Chilly weather checklist
for the softball spectator
The weather forecast for this weekend's home opener on the Wesley College campus has fluctuated repeatedly in the past few days from first pitch predictions of a very cold 34 degrees up to a warmer 48 degrees.
Check here for the latest AccuWeather.com forecast as we near the opening date: Sunday, February 22, doubleheader, 1:00 & 3:00 PM, Gallaudet Bison vs Wesley Wolverines on Reynolds duPont Softball Field, Dover.
If you plan to attend, you might want to throw a few extra pieces of cold weather gear in the car. It might prove useful for games well beyond this weekend, too.
A quick cold weather SOFTBALL FAN checklist...
√ WARM HANDS: Mittens work better than gloves, because they can share body heat & hand-warmers fit more easily inside them.
√ HAND-WARMERS: Inexpensive and can last for hours. If you have no gloves, keep hands clutched to hand-warmers inside your pockets.
√ HOODED SWEAT OR WARM HAT: Most body heat is lost through the top of the head. You might need more than a baseball cap!
√ LAYERED CLOTHING: Instead of the last layer, focus on the first layer closest to your skin. Avoid cotton, because it retains moisture, which attracts the cold. Wool is excellent first layer, but may irritate skin. Polypropylene (e.g. Under Armour) can be expensive, but works the best.
√ LOOSE FITTING CLOTHING: second and third layers, like sweaters or coats, not be so tight as to hinder good insulation.
√ PROTECTION FROM RAIN: don't forget an umbrella and rain jacket.
√ FOOTWEAR: Hiking boots best, especially if waterproof to block any moisture
√ SOCKS: ideal is two layers with thin fabric covered by wool socks.
√ WARM FOOD: pack a thermos with hot chocolate, soup, or noodles.
√ FOLDING CHAIR AND BLANKET. The home field's steel stands can be extra cold seat and they are set up behind third base where gusts of wind can make matters worse. A folding chair ensures a portable seat for a better view, while watching the game more comfortably. A blanket might be wise for those who particularly like it warmer.