In this post, we are going to introduce you to the #RecreateResponsibly consortium. A spectacular who’s who of the outdoor industry, #RecreateResponsibly is a  nonprofit organization chartered to help people make good decisions in getting into the outdoors while regarding the significant risks of group activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Including such groups as the National Park Service, The Wilderness Medical Society, NOLS, The North Face and  Musa Masala, #RecreateResponsibly is creating some great content for everyone, along with some wonderful partnerships.

So here we go, in tandem with our series on hypothermia and cold injuries, take a look at this awesome chart for traveling in the winter months or any cold area. Use it as your pre-trip checklist.

As a celebration of Black History Month, the California Recreate Responsibly Coalition has put together this great program featuring two webinars, check it out here, and register for their upcoming event here.

Here, for our tips for the week, are three great spots to layer up.

Always bring that belay jacket or your solid warm layer when you are out and there is a chance for weather changes.

1. Hey here is our friend Brendan Barrett, who you may recall from a gentleman’s guide on what to bring. Here Brendan is taking a tiny little break on Mt. Shasta. Notice they’ve all put warming layers on, while the climbers behind them are moving up with just their fleece layers. Good thinking guys. Stay warm on those rest breaks!

2. Here on Island Peak in Nepal, Super Phula Sherpa took this great photo of two issues often found in Himalayan climbing: the belay and waiting your turn. Both of these can cause considerable heat loss if they go on for any length of time. They all are layered up and with gloves on. Heat loss can lead to a lack of coordination that could be a big problem, especially on ladders up and over crevasses.

3. These trekkers in the lower Khumbu icefall at Mt. Everest look pretty happy out on the ice as the sun is on them. There, the temperature can easily get to the 50s F. or more! But as soon as that sun goes behind a cloud or below the mountains, it’s deep freeze. Note the smart trekkers who have day packs on. You can bet there are extra layers inside! Smart thinking. Have your plan, be ready for the environment and stay in your skill level. Then always be ready for change. Jam Jam!!