LAYERING 102: MID AND OUTER LAYERS

If you can master layering, the winter will become yours to explore

You never know when snow will appear, so carrying layers will let you enjoy the unexpected.

Last time, in Layering class, we covered everything base layer. Today we move on to mid and outer layers, and maybe even accessories if we’re feeling ambitious. Once you’re armed with this knowledge, getting out and exploring, even when it’s -20 degrees outside won’t seem so far fetched. So let’s dive right in, because the faster you learn this skill, the sooner you can strap on those snowshoes and get outside.

Mid Layers

While base layers sit snug against your skin and help wick moisture away while keeping you slightly warm, mid-layers are there to keep you warm while slightly wicking moisture away. They tend to be a bit bulkier than the base layer, though nowadays fabrics are getting so high tech that less and less bulk is required to keep you toasty warm. When we talk about mid-layers, we’re generally referring to something made of fleece or an insulated piece.

Fleece

Fleece is usually the go-to for mid-layers, and even here there are different levels of warmth between fleeces. Usually, the thicker the fleece the warmer it will be. Until you start getting into gridded-fleece (it looks a bit like a waffle), which use those little pockets of air to help trap your heat without the bulk of a thick sweater. High-loft fleece is also a great option for warmth with less bulk.

Beware though, the downside of fleece is that it picks up an odor pretty quickly, and because it’s hydrophobic, should really be washed with a specialized detergent. The best part about fleece is how soft and cozy it feels. It almost makes you want to brave the cold just as an excuse to bundle into that warm hug.

Down and Synthetic

Here we’re talking about down or synthetic down. These insulating mid-layers pack a pretty massive punch of warmth to weight ratio, but may not be the best choice if you’re going to be doing a lot of sweating during your activity, because they just don’t wick sweat away that well.

Down insulating mid-layers are great because they pack up tiny, weigh very little, and can keep you incredibly warm (especially if it’s a high loft). The downside is that they can be pretty pricey, and lose all insulating power if they get wet.

Synthetic down do a lot better at retaining some insulating power when they get wet, and tend to be quite a bit cheaper than their down counterparts. They make for a great layering option, but they do tend to be a bit heavier and bulkier than natural down would be.

Fit

The fit you’re looking for with a mid-layer is pretty simple. While base layers want to fit tight to the body, the mid-layer should have enough room to accommodate your base layer and allow you to move comfortably, while still remaining snug enough to trap the air that will keep you toasty warm.

Find the layering system that works for you, and winter exploration will be exciting instead of daunting.

Outer Layer

When we talk about outer layers, sometimes we refer to them as a shell. And that’s pretty much exactly what it is. Though you might utilize your outer layer to add a bit of extra warmth, the majority of your insulation should be coming from the base and mid-layers. The outer layer’s primary function is to protect from wind and water, while still allowing breathability so that the moisture you create can escape.

Waterproof

A fully waterproof top layer is often referred to as a hardshell. These are designed for rain and snow, meant to keep you dry and happy in the wettest of conditions. You’ll want to make sure that it’s a breathable waterproof, and often will have things like taped seams and DWR (durable water repellent) coatings to help increase its waterproofness. When you’re choosing a hardshell, weight, breathability, and durability are going to be factors you should consider.

Windproof

A windproof (and usually water-resistant) outer layer is generally referred to as a softshell. This layer doesn’t protect from water as well as a hardshell, but does offer a lot more breathability and mobility. Softshells tend to be much more flexible, will protect from light precipitation, and are ideal for aerobic activity in a dry, cold climate.

Insulated Outer Layer

Think of your classic ski jacket. That’s an insulated outer layer. These layers tend to be heavy and bulkier, and designed for more extreme cold. Though not ideal for activities where you’ll be doing a lot of start-and-stop, or for varying weather, they’re great for continual activities like skiing, wearing around the campsite, keeping in your bag for breaks, or even just walking around a cold city and waiting for the bus.

Some days start out cold and require some warm accessories, even on a bike trip in Thailand!

Accessories

Here’s your bonus layering lesson: you can also layer accessories like gloves, socks, and scarves. The same principle exists when layering accessories as with clothing. Snug-fitting, moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and protective outer layer. Now you can keep your finger and toes happy when you get out and explore!

So there you have it, you’ve now mastered the basics of layering. One of the best things about layering is that you can mix and match for every occasion. No one layering system will work for every situation, but as you warm up you can remove layers, carry them in your bag, and add them again when you stop to snack. You can personalize your layering system for every occasion, and leave your friends feeling over (or under) dressed in their giant parka with a t-shirt underneath.