How to Dress for the Outdoors | The 3-Layer System

• odor control

• moisture-wicking properties

• flatlock seams (added comfort)

Learn to choose your base layer like a pro and discover everything you need to know about base layers. 

Midlayers are the most versatile piece in your layering system because they are designed to be taken on and off. The best piece of advice we got from professional skier Kaylin Richardson is to “be bold, start cold.” Before you get moving, you might feel like you want to throw on the midlayer, but once you’re in the flow, you’ll find that a) you heat up pretty fast and b) you won’t want to stop. So, try to start out wearing a base layer and a shell, but have a midlayer handy just in case.

There are two types of layers that you can wear between your shell and base layer. There’s an insulating layer and there’s fleece (and pile). Some people think these are the same, but there is one key difference: their purpose.

The only purpose of an insulating layer is to trap warmth; they’re not intended to keep out rain and transport moisture. Examples of our insulating midlayers are puffy jackets—which are made of down—synthetic LIFALOFT™ or PrimaLoft®, or a combination of both down and synthetic, known as a hybrid insulation.

In addition to warmth, fleece and pile breathe a bit better and dry quicker than insulating layers. Fleece especially, wicks moisture better than pile. Remember that moisture-wicking qualities are the most important factor of your layering system.

Read our in-depth guide on how to choose a midlayer and learn the difference between fleece and pile. 

• half-zip / full-zip (full-zip is easier to put on and take off
• hand pockets 
• weight 
• packability (insulating midlayers tend to be more packable)

Shell jackets or shell pants are just a shell—they don’t have any insulation and look like a rain jacket (or rain pants). Their main purpose is to stop wind and rain from getting into your midlayer and base layer. The shell must be waterproof. But it’s not just about keeping out the elements because you also want to let your sweat out.

Across our range of shell jackets, we use our waterproof/breathable HELLY TECH® system; its unique membrane keeps water molecules out, while allowing sweat vapor to pass through— keeping you dry from the outside and comfortable on the inside.

• pockets

• pit zips (for extra breathability)

• waterproof/breathable membrane 

• helmet-compatible hood

1. Always pack all 3 layers. You never know when the conditions might change (and they change fast in the mountains)
   
2. Always keep your base layer on
3. Your midlayer and outer layer (shell) can be put on/taken off according to the conditions:
   • For wind/rain/snow, always keep your outer layer on (for protection)
   • For fair/cold weather, always keep your midlayer on (for warmth)
4. Don't forget the extras!
   • A hat, buff and pair of gloves all help to keep your extremities warm. 
   • Sunscreen is a must. No matter how cold or overcast the weather may seem, UV radiation is present year-round. 

Since we developed the 3-layer system in the early 70s, our new technologies and smart constructions have evolved to be customizable for different activities and environments. With this layering technique, you’ll stay comfortable, dry, protected, and ready to take on whatever your adventures throw at you.