On Wednesday March 7, 2012, the YMCA Academy students who will be participating on the Youth Exchange Canada program to Ouje-Bougoumou, Quebec trekked to Mountain Equipment Coop, MEC for short, for a mini workshop on how to stay dry and warm in colder weather climates.  The workshop was lead by one of MEC’s super-employees, Darryl Fraser, an avid outdoor photographer who knows first hand what it takes to stay dry and warm in cold climates.

During our visit Darryl discussed the importance of layering in cold climates.  We learned about the importance of moisture control with the base layer so that the skin stays dry, the insulation the mid layer provides, and the many types of outer layers from waterproof-breathables to rain-wear and soft shells.  It was especially interesting to learn about the amazing properties of Merino wool such as being able to absorb three times its weight in moisture and being very “stink” resistant.

Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!

Visit the Youth Exchanges Canada Website

Visit the Mountain Equipment Co-op Website

Mar. 8th, 2012 – YEC Cold Weather Workshop