layer Up
Do you remember that episode of Friends, where Joey is wearing all of Chandler’s clothes? Well, here’s an easy way to keep warm without wearing everything you own. If you love exploring nature but hate feeling cold, layers are a game changer. The trick is to wear breathable layers that draw moisture away from your body. The ideal base layer and mid layer material is merino. Merino wool is finer than other wool fibres. It’s naturally breathable, insulating and odour resistant. Merino will make it easier for you to keep warm in any weather. Make sure to wear a waterproof outer layer to keep you dry.
3. Warm Cuppa
Is there anything more comforting and satisfying than sitting at the summit with your hands wrapped around a hot cup of tea?
We encourage sustainability and encourage you to make your favourite hot drink at home before heading outdoors. All you need is an insulated flask that doubles up as a cup (or two). Hot drinks not only keep you hydrated but boost your mood out on the trails.
Your pocket and your planet will thank you for it.
4. Fingers & Toes
Whether you’re strolling with a coffee or hiking in the hills, is there anything worse than wet feet?
There’s life before and life after merino wool socks. The best part? They’re an affordable way to keep your feet warm even when your footwear gets wet.
What if you could get fresh air without losing your feeling in your fingers?
Now, you do your best to be present and, in the moment, but sometimes you need to take out your phone when you’re in nature. Your Instagram photo isn’t going to take itself. What if you could take a photo without having to remove your gloves? If you are someone who suffers from Raynauds, you need to wear touch gloves almost all year round. Enjoy listening to a podcast while strolling through the trails of the great outdoors and discover the comfort of being able to change your podcast without taking off your gloves.
5. Head’s Up
You lose heat through your head and what better way to keep warm than a hat and a neck warmer.
When you’re cold, you hunch your shoulders up to your ears and carry the tension in your body. You’ll know the wind chill in Ireland can cut deep out on the rolling hills. Wearing a neck warmer and a hat will ensure you can stay outside for as long as you like.
And here’s the thing, if you live in Ireland you’ll literally wear your jacket from theoutdoorshop.ie every day. You’ll have it for years. Talk about sustainability.
So…what are you waiting for? We’ve given you 5 Ways to Survive ‘The Beast From The East’ In Ireland.
The beast might be on its way, but nature is still calling. Will you answer?
