Layering 101: How to Stay Warm, Dry, and Comfortable All Winter Long
Winter weather doesn’t care if you’re hiking a trail, shoveling the driveway, or standing around a campfire telling stories. The secret to staying comfortable in cold conditions isn’t one giant, bulky coat - it’s layering.
Layering lets you adapt to changing temperatures, weather, and activity levels, keeping you warm without overheating or getting soaked in sweat. Here’s how to layer properly, what materials actually work, and how to choose the right outerwear for winter adventures.
Why Layering Matters
Your body generates heat when you move and loses heat when you stop. Layering works by:
- Trapping warm air close to your body
- Moving moisture away so sweat doesn’t chill you
- Blocking wind, snow, and rain when conditions turn nasty
A good layering system allows you to add or remove layers as needed, which is critical for staying comfortable - and safe - outdoors in winter.
The Three Layers Explained
1. Baselayer: Your Foundation
Your baselayer sits directly against your skin. Its main job is moisture management—keeping sweat away so you stay dry.
Wool Baselayers
Pros:
- Excellent temperature regulation
- Keeps you warm even when wet
- Naturally odor-resistant (great for multi-day wear)
Cons:
- More expensive
- Can take longer to dry than synthetics
- Some people find it itchy (modern merino is much softer, though)
Best for: Cold conditions, low-to-moderate activity, long days outside
Synthetic Baselayers (Polyester, Nylon blends)
Pros:
- Dries very quickly
- Lightweight and affordable
- Great at moving moisture away from skin
Cons:
- Can hold odors over time
- Less insulating than wool when wet
Best for: High-output activities like hiking, snowshoeing, or working hard outdoors
Cotton Baselayers (a.k.a. “Why Am I So Cold?”)
Pros:
- Soft
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Absorbs moisture and stays wet
- Loses insulation when damp
- Can dramatically increase heat loss
Best for: Honestly? Not active winter layering. Cotton is fine for casual wear indoors, but outdoors it’s a recipe for discomfort (or worse). Use cotton baselayers to keep you warm in a chilly indoor setting.
Rule of thumb: Cotton kills - leave it at home if you'll be out in the elements and opt for wool, silk, or synthetic instead.
2. Midlayer: The Insulator
Your midlayer’s job is to retain heat. Think fleece jackets, insulated vests, or lightweight puffy jackets.
- Fleece: Breathable and great for active days
- Down insulation: Extremely warm and lightweight, but loses effectiveness when wet
- Synthetic insulation: Slightly heavier than down but performs better in wet conditions
You can even stack midlayers depending on temperature and activity level.
3. Outer Layer: The Shield
Your outer layer protects you from wind, snow, and rain. This is where the right jacket really matters.
Softshell Jackets
- Breathable and flexible
- Good wind resistance
- Best for dry, active conditions
Hardshell Jackets
- Waterproof and windproof
- Ideal for snow, sleet, and wet conditions
- Less breathable - best paired with good baselayers
Insulated Outerwear
- Combines insulation and weather protection
- Great for lower-activity days or standing around outdoors
- Less versatile for high-output activities
Layering for Different Activity Levels
High Activity (Hiking, Snowshoeing, Working Hard)
- Lightweight synthetic or wool baselayer
- Thin fleece or light midlayer
- Breathable softshell or lightweight hardshell
- Start slightly cool—you’ll warm up fast
Moderate Activity (Walking, Casual Winter Exploring)
- Wool or synthetic baselayer
- Medium-weight fleece or insulated jacket
- Windproof or waterproof outer layer
Low Activity (Ice Fishing, Spectating, Campfires)
- Warm wool baselayer
- Heavy insulated midlayer or puffy jacket
- Insulated, windproof outerwear
- Don’t forget insulated pants and accessories
Don’t Forget the Extras
Your layering system isn’t complete without:
- Warm socks (wool wins again)
- Insulated gloves or mittens
- A hat or beanie (you lose heat fast through your head)
- Neck gaiter or balaclava for wind protection
Final Thoughts: Layer Smart, Stay Outside Longer
Winter doesn’t have to mean discomfort. With the right layers - and the right materials - you’ll stay warmer, drier, and more comfortable no matter what the weather throws at you.
If you’re unsure where to start, our staff is always happy to help you build a layering system that fits your activities, your climate, and your comfort level. Winter’s a lot more fun when you’re dressed for it.
Now get out there, cold weather and all.