Why Not Wear Cotton Clothing on Cerro Chirripó and Other Mountains?
If you’re planning a hike on Cerro Chirripó, it’s essential to wear the right clothing. Many hikers believe that cotton clothing is the best option, but in reality, it can be dangerous during the hike. In this blog, we explain why you shouldn’t wear cotton clothing on Cerro Chirripó and other mountains.
The Lack of Breathability of Cotton
Cotton is not breathable, which means it doesn’t absorb sweat. This can make you feel uncomfortable and increase the risk of hypothermia if the temperature suddenly changes while climbing the mountain or upon reaching Base Crestones. For this reason, specialized polyester hiking clothing is a much better option.
The Moisture Retention of Cotton
Another reason cotton clothing is unsuitable for Cerro Chirripó is its ability to retain moisture. If you sweat, cotton clothing will get wet and stay damp for a long time. This can be dangerous in cold and humid weather, increasing the risk of hypothermia. On the other hand, hiking or technical clothing for walks is more resistant to moisture and dries quickly.
UV Protection
On Cerro Chirripó, sun exposure is intense due to the altitude. Cotton clothing does not provide adequate protection against UV rays, while proper polyester hiking clothing often includes built-in UV protection. It is crucial to protect your skin from harmful sun rays to avoid burns and other issues.
The Importance of Resistance and Durability
Furthermore, cotton clothing is prone to abrasion and can tear easily. On the other hand, polyester or similar hiking clothing is resistant to abrasion and durable, making it a better choice for the mountains.
To conclude, it is essential to choose the right clothing for a safe and comfortable hike on Cerro Chirripó. Cotton clothing is not a good option due to its lack of breathability, moisture retention, lack of UV protection, and lack of resistance and durability. Instead, polyester clothing is a safer option, as it is a synthetic material commonly used in hiking apparel. It is also used in other outdoor sports due to its durability, water resistance, and quick-drying properties. Be sure to choose the right clothing for your next hike on Cerro Chirripó and enjoy the nature and its magic.
On the other hand, here is a video with more recommendations for climbing Chirripó that will be very helpful. We also invite you to check out our blog on What to Bring to Chirripó?
