Time to get personal…It’s really hot here in Israel this week. The Electric Company reported a record high usage yesterday afternoon. So when I got dressed this morning, I departed from my typical tzitzit attire.

Usually I wear an undershirt, a Wool Comfort and a shirt. I know, many people out there think wool is unbearably hot, but I beg to differ. Wool doesn’t absorb moisture, so when you sweat, you’re not wet and clammy. And it’s very breathable (especially the Wool Comfort).

In my wardrobe I also have a standard, traditional cotton tallis katan. The big advantage is that it allows me to wear a tank top instead of an undershirt with sleeves. That may not sound like such a big deal, but when the temperatures start to really climb, and you’re constantly looking for ways to stay cool, it makes a big difference.

Of course some people will just wear an undershirt tzitzit, and cut down a layer. But personally I prefer not to wear tallit katan against my skin. Wearing a tank top means I’ll definitely have to put my shirt in the laundry every day, but it’s easier to wash a shirt than a tzitzit undershirt.