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Step 1
Choose your innermost layer of clothing. Absorbing sweat is called wicking and is a necessary trait for the layer closest to the skin. The most common inner layers are made of cotton, silk or polypropylene. Two other recent innovations are the Moisture Transport System (MTS) and Capilene. Try on some long john type inner layers in each material to see which is right for you.
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Step 2
Buy a mild layer to put over the inner layer. A top for this layer should be a pull over jacket, a long sleeved t-shirt or a sweater. For bottoms, the best option is a pair of light weight cargo pants. Some cargo pants come with a built in zipper at the knee that allows to you create shorts within seconds.
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Step 3
Select a layer for insulation. This layer can be a vest, jacket, pull over or sweater. Good choices are commonly made of wool, pile or fleece, down or polypropylene.
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Step 4
Bring an outer layer that's waterproof or at the very least water-resistant. When selecting an outer layer, you need to decide if you need breathability or not. The most popular option is waterproof and breathable.
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Step 5
Purchase and bring two pairs of socks. First put on a thin sock that will remain close to your skin. The second sock layer should be thicker and wick sweat effectively.
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Step 6
Wear a hat that covers your ears to keep your head and ears warm. Heat escapes quickly from the head, so keeping it covered means fewer layers on and more range of motion for your body.
