When old man winter comes knocking, do you answer? Do you swing the door open or hide under a blanket and pretend you're not home? If thoughts of snow and ice make you shiver, take heart, being outside doesn't have to be a torturous experience.

Follow a few guidelines and you can enjoy winter activities without freezing. The key is dressing in layers to stay dry, warm, and comfortable.

Three layers used together for wicking, warmth, and wind will keep out the cold and keep you warm.

1. THE BASE LAYER = WICKING LAYER

During the coldest weather it is possible to perspire. Since wet skin loses heat 25 times faster than dry skin it is essential that you stay dry to stay warm.

Staying dry starts at the skin, thus the base layer should function like a second skin. When we perspire, moisture evaporates from the skin's surface to cool us, but in cold conditions we need to conserve warmth.

The base layer should draw moisture from skin, yet remain dry so we are not clinging to damp fabric.

Thermal tops and bottoms made from such fabrics as capilene and thermastat wick moisture away from the body and move it outside the garment. These fabrics dry quickly and resist mildew and shrinkage.

Different weights are available depending on conditions and activity level. Choose lightweight or medium for moderate conditions and expedition weight for extreme cold or less active endeavors like ice fishing.

Add sock and glove liners for feet and hands to complete the base layer.

2. SECOND LAYER = INSULATING LAYER

The second layer should preserve body heat and insulate against the cold. One of the best materials for this is fleece.

Fleece offers several advantages over traditional fabrics. It is lightweight, warm, and very soft against the skin. Unlike cotton or wool, it absorbs little moisture and dries quickly. It also insulates when wet.

Most manufacturers produce three weights of fleece outerwear to cope with a variety of conditions. Some fleece treated with a wind resistant coating enables it to function as an outer shell in milder conditions.

Those favoring traditional fabrics can opt for wool garments ranging from vests and sweaters to heavy Mackinaw cruisers.

3. OUTER LAYER = WIND/WATER LAYER

The final layer is an outer shell to combat wind, rain, and snow and provide an additional layer of insulation. Fabrics made of Gore-Tex and Supplex do a good job of this and are lightweight. These fabrics are also breathable and allow moisture to dissipate outward.

Choose a shell with an adequate hood for extreme conditions and with enough room to allow for the first two layers. Add a pair of gloves or mittens, insulated boots and your outfit is complete.