What is Layering?
Layering simply means wearing a combination of clothes (in layers) to help regulate your temperature and keep you warm and dry. The layers you wear for a given activity are matched to the weather, your activity level and your personal preference There are essentially three layers to consider: base, mid, and outer. Each layer has a specific function. The base layer wicks moisture & perspiration away from your skin to keep you warm. The mid layer is for insulation and keeping you warm, The outer layer allows moisture to escape while blocking wind, and repel water.
The Base Layer
The base layer is in contact with your skin. A tight fitting and wicking material is best to keep you warm and dry. Polypropylene, silk, polyester, Thermax, Thinsulate, and wool are all good choices Avoid cotton because it traps moisture, so it stays wet and draws heat from you. Base layers come in various weights (lightweight, midweight and heavyweight). Select a weight based upon the outside temperature and your activity level. The lighter weight is better at wicking, the heavyweight has more insulation.
Polypropylene Long Underwear
Wool Long Underwear
Silk Long Underwear
Wicking Tees
The Mid Layer
The Mid layer provides insulation. It should be a bit looser than the base layer, but to function properly it needs to maintain contact with the base layer. Mid layers also carry moisture away from the base layer to the outer layer. Common material for mid layers include down, polyester, fleece, wool and newer synthetic / natural blends. Many mid layer clothing has extras such as pit zips, long front zippers, adjustable cuffs and collars.
Down Jackets
Fleece Jackets
Power Stretch Tops
The Outer Layer
The outer layer blocks wind and allows moisture to escape. Typical outer layers include shells made of Gore-Tex or a similar material. Extras such as pit zips, ankle zippers (for pants), and a variety of ventilation options are standard. Outer layers should also be tough enough to withstand tears and abrasions. Other less high tech options may include wind resistant materials, or water resistant fabrics.
Gore-Tex Shells
eVent Jackets
Windstopper Jackets
Hard Shell Jackets
Once you have a layering plan, you can adjust your temperature control simply by removing or adding layers as needed.
Another tip for maintaining the life of your clothing is to follow the care instructions on the item. Synthetic, technical fabrics need to be cleaned properly in order to wick, insulate and repel water. Special cleaning products can restore the moisture wicking and water repellent properties if necessary.
Head, Hands and Feet
After your core is covered, you need to properly dress your extremities. Wear a hat, mittens or gloves, socks and shoes or boots that match your activity and weather conditions. To cool yourself if you overheat, you can often just remove your hat or gloves. Keep in mind that wind blocking fabric is also important for hats and gloves. Altough fleece is warm it does not provide protection from wind.
Hats
Gloves
Smartwool Socks
Winter Boots
Proper laying will not only make you more comfortable during winter activity, but it also keeps you safe.
