The Winter Olympics and Paralympics are underway in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, with forecasts predicting temperatures between the upper 30s and mid-40s Fahrenheit (1 to 10 degrees Celsius).
These warmer-than-expected temperatures for winter will require athletes to adjust their equipment, but will still impact both athlete physiology and the experience of spectators. As a biological anthropologist and materials scientist, understanding the body’s response to these conditions and how materials can help is key to athlete performance.
Challenges for Athletes
Athletes participating in outdoor events are accustomed to cold and unpredictable weather, but even these conditions will affect performance. One concern is dehydration, which can be hard to notice in colder temperatures. The dry air also requires the body to use more water to moisten air before it reaches the lungs, leading to increased water loss for athletes.
The body’s response to cold includes narrowing blood vessels to maintain core temperature, which can push fluids toward the kidneys and increase urine output. Even with these physiological responses, athletes will still sweat, and the resulting dampness can increase vulnerability to cold injury between rounds of competition.
The Science of Staying Warm
Apparel companies often use a three-layer system to keep wearers warm, dry, and comfortable. This includes a moisture-wicking base layer made of nylon or wool, an insulating middle layer of down or fleece, and a waterproof and breathable outer layer made of polyester or acrylic.
The materials used in athletic gear are often customized, with coatings added to fabrics like nylon to enhance properties like wind and water resistance. Many of these materials are polymers – long chains of molecules – which can be either human-made or naturally derived.
Beyond conventional materials, “smart materials” like phase change materials are also being explored. These materials automatically absorb and release heat as they transition between solid and liquid states, helping to regulate body temperature. While not yet common in athletic gear, NASA has experimented with these materials, and they are used in some commercially available products.
Risks for Spectators
The risks associated with cold weather extend beyond the athletes themselves. Thousands of people and support staff will be attending outdoor events, and unlike the athletes, they won’t benefit from the heat generated by physical activity. These spectators are at greater risk of cold-related injuries.
Those attending events should drink plenty of water, wear multiple layers of clothing, and pay attention to vulnerable areas like the hands, feet, and nose. Colder temperatures elicit responses like shivering and the activation of brown adipose tissue, both of which burn extra calories and can increase hunger.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperatures are expected at the 2026 Winter Olympics?
Temperatures are forecast to be in the upper 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (1 to 10 degrees Celsius).
How does cold weather affect the body?
Cold weather can lead to dehydration, increased urine output, and the need for the body to expend energy to maintain core temperature through shivering and the activation of brown adipose tissue.
What types of materials are used in winter athletic apparel?
Winter athletic apparel often uses a three-layer system including moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon or wool, insulating materials like down or fleece, and waterproof/breathable outer layers like polyester or acrylic.
As the games progress, will the athletes and spectators be able to adapt to the conditions and maintain peak performance and comfort?
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