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Outdoor training and activities in low temperatures may sound really chilly to some ears, but we say the opposite! Of course, we shouldn't have to skip our training just because it's cold; it's all about planning according to what you're going to do, checking the weather forecast, and then dressing in layers. Are you going for a mountain hike? Going for a run or skiing? Whatever your activity is, layering up is a good principle to follow.
Clothes according to the weather is a phrase that you have definitely heard. But have you heard of the 3-layer principle? It can be seen as a kind of basic rule when dressing for all kinds of outdoor activities. It is simply a set of clothes that come in three steps; a moisture-wicking first layer, a warming second layer, and a weather-resistant third layer.
The layer closest to your body is called layer 1, which is the base of your entire clothing setup. The purpose of the first layer is to keep you dry and transport moisture away from the skin. We recommend a close-fitting base layer to maximize functionality. Depending on the activity you are going to engage in, the choice of material is important. Wool base layers provide good warmth and work perfectly for low-intensity activities and everyday life. If you know you will be highly active, a base layer made of functional material is preferable.
NOTE!It is best not to use a cotton garment as the first layer, as the material absorbs moisture and will therefore make you wet and cool you down when you slow down.
Layer two, the so-called middle layer, is meant to keep you warm. It is important to choose a garment that can release moisture from the first layer and at the same time insulate the heat, so the garment should preferably not be too tight but rather airy. Depending on the outdoor temperature and the activity you are going to perform, you should adjust the choice of clothing. If you are a person who runs or goes on tough hikes, then a synthetic garment is a good choice. This material will allow high activity and keep you just warm enough while transporting moisture away. If instead you stick to low activity, then a thicker garment in wool or fleece is preferable, or if you need extra warmth on a really cold day, then a lightweight down jacket is your best companion!
The last and outermost layer is called layer 3. Garments in this category are designed to protect both you and the underlying layers from chilly wind and wet rain. A shell garment is exactly what you need! It provides optimal protection against changing weather, with raindrops rolling off the material and the wind being completely blocked out. The third layer is usually either a softshell garment or a classic shell garment. Softshell has many advantages, however, it does not withstand moisture as well as a shell garment. A suggestion could be to use a softshell garment but also pack a lightweight shell garment in your backpack in case of heavy rain.
The layering principle works fantastically well and one should not forget that it works just as well when it comes to gloves and hats. The most common practice is to use fewer layers than on the body, but the principle is the same. Think from the outside in, with a moisture-wicking material underneath followed by a warming and weather-resistant layer on the outside.
See all beanies here >
See all gloves here >
Now that you know what the 3-layer principle means, you will find it much easier to dress yourself and your children appropriately according to the weather, temperature, and activity. Remember that you can add or remove layers depending on the temperature and what you are going to do. You can use this approach in all seasons; in the summer, two layers may be enough for your hike, while you may need more warming mid-layers for a long walk in the coldest winter.
