How to layer functional clothing properly

How to layer clothes

Layering clothes is a proven method to regulate your thermal comfort. The basis is three layers, which you choose as the intensity of your activity or the weather changes.

If you want to choose the right clothing for your outdoor activities, it's important to know the role of each layer.

Why is proper layering of clothing important?

The right layers ensure that sweat is wicked away from the body, keeping you warm but also protecting you from overheating. Plus, the layers allow your skin to breathe freely and protect you from the elements.

Bottom layer: functional underwear and thermal underwear

The first layer is close to the skin and its function is to wick sweat away from the body. See our range of thermal underwear for men and for women and also children's functional clothing. You can choose from synthetic or natural materials.

• Synthetic fabrics are the best at wicking away sweat and are also very durable. Polyester is most common, but you can also find nylon, polypropylene and various blends. Fabrics containing spandex are pleasantly stretchy.
• Merino wool has thermoregulating properties, so it can keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. At the same time, it is odour-resistant, so it doesn't smell even after multiple uses. It is often combined with other fabrics.
• Bamboo has excellent thermoregulating properties as well, it is both anti-allergic and antibacterial. It is very pleasant and soft.

Another important parameter is the weight of the thermal underwear – you can choose from ultralight to thicker ones that add additional thermal comfort, even if this is not the main role of the first layer.

MUZIKER TIP: The bottom layer must fit snugly to the body to perform its function properly, so choose one that is not too loose.

Middle (insulating) layer: sweatshirts and light warm jackets

The purpose of the second layer is to maintain optimal body temperature, and to provide comfort during activity. This clothing is also made of synthetic or natural materials and comes in a variety of cuts and designs for both women and men.

• Polyester fleece is a warm and breathable material that keeps you warm even when wet, yet dries quickly. However, it does not protect against the wind and should be combined with a windproof top layer, or you can choose fleece with windproof properties.
• Down is light, warm and easy to store. With the upper material that contains it, down also provides some resistance to water and wind. The disadvantage is that wet down is not warm enough.
• Synthetic insulating material is becoming more and more similar to down in its properties. Although it is not as packable, it retains its warming properties even after getting wet, which is why it is very popular in rainy conditions.

Top (outer) layer

The top layer protects against wind and rain. It has a water-repellent finish that prevents water from seeping in. In general, top layers can be divided into several categories:

• Waterproof – breathable tops are one of the most expensive, but also the most functional pieces. It is the right choice even for the most demanding conditions. They keep you dry and at the same time are very durable. Both men's and women's styles are available.
• Water-resistant – breathable tops are suitable for demanding activities in wet and windy weather for men and women. They are more affordable than waterproof pieces and are made from tightly woven nylon or polyester fibres. They provide protection against light rain and wind.
• Softshell is a very breathable material popular for aerobic activities. It often combines the protection against rain and wind with moderate insulation, so you get two layers in one.
• Waterproof – non-breathable tops – will be appreciated if you are engaged in static activities, such as fishing or nature observation, in rainy weather. They protect very well against wind and water, but they don't wick away sweat at all, so they're not suitable for more energetic activities.

MUZIKER TIP:When you're going out, it's a good idea to take all three layers with you – it's easier to take off one layer if you're too warm than to put on something you don't have with you if you're cold.

Layering for different weather

Our recommendation of how to layer clothing depending on the weather is closely related to the level of activity or even the metabolism of a particular person. In general, if you're not overheating or freezing too much, you can choose layers like this for moderate activities:

Clothes for cold weather

1. layer – long-sleeved medium thick thermal underwear made of polyester
2. layer – synthetic insulated jacket and medium thick insulated pants
3. layer – breathable and waterproof jacket and pants

Clothes for cold and rainy weather

1. layer – lightweight long-sleeved thermal underwear made of polyester
2. layer – light fleece jacket and synthetic hiking pants
3. layer – lightweight breathable and waterproof rain jacket and pants with vents

Clothes for warm weather

1. layer – underwear made of polyester and a synthetic short-sleeved t-shirt
2. layer – customizable hiking pants and a light wind breaker

Of course, you have a number of different alternatives for each layer to choose from. But choose them to suit the conditions you're going into, what you'll be doing there, and what you'll realistically use.

Also, don't forget the appropriate accessories – cap, gloves, socks or multifunctional scarf.

Clothing according to type of activity

If you're wondering how to dress for specific sporting activities, read on.

How to dress for ski touring

Typical for ski touring is a sudden change in conditions – you warm up when going uphill, and you need to stay warm on the way down. As the first layer, choose merino functional clothing – T-shirt and thermal underpants.

When climbing, you will appreciate light, breathable ski pants, which will give you maximum freedom of movement. The waterproof La Sportiva light jacket will help you resist the rapidly changing weather, and a middle layer with down will keep the accumulated heat during the descent.

How to dress for cross-country skiing

Similar to ski touring, cross-country skiing also requires light, breathable layers. Pants must not restrict your movement. However, wind protection should not be underestimated.

How to dress for cycling in winter

In winter, you can use similar clothing for cycling as for cross-country skiing. It is important that you be warm, protected against the wind, but that the clothes are sufficiently breathable. A jacket with anelongated back part is suitable, and you can use it for other sports as well.

How to dress for a hike

Hiking is an activity that you can do at any time of the year. In the summer, you will appreciate a light layer that wicks away sweat well. You can also choose a long-sleeved top that will keep your skin dry. A great option is convertible hiking pants which can be easily converted to a pair of shorts. Don't forget the top layer if it rains.

When hiking in winter, reach for warmer, but at the same time breathable layers. Comfortable and durable trousers, fleece warm layer and a durable jacket, which will protect you even if the weather changes.

MUZIKER TIP: During sports activities, expect to add or remove layers according to changing conditions. As a prevention against getting cold, you can put on the top layer every time you stop.

With appropriately chosen layers, nothing will surprise you outside. Choose new functional clothing from our outdoor offer.