Cold Weather Tips

When it rains, it pours. This last weekend, our friends at Without Limits hosted the Commonwealth Cup and it was wet. Very, very wet. 

Did she need to do it? Eh. Did she do it? Yeh! I hear Fagan is somewhere around Cape Horn now @UNC_Pleiades @Ultiworld pic.twitter.com/UiafQ8q5Im

— Hugo Sowder (@Hugosowder) February 24, 2019

Up in Canada, we have our fair share of cold weather ultimate, so we've decided to put a packing/survival list together to help you through those torrential weekends. Share this with your teammates to ensure you're playing your best all weekend long! 

This list only includes the extras that we believe are necessary for cold weather ultimate. We're assuming you all know what to bring to a regular tournament!

• TONS OF LAYERS! Isn't it obvious? But seriously, pack what you think you'll need, then add one more. Either you'll need it or a teammate will.
  
  
• Top: We recommend four layers: 1) a thermal but breathable long sleeve, 2) another long sleeve of your choosing, 3) a light fleece and 4) your team jersey.
  
  
• Bottom: We recommend at least three layers: 1) 3/4 or full-length compression pants, 2) team shorts and 3) sweatpants. If you've got rain paints, throw those on top of everything – they'll help a lot during warmup. 
  
  
• Socks: Bring too many pairs of socks. There's nothing worst than having to play in cold, wet socks. Merino or other technical ski and snowboard socks work great. We'd recommend packing one per game.
  
  
• Head: Cover up those ears! A toque, beanie or neckie will do the trick!
  
  
• Jacket: Bring stuff you'd play in the snow in: jacket, toque, scarf, etc. You won't regret it!
  
  
• Extras: If you've got warm footwear to change into between games, you'll be a happy camper. Winter-grade mittens for between points with heat warmers inside them are sure to warm your spirits, no matter what the temperature is. Finally, if you can get your hands on a big thermos with a warm drink in it, you're ready to take on the day!
  
  
• Know the signs of hypothermia: It's easy to disregard as 'oh, it's not that cold out', but as with heatstroke, it can happen quickly. Better to be proactive than reactive! 
  
  
• Tournament Directors: If you have an electrical hookup on site, bring a cheap kettle and some instant hot chocolate. Your volunteers will love you!

Thank you to Without Limits, G-Star, Sandra H, and Ultimate Canada for their help navigating freezing cold weather. If you like this type of article, you can read all of our Coaching and Mental Toughness posts HERE.