How to Layer Clothes

The best way to stay warm and regulate your body temperature in cold climates is by layering your clothes. This involves wearing multiple layers of clothing that you can take off or put on throughout the day to match your activity level and ambient temperature. In this guide, we’ll teach you the basics of cold weather layering and give you tips to stay warm in cold environments.

How to Dress in Layers

Layering your clothes is the most important factor when it comes to temperature control, but this doesn’t mean you just toss a few random items of clothing on and call it a day. You need to carefully select your layers of clothing so that they work as a system (three-layer clothing system) to regulate your body temperature, keep you dry, and protect you from the elements. There are three main types of layers:

• Base layer (inner-layer)
• Mid-layer
• Outer-layer (shell)

Each layer has its own purpose in the layering system, and it’s important to understand the function of each layer to select the best clothing possible. It is always better to wear too many layers than not enough because you can always remove a layer if you get too warm, but you cannot add extra layers out of thin air if it is colder than expected.

How to Choose a Base Layer

The main purpose of a base layer is to manage moisture by wicking sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable. Base layers are the first item of clothing to go on and have the most contact with your skin. Some examples of base layers include long sleeve shirts, long underwear, and socks. 

Sweat is our body’s natural way of controlling temperature, and managing sweat properly is the key to staying dry and comfortable throughout the day. There are three main categories of base layers:

• Lightweight
• Midweight
• Heavyweight

Lightweight base layers have excellent moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, but they provide limited insulation compared to heavier base layers. They are most commonly made from polyester and other synthetic materials like spandex. Lightweight base layers are ideal for warmer climates and physically demanding activities. 

Midweight base layers offer a middle ground between lightweight and heavyweight layers. They are efficient at wicking away moisture but provide extra insulation for colder climates. Many midweight base layers are made from Merino wool which offers additional benefits like next-to-skin comfort and enhanced odor control. Midweight base layers are ideal for cold temperatures that are not below freezing.

Heavyweight base layers are for extremely cold and/or harsh weather conditions. They provide plenty of insulation to keep you warm, but they also need to be breathable and well-ventilated for comfort. Heavyweight layers can be made of synthetic materials or wool. 

In sunny conditions, it is best to wear a base layer with some type of UV protection. Heavyweight base layers are ideal for temperatures below freezing.

How to Choose a Mid-Layer

The main purpose of a mid-layer is to provide insulation for enhanced warmth. Some examples of mid-layer clothing include synthetic down vests, fleece jackets, and puffer jackets, also known as down jackets. For warm weather and/or physically demanding activities, you can skip the mid-layer entirely or wear it as your outer layer, creating a two-layer clothing system. 

Middle layers are usually compact, so you can store them in your backpack or vehicle just in case. For cooler conditions and/or moderate physical activity, you can wear a fleece or synthetic insulated jacket or vest. Polyester and Merino wool are also suitable mid-layer materials.

For freezing cold conditions, you should wear a thick insulated jacket that traps the most warmth possible. Down jackets provide the best insulation, but they should only be worn with a waterproof outer layer to protect the down insulation from getting wet.

Down insulation is great for keeping warm, but it is ineffective when wet. That is why you should only wear them with an outer layer that offers weather protection. Synthetic insulation provides plenty of warmth for hiking and most outdoor activities and is effective even if it gets wet, making it a better option for milder temperatures.

How to Choose an Outer Layer

The main purpose of the outer layer is to protect you from the elements and environmental hazards. Outer layers form a protective shell that shields you from rain, wind, and snow and hazards like branches and thorns. 

Most outerwear has some type of durable water repellent (DWR) coating that allows water to bead up and roll right off the fabric. Some materials, like GORE-TEX, have waterproof and breathable membranes that offer superior weather protection and breathability. A breathable outer layer helps manage moisture and improves comfort; breathability is even more important in milder conditions or physically exerting activities.

Putting It All Together

Now that you know the types of layers and the purpose of each, you can selectively choose the best options to match your planned level of activity, outdoor temperatures, and weather conditions. Layering from head to toe is important to regulate your body temperature and stay protected. Other clothing items you need to consider are:

• Boots and Footwear
• Gloves and Mittens
• Hats and Headwear

At CampSaver, we offer a wide selection of apparel to meet all of your outdoor needs. Shop online with us today for great deals on men’s clothing, women’s clothing, and kid’s clothing to keep you and your entire family warm, dry, and safe during any season.