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The wind can rob you of heat in more than one way. We often discuss heat loss as due to several methods, such as conduction, convection, radiation, and transfer of energy by phase change (evaporation). The other less known way that we get cold is because wind compresses our insulation making it less efficient.

Since cooling by conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation are fairly well known subjects, we will review them only briefly in this study. The main purpose of this report is to discuss the other forms of cooling caused by the compression of insulation during high winds.

ARTICLE OUTLINE

  • Introduction
  • Cooling by conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation
  • Cooling caused by compression of insulation
  • Thermal conductivity versus insulation value
  • Wind pressure
  • Loft versus density
  • How much do different insulations compress in the wind
  • Discussion of percent insulation loss
    • What does this mean
    • Warmth for the ounce
    • Warmth for the buck
    • Gloves, mittens, and sleeping bag bottoms
  • What can we do to reduce wind compression?
    • Extra insulation
    • Storm shell
    • Rain shells and wind shells
    • Fleece or wool
  • Conclusions
  • Recommendations

# WORDS: 4110
# PHOTOS: 10

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