What is a significant consideration when layering clothing for insulation?

Including moisture-wicking layers is a significant consideration when layering clothing for insulation because moisture management plays a critical role in maintaining body temperature during outdoor activities. When a person sweats, moisture can accumulate on the skin and in clothing. This can lead to a drop in body temperature due to evaporation, which can be particularly dangerous in cold environments.

Moisture-wicking materials are designed to draw sweat away from the skin and allow it to evaporate quickly, keeping the wearer dry and warm. This is essential when layering, as the first layer directly against the skin should effectively manage moisture to ensure that subsequent insulation layers can perform optimally. Proper layering techniques that include moisture management help to sustain comfort and thermal efficiency, ultimately improving safety and performance in search and rescue operations.