Heading out to the slopes might be the highlight of your week, but getting frostbite or a sunburn puts a serious damper on things. Knowing what types of layers to use in different kinds of weather helps you stay in good health and have as much fun as possible.
Layering Clothing For Cold Weather
For cold weather, there are three types of layers you want to have: a baselayer, a midlayer, and a shell. You’ll also want to think about accessories to protect your head, hands, and feet.
The Baselayer
Your baselayer is the layer closest to your body. Its purpose is to wick sweat away from your body and keep you comfortable, so it should have good breathability and odor control. Ideally, it should also be made of a fast-drying material.
Thermal pants, a thermal top, and socks are a great way to go, but other thin, insulating materials can also work. If it’s only a little cold, you’ll want a lighter-weight baselayer like the Patagonia Capilene® Midweight line. For colder conditions, choose something warmer, like the Patagonia Capilene® Thermal Weight line.
The Midlayer
Your midlayer’s purpose is to trap heat and keep you warm. At the same time, this layer should still allow for breathability.
In wetter conditions or activities that might get you sweaty, you’ll want synthetic insulation since it does a better job of keeping you warm when wet. Technical fleece is a great material for high-exertion activities. Many skiers use a good fleece jacket and long johns. Look for clothing that mentions “active insulation,” which means it’s designed for movement and uses breathable, synthetic insulation while also wicking away moisture.
If you’re planning to be out in dry conditions and want something lightweight and compressible, you might want to consider a jacket or coat with down insulation. Duck or goose feathers can keep you warm as long as you stay dry.
The Shell
Your shell is your outer layer that protects you from the elements. Like every other layer, it should be made from a breathable material. You might not need this layer at all if you’re heading out in fair weather.
There are different types of shells for different types of weather. Soft shells are designed for light precipitation, while wind shells are made to protect you from the wind. For heavier rain, sleet, or snow, you’ll want something waterproof.
For skiers and snowboarders heading out in cold but sunny weather, a water-resistant shell is generally a good choice. If you want to ski in storms, are an extreme mountaineer, or are heading to an area with unpredictable, frequent precipitation, you’ll want something waterproof. Higher-end GoreTex products are a great choice for wet conditions.
Head and Eye Protection
Headgear is important for outdoor activities, especially in the cold. If you’re skiing, biking, or doing another activity that involves moving quickly, you should always wear a helmet.
Eye protection is essential for snowsports — the sun will reflect on the snow, and the snow can sting your eyes at high speeds. Sunglasses are sometimes enough on warmer, clearer days or if you have other activities in mind, but in most cases, goggles are best. Goggles with UV protection give you more coverage, a wider field of vision, somewhat less fog, and a snug fit so you don’t lose them.
You might find several different types of goggles at a sports apparel store with different shapes and lens colors. Spherical lenses give you a wider field of view with less distortion, but they cost more than cylindrical lenses.
Darker or mirrored lenses are best for bright, sunny days. On cloudy or foggy days, you might want to let in more light, so yellow, green, or pink lenses are great to have as well. If you’re skiing in extreme snow or after dark, you’ll want clear lenses. Some makers offer prescription goggle inserts or over-the-glasses goggles.
Other Cold Weather Accessories
Don’t forget to protect your hands and feet! Gloves or mittens are a must in cold weather.
You should also choose footwear that fits well and is designed for the activity you’re doing. Properly fitted ski boots will make a huge difference in your skiing. For hiking, it pays to take time to learn about the different types of hiking footwear so you can get the right style for the type and level of hiking you’re doing.
Other Cold Weather Tips
Always wear all three layers for skiing, but don’t wear more than that since it can make you sweat more and trap the moisture.
Choose a thicker midlayer for colder days and a thinner one for milder temperatures.
Always wear dry layers if possible. Let your outer shell jacket and pants dry out every night after use.
Avoid cotton in cold weather. This material gets very cold when wet.
Layering Clothing For Hot weather
Dressing for hot weather isn’t quite as complicated as dressing for cold weather, but it’s no less important. In hot conditions, airflow and sun protection are the key elements to think about.
Hot Weather Clothing
While this might seem counterintuitive, you’ll want to cover up to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. A lightweight, long-sleeve shirt is a great choice for the sun.
Look for lightweight and loose-fitting clothing with a UPF rating for sun protection. Ventilation panels, zippers, and mesh fabrics will help you stay cool. Choose light colors such as white, tan, or khaki so that your clothing will reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them. If you think it might rain, you’ll want to wear waterproof materials.
The best materials for hot weather are often different from your cold weather clothing. Cotton can be an OK choice for shirts and pants in hot and dry conditions, although it’s best to avoid it on your feet. For socks, look for wool or synthetic materials and choose something that fits your feet well — you don’t want wrinkles that will rub or cause slippage.
Hot Weather Accessories
You will also want to protect your neck and head. A baseball cap might be OK, but a sun hat with a brim is better. A sun-protective neck gaiter, bandana, or another lightweight cloth can also help you avoid getting sunburn on the back of your neck.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and bring water! You’ll appreciate having a hydration pack and a squirt bottle with a mist setting.
Get Top-Rated Apparel For Your Outdoor Adventures Today
Tygart Mountain Sports sells a variety of sports apparel to protect you from the elements in all kinds of weather. Shop our store today to get the clothing and accessories you need for your next adventure.
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