Clothing Layers Buyers Guide

Below is a list of important thing to consider when choosing clothing layer.

Base Layer Clothing

• Keeps skin warm and dry
• Should be made from material that wicks moisture
• Insulates
• Merino wool and other natural materials make good base layers

Mid Layer

• Should have a lot of versatility (Your mid layer is the layer you’ll add to, or take away from, depending on the conditions)
• Insulates
• Warm and breathable
• Down, Fleece, Merino wool, and Icebreaker work well in this layer
• Keep light to ensure comfort

Outer Layer   

• Keeps out the elements
• Retains body heat
• Use materials that are wind and water proof
• Soft shells 
• GorTex and other waterproof breathables work well in this layer

Extremities

• Protection for the head, hands, and feet is important.
• Sock type should be matched with the conditions and activity (avoid white tube socks).
• Use thin wool gloves and warmer fleece mitts overtop.
• Keeping head, hands, and feet warm greatly reduces body heat lost to the elements (this is especially important for the head).
• You can layer your extremities just like anything else (toque under hood, gloves under mitts, etc.).

Layering in Summer

• Base Layer – Something that wicks moisture to keep you cool and dry.
• Mid Layer – Light and breathable to ensure comfort, don’t worry too much about insulation here.
• Outer Layer – There to keep out elements while letting body heat escape. Look for wind and water resistance.
• There are levels of breathability in clothing, and depending on your activities you’ll want to adjust accordingly.
• During the summer, it’s also important to consider UV protection in your attire.

Layering in Winter

• Base Layer – Merino wool.
• Mid Layer – Light fleece, light insulated jacket, softshell, down, and/or sweaters.
• Outer Layer – Keeps the elements out while keeping body heat in.