For Many, Weather Armor Includes Wicking Fabrics

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The purpose of the inner layer is to draw the sweat away from the skin to the next layers, which makes the wearer feel warmer and more comfortable. The transfer of moisture happens due to capillary action. This is sometimes called wicking, and thus the used materials are called wicking materials.
The purpose of the inner layer is to draw the sweat away from the skin to the next layers, which makes the wearer feel warmer and more comfortable. The transfer of moisture happens due to capillary action. This is sometimes called wicking, and thus the used materials are called wicking materials.

NEW YORK - Doing battle with the winter elements? After all, going from the warm house out into the cold air to the hot office and then dashing back outside can be tough not to mention a temperature-fluctuating airplane or subway car.

Maybe you're one of the many adding a wicking shirt to your armor.

The functional under layer that over the last few years has become a favorite of skiers, hikers, runners and other athletes is finding new fans in urbanites, who find a fabric that draws out perspiration, serves as insulation from wind and keeps body temperature stable has purposes beyond the outdoors. It complements smooth, fitted silhouettes that fit nicely under other things, from a man's button-down shirt to a ladies' cashmere turtleneck.

``Research today shows that consumers will make apparel purchases based upon look, need and performance,'' says Tom Julian, a New York-based trend and retail analyst. ``I believe that `products that perform' has been a marketing mantra ever since we saw smart-care clothes come to life as a result of casualization. I think the economy has made it inevitable that apparel has to do more than look nice, be on-trend.''

``I have found that men like to use these shirts as layering for travel perfect on the plane to keep one comfortable but warm and should the heat become an issue they allow for perspiration Julian says

They have additional life because they go under weekend clothes or be worn as workout wear, he adds, and they're very malleable in a suitcase. APAssociated Press text, photo and/or graphic material shall not be published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium. Neither these AP Materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and non-commercial use. The AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing.

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