A look into a possible future when I am hopefully still an adidas blogger and when we’ve managed to mess up the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) so badly that Northern Europe is on the brink of turning into a scene straight out of “The Day After Tomorrow”. 

While the scientists resist saying “we told you so” and instead focus on trying to figure out how to fix this colossal blunder, let’s focus on what’s truly important: updating our wardrobes to survive the impending ice age (or simply to buy some seasonal Christmas presents for this year), all while staying on-trend with the latest from adidas in my style guide to surviving the AMOCalypse.

Understanding the AMOC: The Atlantic’s Conveyor Belt

Before we dive into fashion tips, let me explain what the AMOC is and why its future trajectory is concerning

What Exactly is the AMOC?

Imagine the Atlantic Ocean as a giant conveyor belt, tirelessly transporting warm water from the tropics up to the North Atlantic. This not-so-little current, known as the AMOC, plays a starring role in regulating our climate. It’s the reason why places like the UK enjoy relatively mild winters instead of being buried under a perpetual blanket of snow.

Why is the AMOC Collapsing?

The Role of Fossil Fuels

Ah, fossil fuels—the gift that keeps on giving. Our insatiable appetite for coal, oil, and gas has pumped so much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere that the planet is heating up. This warming leads to the melting of polar ice, dumping fresh water into the North Atlantic and messing with the AMOC’s delicate balance.

Climate Change and Its Impact

As if melting ice wasn’t enough, climate change is also causing shifts in precipitation patterns and ocean salinity. The result? The AMOC is slowing down, and some scientists warn it could collapse entirely. If that happens, Northern Europe might swap its temperate climate for something more akin to Siberia. Yes, global warming means cooling for some of us. 

The Inevitable Chill: Preparing for a Cooler Northern Europe

If and when the AMOC collapses, it will be time to brace ourselves for a significant drop in temperatures and for us to adopt our lives to survive the AMOCalypse.

Forecasting the Freeze

While exact predictions are tricky, it’s safe to say that winters in Northern Europe could become harsher and longer. Think more snow and icy winds. Every day reminding me of that bitter cold January spent in Amsterdam when we went from shop to shop simply to heat up between tear inducing bouts of cold.

Implications for Daily Life

Beyond the obvious need for better insulation, heating and an increased consumption of hot beverages, a colder climate will impact agriculture, infrastructure, social unity, and most importantly , our fashion choices. After all, who wants to look drab while battling frostbite?

Fashion Meets Function: Updating Your Wardrobe to Survive the AMOCalypse

It’s time to swap those light jackets for something more substantial. But don’t worry; you can stay warm without sacrificing style.

Layering Like a Pro

The key to surviving the AMOCalypse is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat at bay, add an insulating mid-layer for warmth, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Bonus points if you can still move your arms. Finish off with some warm and snow proof shoes, a hat and some gloves 

Choosing the Right Materials

Choose materials like merino wool and down for insulation. They’re warm, breathable, and won’t make you smell like a wet dog. Avoid cotton; it holds moisture and will leave you shivering in no time.

adidas to the Rescue: Sustainable Fashion for a Warming World

Just because we’ve triggered an AMOCalypse doesn’t mean we should forget about sustainability. If anything, we should embrace it more to protect what we have remaining. As we layer up, we need to consider what we are buying and how it wil not (or will) contribute further to global warming. There are many brands increasing their commitment to sustainability and alternative and recycled materials and as an adidas blogger, I am focusing on their efforts and their products for this blog..

The adidas Commitment to Sustainability

Sports brand adidas has pledged to end plastic (made from oil) waste by innovating and partnering with organizations like Parley for the Oceans to make shoes and clothes made with ocean bound plastic. They have invested in using hemp, myocill and organic cotton while more and more of their clothing is made from recycled polyester which at least means less virgin plastic being used. These still contribute to plastic pollution as they shed microplastics when washed and cannot be recycled infinitely, but it is a step in the right direction. 

Conclusion: Staying Warm, Stylish, and Sustainable

As we brace ourselves for the AMOCalypse, let’s not forget that our fashion choices can make a difference. By opting to avoid fast fashion and investing in long lasting gear from brands like adidas, we can stay warm, look good, and maybe even help the planet recover from the mess we’ve made. So, layer up, stay stylish, and get ready for an ice-age with these picks from adidas.

Nice picks from adidas for Winter

Keeping our heads warm is the Terrex Cold.Rdy Merino Beanie made from 100% Merino wool, which is excellent at regulating body temperature and managing moisture. Perfect for those brisk cold evening walks as we try and keep the pounds off.

When it comes to layering up, adidas have a huge range of options but my current favourite jacket is the adidas Paveric Fur Parka. Warm and cosy without being too bulky, it is my go to jacket when the temperature dips, and with its PFC-free water-repellent finish it also covers me when the weather turns wet (which is often the case  in Glasgow).

Being relatively short, well with short legs, this jacket covers my waist, hips, and upper thighs, but to keep the rest of my legs warm this winter, I have two pairs of men’s tracksuit bottoms I like.

Made from 100% recycled polyester the Terrex Multi Knit Joggers are sleek (even on me) and comfortable joggers allow me look stylish and prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at me. 

When it comes to feeling cozy, soft Essentials French Terry Tapered Cuff 3-Stripes Joggers (sourced from Better Cotton Farmers) joggers are hard to beat while they will not dent your pocket too much, allowing you to afford £3 carrots and £5 potatoes which now have to be imported from the region of Europe not experiencing drought.. 

And for keeping your feet warm, I have to admit that part of me is gutted at missing out on the special collaboration between adidas and Moon Boot Moonboost High Shoes  as they would make the perfect Survive the AMOCalypse footwear keeping our feet super warm.

Whatever you wear to survive the AMOCalypse please do try and buy only what you need and where possible buy sustainable products and goods built to last and which are easily recycled. Ideally we want to foster a circular economy so that rather than survive the AMOCalypse, we instead prevent it from happening? Do we have the will and the time? Or does cost and convenience trump sustainability and survival?