What is the correct order of the three layer clothing principle in hiking?

31 Jul 20

Leanne Troy Training and Preparation

Nothing can ruin an outdoor activity faster than being shivering cold and wet or overheating and wet from your own sweat. Layer clothing for a long-distance walk for complete comfort (and in some instances, safety) requires some planning. Wearing several layers of thin clothing is more comfortable than wearing just a raincoat or warm jacket.

Here are my top tips on how to layer clothing, which I’ve written for mountain regions during spring, summer and autumn. Weather in the mountains can change quickly; layers allow you to adapt quickly.

If you choose the right layering system you can pack ultra light, look good and have all you need to be
comfortable, warm and dry while hiking outdoors.

The best way to stay protected from any weather and temperature changes is to use a 3-layer clothing system. Each layer has a function. The base layer (against your skin) manages moisture; the middle (insulating) layer protects you from the cold; and the shell layer (outer layer) shields you from the wind and rain. With this system, you simply add or subtract layers as needed.

Base Layer: Moisture Management

The base layer helps regulate your body temperature and wicks moisture away from your skin when you are hiking, keeping you dry and warm in the cooler regions. Let’s talk materials for the base layer:

Wool vs Synthetic

Both wool and synthetic t-shirts or long sleeve tops provide the moisture wicking function we need when hiking. Wool fibres are so fine that they won’t itch or scratch while walking, which also means no chaffing. Wool also helps to neutralize body odour, but will not dry as fast as its synthetic competitors and can be slightly more expensive.

Synthetic base layers are a great alternative to wool as they dry even faster than wool, but do tend to hold body odour. So if you are considering multi-day hikes and do not have access to washing facilities, wool can be a much nicer choice for your fellow hiker.

Beware cotton!

There is one base layer fabric that must be avoided – cotton!  Cotton soaks up sweat like a sponge, and when cotton is wet it draws heat away from your body, and this can lead to hypothermia. Hypothermia can happen in even the mildest of conditions.

Middle Layer: Insulation 

The middle layer is designed to trap body heat and allow sweat vapour to continue moving through the layering system.

The most popular mid-layer fabric is fleece as it is affordable, durable and quick drying. The thicker the fleece the more heat it traps. Depending on conditions you’ll need a mid-weight fleece or a light-weight fleece.

Synthetic vs Down

Both are great for the added layer if the weather is cooler at a higher altitude when you stop for a break. Think of them as mini sleeping bags with arms. As you gain altitude the temperature drops, so remember to pack the extra layers even though its warmer down in the valleys.

Shell Layer: Weather Protection

The outer layer, known as the shell, blocks wind and rain, it also allows the sweat vapours to leave the final stage of the layering system. 

There are 2 types of shell: membrane and coated nylon. Both do a great job of keeping out the elements but vary in how quickly they allow sweat vapour to escape.

Gortex vs Coated Nylon

Gortex is top of the line when it comes to keeping out the elements and being comfortable while active. You know that you will be dry all day in a waterproof/windproof Gortex jacket!

Coated nylon shells are designed for passive activities, like short walks with a day pack. This option is less expensive compared to Gortex and less breathable than other membranes on the market, so they can feel sweaty during arduous activities.

LAYERING YOUR LEGS

The layering system can also be used on your legs by adding leggings made from base layer fabrics underneath your wind-resistant trekking pants. You can also add a softshell pant to your kit, depending on where you will be hiking and how high.

ACCESSORIES FOR HANDS & FEET

To keep your head and body’s vital organs warm in cold conditions, the heart reduces blood flow to the extremities (hands and feet). These areas do not generate much heat on their own, so some insulation and protection from the elements is needed.

Add a beanie and gloves to your kit, even in the summer months. Merino glove liners will additional warmth at high altitudes and an extra layer of comfort. Remember that in the European Alps the temperature can drop significantly overnight.

PREPARATION IS KEY

Think of layering as simply a way of dressing that allows you to adjust to a wide range of weather conditions to enhance your enjoyment of the great outdoors. Before setting off on your trip, take the time to think about what you need to pack and choose your fabrics wisely.

I hope this has cleared up some of the ‘layering mystery’ and that you have fun layering clothes.

Happy hiking!

See also:

When it comes to the outdoors, there are three principal layers: Base, Insulation, and Outer. The foundation layer worn next to the skin. Keeps the skin dry by wicking away moisture. Ideally it should be lightweight and dry quickly.

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What are the three layers of clothing?

Three layers of clothing will keep you dry and warm: a base layer for removing moisture, a mid-layer to keep you warm, and an outer layer to protect you from the elements.

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What is the 3-layer principle?

The 3-layer principle is a clothing system consisting of three garment layers of the right materials and design, which can be added or removed based on weather conditions and activity. This is the wicking layer which transports away moisture from the skin and helps regulate body temperature.

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What are the layers of clothing?

How to layer: To understand layering your clothing for outdoor activities, you need to know the function of each layer:

  • Base layer (underwear layer): wicks sweat off your skin.
  • Middle layer (insulating layer): retains body heat to protect you from the cold.
  • Outer layer (shell layer): shields you from wind and rain.

