A handy guide to dressing for Michigan weather

Szumko's Prepared Apparel - a handy reference guide for dressing appropriately for Michigan weather.

Stefan Szumko | Contributor

I've been going outside to play in Michigan weather for almost four decades. As the saying goes, "If you don't like the weather, wait 15-minutes, it will change." For over half my life, I've been sharing my knowledge of dressing appropriately with young people.

A few years ago, I decided that instead of nagging my son, Alex, on what to wear when he dressed for school or headed outside to play, I would provide him with a handy reference chart and empower him to ensure that he would be comfortable in his outdoor excursions. So I created the "Szumko's Prepared Apparel" graphic reference chart.

Each fall, once the weather starts to become chilly, I have Alex look at the outdoor thermometer, refer to the chart, and get ready to head out to school or to play. We have several hats, gaiters, and gloves/mittens at home in case they are misplaced or become too wet to wear.

Although the forecast might suggest that the temperature will warm, I insist that he at least bring the appropriate clothing with him, stating, "If you've got it with you, you can put it on if you need it. If you don't have it, then you might have to suffer."

This chart was developed after several years when I spent most of my time outside, teaching outdoor environmental education or maintaining my house. People of all ages can stay outside indefinitely if they are prepared for poor weather. Another adage states, "There is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing."

So once the weather takes a turn for the worse, forget being fashionable and focus on keeping comfortable. Stay warm and dry. In wet weather, the trick is to stay dry. Wet clothing draws body heat out. So, be sure to insist upon wearing a water-repellent outer layer. Unzip or take off your gloves/mittens followed by your gaiter/scarf and hat to regulate your body heat if you start to sweat.

At the very least, to keep you and your kiddos warm in winter, wear a hat. Since heat rises, our heads and necks act like chimneys, allowing body heat to escape. Plus, if you can keep your brain warm, it tends to work better.

Graphic Caption: Szumko's Prepared Apparel - a handy reference for appropriate gear to survive Michigan weather.

Stefan Szumko is a middle school science teacher by trade, outdoor environmental educator by calling and a homedaddy by choice. He can be reached at slugwhisperer@gmail.com.