Since I was a kid, I’ve always had a sensitive skin.
I couldn’t go to the swimming pool without developing a rash from the chlorinated water. I went through spouts of eczema and allergic reactions most of my life. I cannot wear any synthetic fabric for too long and I can definitely not have polyester on my skin when involved in intense physical activity. As I’ve learned to avoid those situations altogether, it has never been a major problem for me. But it eventually changed, when I moved to Alaska and felt compelled to take on the outdoors through various sports.
When I learned about layering, I found that the recommendations for quick drying clothing always came back to a blend of polyesters. Cotton was warmer but absorbed moisture like a sponge, becoming cold and heavy. So here I was, stuck in between two options that were far from ideal, one being already out of the question.
