Wearing for the Weather

Note: The following information is based on recommendations from the National Association for Search and Rescue's (NASAR) Fundamentals of Search and Rescue 2nd Edition handbook.

Learning Objectives

Upon completing this module, responders should be able to:

Material Properties: Differentiate between clothing materials (wool, synthetics, and cotton) and understand fabric resistance ratings (waterproof, water-repellent, and water-resistant).
Layering System: Explain the three-layer clothing system and apply NASAR’s "BUBU" criteria for operational attire.
Foot Care & Footwear: Implement field foot-care protocols to prevent blisters, hot spots, and environmental injuries.
Thermoregulation & Field Tips: Apply field practices to regulate core body temperature, manage sweat, and select proper clothing for extreme weather.

Selecting appropriate clothing materials is critical for thermal efficiency and weather protection during field deployments.

Material Characteristics

Wool: Maintains insulation even when wet because naturally curly fibers trap air pockets, while natural lanolin wax repels surface moisture.
Synthetics (Polyester/Nylon): Lightweight, durable, and hydrophobic; excels at wicking moisture away from skin and drying rapidly.
Cotton (Avoid): Absorbs and retains large amounts of moisture, losing all insulative value when wet and severely increasing hypothermia and chafing risks.

Fabric Water Ratings

Waterproof: Impermeable to water, even under mechanical pressure (e.g., severe storm shells, heavy pack strap pressure).
Water-Repellent: Sheds surface moisture not under pressure; heavy rain will eventually penetrate the weave.
Water-Resistant: Temporarily resists moisture under light pressure but is not designed for sustained exposure.

Responders maintain core body temperature by adjusting a modular three-layer clothing system based on activity levels and climate.

The Layering System

Wicking / Base Layer: Worn directly against the skin to move sweat and moisture away from the body. Fits snugly without restricting circulation or creating uncomfortable wrinkles under pack straps.
Insulating Layer: Worn over the wicking layer to trap body heat. Wearing multiple thin insulating layers is far superior to wearing a single thick, bulky garment.
Protective / Outer Layer (Shell): Shields against wind, rain, and snow while allowing internal moisture vapor to escape.

NASAR's "BUBU" Criteria

Field clothing for Search and Rescue should meet four core standards:

B - Big: Sized generously to allow additional insulation layers underneath.
U - Unconstricting: Fits loosely around joints, wrists, and ankles to ensure proper blood flow and movement.
B - Baggy: Provides complete freedom of movement without binding.
U - Ugly: Prioritizes high visibility (bright safety colors and reflective elements) and functional performance over fashion.

Foot injuries can quickly disable a searcher. NASAR recommends strict foot care protocols during field deployments:

Daily Inspection & Cleanliness: Examine and clean feet thoroughly at the end of each operational day. Always wear clean, dry socks (consider a two-sock system for field work).
Immediate Hot Spot Care: Treat "hot spots" (reddened, tender skin caused by friction) immediately before they develop into debilitating blisters.
Fit & Lacing: Ensure footwear is professionally fitted. Tighten laces on inclines and descents to prevent foot movement inside the boot; loosen slightly on flat terrain.
Moisture Management: Keep feet dry. Air-dry feet during rest breaks, but avoid soaking or washing them mid-day until operations conclude.
Toenail Maintenance: Keep toenails trimmed neatly, but not too short, to prevent pressure injuries.

Headwear Regulation: A significant amount of heat is regulated through the head—"When your feet are cold, put on a hat."
Sweat Control: Prevent overheating and perspiration buildup. Remove layers or slow your pace before sweating heavily; replace damp clothing immediately.
Color Selection: Wear high-visibility, light-colored clothing in warm conditions to reflect solar heat; use darker high-vis garments in cold environments to absorb radiant heat.
Garment Cleanliness: Clean clothes breathe properly. Dirt and oils clog fabric pores, inhibiting ventilation and trapping cold moisture against the skin.
Sub-Zero Field Drying: In freezing conditions, dry damp gear by allowing moisture to freeze on the fabric, then beating the ice crystals off the material.