How To Properly Layer For Outdoor Adventures
Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate or sponsored content.
For more information, please refer to my Terms, Conditions & Disclosures page.
If you’ve ever been outside, you know the weather can change quickly so being prepared is super important. There are some basics to how to layer but there is also a bit of trial and error to find what works for you! When we think about layering, the season and weather matter. There is an order to layering with the 3 basic parts – base layers, warm layers, and shell layers. You’ll read more about them in a moment.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when layering is never to wear cotton when traveling in the backcountry! This is because when cotton gets wet, it takes a long time to dry and causes your body to have trouble regulating its temperature. Nevertheless, wet cotton clothing is heavy! It is best to replace your cotton clothing with quick-dry, wool, or synthetic fabrics instead.
1. Base Layers
This is probably one of the most important layers because it’s the closest to your skin, and its main job is to keep moisture off your skin. When thinking base layers, thinking light and tight.
In the winter your base layers are “long-johns” or thermal. In the summer, it might just be a pair of spandex shorts and a good sports bras.
Here are some of my favorites:
2. Warm Layers
The goal of this layer is to keep you warm! Depending on the season and depending on the weather, this may look different. The important thing to remember is “air pockets” keep you warm. So if your layers are skin tight, you’ll be colder.
In the summer this layer is likely a wool or fleece sweatshirt. In the Winter this layer will also include a puffy jacket, and/or vest.
Here are some of my favorites:
3. Shell Layer
The goal of this layer is to keep you protected from the elements (rain, snow, and wind). This is important because when it’s wet, it keeps you and your layers dry. In the wind, it helps break it from your skin!
Most seasons this is just a rainjacket and rainpants, but in the winter it might be your ski jacket and snow pants.
Here are some of my favorites:
Now that you know the three basic layers, remember, the best layers are the ones you already own! And the newest, lightest, most expensive gear is not necessary to enjoy the outdoors but knowing the basics is important to not getting stuck ill-prepared for the elements. When looking for new gear, shop around, try on gear, and look for deals! My favorites are Campmor and Moosejaw, they sell great gear at great discounts!
