The ultimate guide to layering

Base layers - to wick sweat
Base layers are made to wick sweat away from your skin and help to keep you comfortable for longer. As for materials, they tend to be made from one of the following:

• Synthetics - synthetic base layers (made from recycled polyester and other sources) are typically lightweight, great at wicking sweat and dry very fast. When combined with other fibres like elastane, they offer great range of motion and are very comfortable.
• Naturals - natural materials like merino wool are renowned for their natural thermoregulation and natural antibacterial properties. They’re also made in various weights (115 grams for summer and up to 300 grams for winter) which allow you to select the right base layer by activity and season.
• Blends - finally there are blends which combine natural materials like merino wool with synthetics to help manage sweat even better while still boasting the natural performance characteristics of wool.

Mid layers - to insulate
Your mid layer should provide sufficient insulation while still drying quickly so you stay warm. It’s also designed for moisture to pass through from the base layer to the outer layer or winter jacket, so avoid water- or windproof materials. Instead, you should opt for fabrics like wool or microfleece that incorporate synthetics for added breathability and moisture management.

Outer layers
Windbreakers, winter jackets or down jackets make ideal outer layers to shield you from the elements. If you’re looking to brave ice and snow in winter, we recommend an insulated piece like a down jacket. Otherwise, a softshell to repel wind and rain without adding bulky insulation is often enough. But if there’s heavy rain in the forecast, look for a waterproof membrane. You want a piece to help keep you dry, warm and protected for your climate and sport of choice.

The benefits of layering lie in its versatility. By combining the right layers, you can adapt your apparel to any weather or activity.

When it’s cold but dry out, opt for a protective outer layer with good insulation like a down jacket. Cold and rainy? You still need to stay warm, but down doesn’t handle moisture well. Synthetic down will be your best friend here. The fibres are water-resistant, so they insulate even when wet. Primaloft®, Thermaplume® and G-Loft are best. Consider a jacket with a wind- and waterproof membrane for extra protection from the elements to keep chills at bay. Also, if you’re out hitting the pavement or slopes early in the morning or later in the day, think about reflective detailing to stay safe. For warmer temperatures in autumn and spring, go for a breathable base layer and a water-repellent and windproof insulating outer layer without a mid layer to avoid overheating.

A breathable base layer is essential for wicking away any sweat you work up on the descent, plus it keeps you from getting cold while sitting still on the chairlift. Merino wool is best because of its breathability and warmth, even when wet.

Next, a mid layer helps trap your body heat. It could be a fleece or light insulated jacket. Consider the lining and insulation of your ski jacket when choosing your mid layer.

The outer layer is your ski jacket, which can often have a fleece or synthetic lining - or even down quilting for warmer jackets. It should be windproof to protect you from gusts on the chairlift or the breeze you’ll create as you fly down the mountain. If you prefer sunnier ski days, a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on your jacket should be enough. If you’re an all-weather skier, then the protection of a waterproof jacket - for example, Gore-Tex - is key. Bear in mind that women’s ski wear is cut differently and is warmer, as women are generally more sensitive to the cold.

Adaptability is key. Take touring and freetouring, for example. With the three-layer principle, you can keep your insulated jacket in your bag while climbing so you don't overheat and put it on before skiing back down against the wind.

Leaving your extremities exposed can cause you to lose a lot of body heat, so protecting your feet, hands, neck and head is imperative. Go for a beanie, headband or neck gaiter depending on the temperature and intensity of your workout. Gloves will keep your fingers warm and protect your hands if you slip on the ice. Thick merino socks are great for keeping your feet cosy, but consider sizing your shoe up a bit so they don’t feel too tight. You can even add overshoes or gaiters.

With your extremities covered, use the three-layer system to protect the rest of your body. Your usual base layer might suffice, but you can replace it with a warmer, long-sleeved shirt if the wind’s blowing hard. A thin fleece is usually enough of a mid layer for high-heart rate activities. For the outer layer, a windproof or waterproof jacket works well to keep out the elements. Have a warmer jacket handy for when you stop moving; your body will cool down quickly. For your lower body, switch to long tights when shorts no longer provide enough protection, especially in the snow.

Because winter days are so short, we often run at night. In addition to a headlamp, reflective detailing will help drivers spot you. When it’s cold and dark out, don’t compromise on protection. We recommend investing in a few pieces that will truly make a difference in the way you feel. Winter workouts are better when you can run in style and comfort.

As always, start with a close fitting base layer to wick perspiration away from the skin and help regulate your body temperature. It’s best to avoid cotton since it’s less breathable and slow to dry. Instead, we recommend either synthetic fabrics, which are more ergonomic, or merino, which is breathable and warm. There’s even blended fabrics with all the advantages of both. Hiking can be hard on your feet, so we recommend merino wool socks if you’re going the distance; they’ll keep your feet warm and prevent odours. For a faster paced hike, consider synthetic fibres, which fit your foot shape better, making them ideal for very active walking. Either way, give them a test run before hitting the mountain to make sure they’ll stay comfortable all day long. Sports bras can also help to provide extra comfort and hold.

Depending on the weather and workout intensity, you can then opt for a lightweight softshell or a thin fleece as a mid layer. It’ll keep you warm, but you can easily stow it away in your pack if you start to heat up or put it back on if things cool down later in the day.

For an outer layer, look to strike the right balance between breathability and impermeability. Speedy hike on a moderate day? Go for a more breathable windbreaker or water-repellent layer. A full day’s hike in changeable weather? You need something water- and windproof. The weather can change in an instant, especially at high altitude, so use the three-layer principle to adapt to whatever the mountain throws your way.

Lastly, are short or long sleeves better for hiking? That depends on weather conditions and how much you feel the heat or cold. Long sleeves offer the added bonus of more sun protection. They also draw moisture away from the skin better and are more comfortable under a jacket.

You’ve likely come across the terms “waterproof” and “water resistant” or “water repellent.” They might sound similar, but they could mean the difference between ending a workout dry or dripping wet. Waterproof fabrics shouldn’t let any moisture through, no matter how heavily or how long it rains. Water-repellent or water-resistant just means that water runs off for a time. Windbreakers and down jackets with this tag are generally breathable but can become damp in a heavy downpour or persistent rain.

Things get even more complicated if you’re planning to work up a sweat when it’s wet outside. You need a fabric that’s not only waterproof, but also breathable, such as our Dual Dry. This wicks perspiration away while still protecting you from the rain so you won’t end up soaked by a downpour or drenched in sweat. To be totally sure that your gear is 100% waterproof, check the seams. Taped or heat-sealed seams stop water from seeping in through the tiny needle holes.  Knowing what to look for in rain gear can help keep you dry and comfortable even if the skies open up.

It depends both on your body and the fit you find most comfortable. ODLO offers six different styles:
 

• Slim: Slender cut and snug. For a looser fit, we suggest sizing up.
• Fitted: Tailored but more of a relaxed cut than our slim fit garments.
• Athletic: Slightly tailored
• Regular: Loose, straight fit.
• Casual: Relaxed fit.
• Compression: Strategically tight and designed to boost performance.

Our products are available in sizes ranging from XXS to XXL. Take a look at our size chart to find your best fit with matching measurements. Or use our size calculator for even greater accuracy: click “What’s my size?” on the relevant product page and enter your height, weight and age.