Properties of Heat Loss Properties of Heat Loss Heat is never really lost, but transferred or altered in some way. Convection - continuous movement of air or water transferring heat. Wind or rain against bare skin. Radiant Energy - heat radiating outward from a direct source. Sunshine is a source of radiant energy.
Body heat is lost by all three methods.
Radiant energy loss is very small, for practical purposes insignificant. Clothing with reflective threads or foil linings are intended to trap heat by reflection of radiant energy. Unless these fabrics are used with good insulating materials they are of little value. In general any product relying on this principle to conserve body heat should be avoided. All materials conduct heat.