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What are the 3 layers of clothing you should wear when outside in the winter?

There are three layers you should wear to keep you warm in cold weather: Base layer: For absorption. Middle layer: For insulation.

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Layering Explained (The 3 Layer System)

How many layers should you wear hiking?

comfortable, warm and dry while hiking outdoors. The best way to stay protected from any weather and temperature changes is to use a 3-layer clothing system. Each layer has a function.

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How should I dress for winter layers hiking?

Winter Layering

For winter conditions start with a top to bottom base layer. Think wool or polyester long johns snug up against your body. Add on some nice water resistant nylon hiking pants and as many pullovers or lightweight down puffer vests or jackets as you need.

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What are the 3 layers you need to maintain warmth?

Three layers of clothing will keep you dry and warm: a base layer for removing moisture, a mid-layer to keep you warm, and an outer layer to protect you from the elements.

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What are base layers?

In the most general sense, a baselayer is a layer of clothing. It could be a t-shirt, long-sleeved top, or leggings. Most baselayers are worn next to the skin or close to the skin, as in a system of wearing one baselayer over another. To work effectively, baselayers should fit snugly on your body.

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What is the best outfit to wear when hiking?

A standard recommendation is to bring two options, a lightweight fleece top or jacket, and a lightweight puffy jacket that compresses well to fit in your daypack. Adjust as needed for your specific trip. Fleece jacket: On colder days, you can wear it while hiking. On a cool day wait until a rest break to slip it on.

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How many layers should you wear?

Three layers of clothing will keep you dry and warm: a base layer for removing moisture, a mid-layer to keep you warm, and an outer layer to protect you from the elements.

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Why should you wear several layers of clothing in cold weather?

Wearing multiple layers of clothing in cold weather allows you to adjust insulation according to a changing environment. For example, wearing multiple layers allows you to remove a layer when working in a heated area, and then to put the layer on again before moving outside.

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What does dressing in layers mean?

Definition of dress in layers

: to wear several pieces of clothing on top of one another When the weather is cold you should dress in layers.

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How do you wear base layers?

Always wear base layers next to your skin as this is where they work best. Think of a base layer as an extra layer of skin. Light to wear and snug to fit, base layers help to keep you warm without overheating, and cool in hot weather when you're exerting yourself with activities like when climbing or hiking.

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What is mid layer clothing?

Simply put, a mid layer is an item of clothing that goes between your skin-hugging base layer and your waterproof or water-resistant outer layer.

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What is a base layer for hiking?

Put simply, your base layer is the clothing that will sit closest to your skin. Base layers are designed to help move moisture away from your body to quickly evaporate off of the surface of the fabric, a process formally referred to as “wicking.”

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What is base layer top?

What Exactly Is a Base Layer Shirt? A base layer shirt is one that acts as a “second skin,” providing your body with an extra layer between you and the environment. It's tight-fitting but breathable and provides sweat-wicking capability, insulation and temperature regulation.

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Can you wear two base layers?

Can you wear two base layers? Simply, yes. Wearing two base layers can be an effective and flexible part of your layering. If you are out in very cold conditions.

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How do you wear layers to keep warm?

It should be snug but not tight. Down coats also make a great middle layer in the coldest temperatures. Outer — This layer is less about keeping you warm (the first two layers should be doing that) and more about blocking the wind and rain.

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How do you wear layers in cold weather?

Here's the breakdown to the four essential layers.

  1. Layer 1: Baselayer. No matter how frigid the temperature, wear a light, long-sleeved baselayer next to your skin. ...
  2. Layer 2: Midlayer. This layer should be made of wool, polyester, or a blend of the two.
  3. Layer 3: Hooded jacket. ...
  4. Layer 4: Outer shell.

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How do you wear layers in fall?

Layering for the fall is easy when you have strategic pieces of clothing in your closet. Be sure to have plain cotton turtlenecks, mock necks, and quarter-sleeve cotton shirts for base layers. For the top layer, light V-neck sweaters, fleece vests, fashion scarves, tank tops, and other basic tops work well.

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How do you wear hiking?

Hiking sandals and sneakers are appropriate for most terrain, though longer treks may still require hiking boots. Breathable wicking materials (no cotton) are key for shirts, bottoms and hiking socks to keep the sweat off your skin. Lighter colors absorb less heat and can keep you cooler on hot days.

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When should I wear my base layer for hiking?

That means that even if you are usually warm while moving, a base layer will be especially important to make sure you don't get very cold from sweating buckets. Bottom line: if it is cold and/or windy and you will be sweating, you should have a base layer on to protect your core.

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Which base layer is the best for cold weather?

Our Team's Baselayer Picks

  • Best Overall Baselayer: Smartwool Merino 250 1/4-Zip.
  • Best Synthetic Baselayer: Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew.
  • Best Budget Baselayer: Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew.
  • Best Heavyweight Baselayer for the Cold: Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck.

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