Staying Dry and Comfortable While Summer Geocaching
This weekend, in addition to a too-close-for-comfort tornado touchdown near our house, the hot, humid summer weather returned to Minnesota with a vengance. Rains have been extremely heavy, and flash flooding, common. The warm weather combined with the heavy rains makes the need for proper outer wear more important.
The key to outdoor gear is comfort. You want your gear to protect you, but you don’t want to be uncomfortable. Bring on the Marmot Mica Jacket. It is extremely lightweight, a definite plus when temperatures soar into the uncomfortable range. You certainly don’t want to be wearing something heavy during those hot and sticky geocaching adventures.
The jacket is also breathable. This is key for me. You can easily find outdoor gear that is waterproof. The inexpensive fishing suits keep you dry, but there are not breathable at all. The result: damp clothing despite the protection. This is certainly not the goal. Breathable plus waterproof is ideal.
Gore-Tex has always been a great option. In fact, I don’t purchase boots or outer wear unless it is Gore-Tex. Marmot offers another option for those looking for quality outdoor wear with its own proprietary material that like Gore-Tex is breathable and waterproof. If you’ve been on the trail during the summer, you realize the value.
I realized the value of performance clothing first when we engaged in winter geocaching. During the winter months, staying dry is even more critical. I quickly learned that investing in clothing designed for and by people who enjoy the outdoors makes for a more enjoyable outdoor experience. So it is with summer clothing as well.
The importance of staying dry becomes apparent quickly during the summer months. Feeling hot and sticky while out on the trail is no fun, albeit not with the same safety concerns as during winter months. Yet, that feeling of discomfort can easily ruin a day out.
My advice to those wanting to enjoy a day out on the trail: check the weather. Prepare for sudden changes in weather. Remember, that comfort is essential for a good outing. Selecting outer wear that both protects you and keeps your comfortable makes for smart planning and good use of your geo-sense.
