How to Layer Clothing
Many outdoor enthusiasts understand the importance of layering clothing. By layering clothing you are able to easily regulate your body temperature by taking layers off and putting them on. Clothing layers serve to wick away moisture, insulate and protect you from the elements. When layering clothing, you typically wear three or more layers.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Consider climate conditions, the level of activity you are participating in, and your own personal body thermostat when choosing your clothing layers. Clothing layers can either be lightweight, medium weight or heavy weight depending on these three conditions.
-
2
Start with your first layer, which is also called the inner or base layer. The base layer is the layer that comes in direct contact with your skin and it should fit snug, but not tight. Some examples of inner layer clothing includes long or short sleeve shirts, long pants or briefs and sock liners. The job of the base layer is to wick moisture away from your skin. Good material choices for base layers include polyester, silk and fabric blends that are designed for moisture wicking.
-
-
3
Follow with a mid layer. The mid layer serves to provide insulation. It traps and holds your body heat. The mid layer also wicks moisture away from the base layer. The mid layer should fit looser than the base layer, but not so loose that it does not maintain contact with the base layer. Mid layers can be made from any number of materials depending on the weight of clothing you chose for your layering.
-
4
Finish with an outer layer. The last layer of clothing that you put on is known as the outer layer. The job of the outer layer is to protect you from the elements. The outer layer should be both water and wind proof. Your outer layer should also be rugged enough to withstand abuse.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Avoid cotton when layering clothing. Cotton traps moisture instead of releasing it. If wet cotton is against your skin as your base layer, it draws your body heat away from your body and can cause chafing discomfort.
In warm weather you may choose to only wear a base and mid layer without an outer layer. It is always a good idea to have an outer layer with you though in case the weather changes and you need it.
If it is very cold out you may want to wear four layers. Add a second mid layer if you feel the temperatures warrant it.
