The perfect winter layering strategy: tips from the National Weather Service

EL PASO, Texas -- As temperatures decrease in the Borderland, wearing the right clothing outside becomes even more important.

Jason Laney, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service of El Paso, said warmth travels towards cold objects, meaning exposed skin can lead to losing body heat and a lowered body temperature. That can lead to hypothermia.

"In order to stay warm in the winter, we actually really rely on our own body heat," Laney said. "That's why we talk about dressing in layers. Now you may think the thicker the clothing the warmer you're going to be, but that's not really the case."

Laney said the perfect layering strategy comes down to three distinct layers. The first should be a thin thermal layer that can wick away moisture. The second, a looser middle layer, will cushion heat inside. The final outer layer should be wind and water resistant.

"Most of the times we'll put on a nice thermal-type coat that will keep our mid-section warm, but a lot of heat escapes from our head," Laney said. "So wearing hats is very important and also covering the hands."

Laney says gloves can be helpful, but mittens work even more effectively.