The famous multy-layering system

Last Updated: 27/01/2025By Tags: , , , ,

Breathable clothing does not exist!

I have noticed that (especially when it is cold) a lot of people use jackets and trousers that are always lined and insulated. These jackets and trousers are inherently waterproof, windproof and warm. Sounds great, until you start being active, exerting yourself, your body temperature rising… and then suddenly the clothing starts to feel too warm, you start sweating too much, you are wet and overheated. And the worst comes when you stop or take a break, and you suddenly cool down, your clothes are wet, you are wet and as a result you are cold and miserable. Moreover, this warming and cooling down only costs a lot of energy. Also, these products are often bulky, hardly packable and simply not very flexible and versatile in use.
A better and more flexible way to cope with the changing conditions during high intensity activities is the multy-layer system. It consists of multiple layers of clothing that complement each other and that you can change in relation to each other depending on the conditions and intensity of your activity. As we have already written, it is best to buy a system that is coordinated.

Layer 1 – Base layer
The first layer forms the basis of our entire system. It consists of a moisture-regulating layer that is worn directly on the body. The layer must have the ability to wick moisture away from your body, keep you warm or cool and dry quickly.

I always choose Merino wool as the first layer.
It has good insulating properties. It is warm in winter and cool in summer. And dries quickly
Merino wool also provides warmth when it is damp (you can easily walk through a short shower with it). And you will see that you will simply walk dry afterwards.
It gives bacteria less chance. So less chance of irritation spots under e.g. the armpits or blisters on the feet.
It starts to smell less quickly. (The outdoor family will be grateful)
You should not wash it that often. This is even discouraged! Airing is enough if it is not dirty.
It is an investment, but one that is worth it. There is a lot of difference in thickness and durability. My favorite is Woolpower. 200 in winter, lite in summer

Layer 2 – Mid layer (s)
The second layer is intended to insulate. This layer must be able to keep the body warm and transfer sweat from the base layer to your outer layer as quickly as possible. Different materials are used in this type of clothing, such as fleece, merino wool, down or synthetic fibers. Often a softshell with a windproof membrane will also suffice. I usually use an overshirt (as from Garphyttan) in the summer, and a thicker (400) merino wool sweater or vest in the winter. I also always take a Keb Loft jacket from Fjällräven with me. It weighs nothing and keeps you fantastically warm. Tested to – 20
Mid layers are available in many different insulation values. If you want to be prepared for different conditions, it is wise to invest in mid layers with different values. You can easily pack the warmer layer in your pack for colder conditions (or conversely, the less warm version for warmer conditions) or even wear them together when it gets really cold. As always, it’s wise to have a variety of options to deal with changing conditions.

If you are not “comfortably cold” you are to warm dressed to start hiking

Layer 3 – Outer layer
The outer layer is the hardshell. This layer is wind and waterproof and is the final step in transporting perspiration from your skin to the outside air. Examples of waterproof and moisture permeable fabrics are Gore-Tex or Eco Shell. The outer layer is intended to protect you from the elements, so that the properties of the mid and base layers remain functional. Typically, these jackets will have no lining or insulation of their own and focus on the primary function of protecting you from the conditions. For certain conditions (when you don’t expect too much rain, you can also wear a softshell or merino wool as an outer shell, which combines layers 2 and 3.

  • Go out and practice in various weather conditions

  • Adapt and see what it gives as much as you can

  • Be aware of what happens and how you react

Remember that this is very long and difficult thing to learn, as there are so many different weather conditions. No 2 days will never be the same!

And how does all this work in practice?
Well, you can only learn by doing. So take all your layers with you in a backpack and go out in your area in different weather conditions. That way you can test everything and experience what suits you and the weather type best. And because you are close to home, you will be back in a protective environment in no time.

I would definitely recommend never to “test” on multiple day hikes, or challenging environments. Many times I’ve seen people overheat or get freezing cold.
So I will say it again, go out – test – and most importantly have fun

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