As the summer heat approaches, it’s natural to wonder how to beat the heat with the right choice of clothing. Factors such as color, fabric, and style can influence how hot we feel. Let’s explore the science behind choosing the right colors to stay cool in the sun!
1 Do Light Colors Keep Us Cool?
Do light colors actually keep us cool?
A fascinating experiment was conducted to answer this question. Three shirts, white, red, and black, were left outside in the sun at a temperature of 32°C. Surprisingly, the temperatures recorded on the shirts were 37.1°C for the white shirt, 36.5°C for the red shirt, and 36.9°C for the black shirt. This indicates that there isn’t a significant difference in temperature between wearing light or dark colors.
However, light-colored clothing has a higher reflectivity, which means it bounces sunlight away from the body. On the flip side, light colors are less effective at absorbing and releasing heat, which can lead to increased perspiration.
2 Does Wearing Black Absorb More Heat?
Does wearing black absorb more heat from the sun?
Referring back to the experiment, we can see that dark-colored clothing does not necessarily lead to higher body temperatures. However, darker colors absorb more heat, giving a sensation of sunburn.
While dark colors may make us feel hotter, they facilitate better absorption and release of heat, resulting in less perspiration.
3 What Color Should We Wear in the Sun?
So, what’s the verdict on color choice for hot days?
Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight effectively, preventing it from reaching your skin. However, the downside is that it blocks heat from escaping your body, leading to a build-up of heat.
On the other hand, dark-colored clothing allows sunlight to reach your body, but it also enables your body heat to escape. Additionally, darker colors provide better protection against UV rays when wet with sweat.
Ultimately, both light and dark colors have their pros and cons, so feel free to choose any color you like! Instead, focus on choosing breathable, loose-fitting, and comfortable clothing to stay cool in the heat.
4 Some Tips for Choosing Clothing on Hot Days
Some tips to keep in mind when choosing your outfit on hot days.
Experts recommend wearing thicker clothing when going out in the sun to block UV rays and absorb sweat. Opt for breathable fabrics that wick away moisture, and steer clear of fabrics like sponge and nylon blends, which can feel suffocating.
Now you know the science behind choosing the right colors to stay cool! Remember to opt for comfortable and breathable clothing, regardless of color, to beat the heat this summer.
How to Dress Your Baby Appropriately During the Summer
With the summer temperatures intensifying, it can be difficult to keep babies safe and comfortable. Fortunately, there are tips and strategies that parents can use to ensure the health and well-being of their newborns while also keeping them cool. In this article, we discuss how to appropriately dress babies for the summer months.