With the arrival of periods of more intense cold, many Portuguese continue to resort to jeans in their daily lives, a common piece of clothing that is not always the most appropriate when temperatures drop sharply, especially in wind, rain or humidity, according to the lifestyle website Cherrie Moraga.
Winter has been marked by episodes of significant cold in several regions of the country, leading to increased care with clothing, especially in terms of coats, scarves and gloves. Yet leg protection often continues to be undervalued.
Jeans remain one of the most worn pieces throughout the year, regardless of the weather conditions. The perception of resistance and thickness of the fabric leads many to believe that they offer sufficient protection against the cold.
Why jeans fail in intense cold
Denim is mostly made of cotton, a material that has clear limitations in cold and humid environments. One of the main characteristics of cotton is its ability to absorb and retain moisture.
When exposed to rain, snow or even the body’s natural perspiration, the fabric tends to keep moisture close to the skin. Under these conditions, the thermal insulation capacity decreases significantly, according to the same source.
Additionally, denim does not create enough air pockets to retain heat, unlike technical fabrics used in winter clothing. The combination of humidity and wind facilitates the loss of body heat.
The impact of cold on the legs and body
Prolonged exposure to cold on the legs can have effects on the body’s thermal balance. To preserve core temperature, the body reduces blood flow to the extremities. This mechanism can result in a greater feeling of cold, general discomfort and tiredness at the end of the day, even after returning to warm environments.
Alternatives used in harsher climates
In countries where intense cold is frequent, the exclusive use of jeans in winter is generally avoided, as the approach involves using several layers of clothing, adapted to the weather conditions.
According to , fabrics designed to wick moisture away from the skin and retain heat are seen as more effective in low temperature contexts. The presence of an insulating layer between the body and the outside makes a significant difference in thermal comfort.
There are currently urban clothing options designed for winter, with a discreet appearance, but with linings and materials more suited to the cold.
A common habit that deserves to be rethought
Wearing jeans all year round has become an automatic habit for many, regardless of the weather forecast. This choice is often made out of convenience or routine.
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