Advice about route pls?

[ScooterB]

I am starting my Camino in early April and had been aiming for the Camino Frances, however, all my reading on this Forum has me concerned about being cold. I get cold easily and don't produce much body heat for whatever reason, despite being quite fit. (Sometimes in my training hikes, I never really warm up, even after 4-5 miles.) Do you think I should be considering the Via de la Plata? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

 

[Anniesantiago]

I love the Via de la Plata, and I love the Madrid route.
However, in April, you're sure to have both cold and hot days, no matter where you walk.
Generally, I'd say the VDLP or Madrid routes would definitely be warmer, though.

 

[C clearly]

Sometimes in my training hikes, I never really warm up, even after 4-5 miles.

What climate do you live in? Is it possible to make sure you are warm when you start your hikes? Sometimes if I start the day chilled, I will tend to "feel" cold all day, no matter how warm my surroundings are.

 

[spursfan]

I am starting my Camino in early April and had been aiming for the Camino Frances, however, all my reading on this Forum has me concerned about being cold. I get cold easily and don't produce much body heat for whatever reason, despite being quite fit. (Sometimes in my training hikes, I never really warm up, even after 4-5 miles.) Do you think I should be considering the Via de la Plata? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

No, you should just be buying some Merino wool shirts

 

[ScooterB]

What climate do you live in? Is it possible to make sure you are warm when you start your hikes? Sometimes if I start the day chilled, I will tend to "feel" cold all day, no matter how warm my surroundings are.

I live in the southern U.S.
I start out warm but seem to lose heat as I go. Weird, I know. Maybe a hat would help.
I did buy a merino wool shirt today, I hope it won't be itchy!

 

[C clearly]

I start out warm but seem to lose heat as I go.

In this case, I would guess you aren't dressed appropriately for the weather. Merino shirt, buff, gloves, etc., might be just what you need. Maybe a windbreaker/rainjacket.

 

[Peregrina 2013]

In this case, I would guess you aren't dressed appropriately for the weather. Merino shirt, buff, gloves, etc., might be just what you need. Maybe a windbreaker/rainjacket.

I completely agree with C clearly! Merino wool is the best material to wear any time of the year. It comes in different thicknesses, so you could actually have a short sleeve lightweight or mid-weight T-shirt, and a mid-weight or heavy-weight long sleeve. There are many choices, and I know, wool sounds like it would be too hot and too itchy, but that's not so. Wool is awesome because it keeps your body warm when it's cold, and when your so hot and sweaty, it cools you down. A big plus, it does not retain odor!!! Also, you can find wonderful wool underwear - IBEX is my favorite, but there are other brands, like Icebreaker and Smartwool.
A definite yes to having a windbreaker & a buff!!! It makes a huge difference, you'll see. And you SHOULD also have a rain jacket with you, along with a nice lightweight down jacket! With the down jacket being light, you can wear the windbreaker or the rain jacket over it and you'll never be cold! You'll be prepared for all weather!

Ultreïa!

Mary