Cold Weather Layering Isn't This Simple... is it?

[@marcohanig176]

One of the best bits of layering advice I got is about outer shells. If you're hiking and comfortable in your base+mid layers, and you have to put on the outer shell because of rain, make sure to remove the mid-layer or you will overheat. Amazing how well a base layer + outer shell can work when you're active.

[@ColoradoStreaming]

Shells with pit zips make a big difference as well.

[@buckodonnghaile4309]

@@ColoradoStreaming do they ever. Makes hiking in the rain a joy.

[@richardgarza7083]

Yep and riiiight on! Tis true folks tis true.

[@gregvanpaassen]

Never thought about it before, but I automatically do this!

[@teutates619]

Depends on what shell and how on the limit you are with the base + mid-layer combo. My rain shell is kind of a heat conductor it seems, meaning it gets too cold if I swap middle layer to it when there is some wind. Also, one needs to be pretty constantly in movement and the position for the weather needs to be pretty constant too. When going through variable terrain, swapping from trees to no trees, up the hill with wind, then in the lower less windy parts... It tends to be tricky.

[@ReeferCheifer13]

Merino wool base layering has changed my life.

[@mamneo2]

Incroyable.

[@popegramzz479]

same i buy only Woolen shirts you can wear 1 for months without smelling thats amazimg

[@teenermeener971]

Is it itchy?

[@stephenperry5972]

Mainly in the second month

[@SimplicityForGood]

It just makes you sweaty and is shit in the city at the Winter! Worst idea ever

[@adeadgirl13]

My outer layer is usually a house.

[@ChaseMountains]

Hahaha hahaha hahahahahhahaha

[@Evofash]

That's true bro.

[@tovubek8287]

A key point is that air pockets between layers are really important for staying warm when sitting still. The warm midlayer should not fit tight into the base layer. It allows for a better barrier between the heat your body are generating. You wannna percerve every little amount of heat when not moving.

[@edh615]

but if there are lots of air pockets air will escape and re-enter with movement which is not optimal.

[@ablazedguy]

@@edh615 When you're moving you're producing a lot more heat. Some air circulation could also help keep you dry from sweat.

[@edh615]

@@ablazedguy if you are sweating probably can remove some layers, when it's really cold you don't want any air moving.

[@WontSeeReplies]

Could you talk to us like we needed to stay warm in very cold conditions? I’m not looking for workout wear.

[@brawndothethirstmutilator9848]

JSU's n Bhdjnfj, some people engage in aerobic output in very cold conditions (hiking, Nordic skiing, climbing, etc.). Expelling perspiration is also an important part of staying warm regardless of activity or lack thereof.

[@MarkoCoomo]

Great vid! As a Brit, my waterproofs live at the top of my pack, not the bottom! 😉

[@mamneo2]

Incroyable.

[@XxKINGatLIFExX]

Hahah as a Yorkshireman my waterproofs live on me and not in my pack.

[@DJunclepaul2nd]

Well done. You are the only outdoor/camping KZbinr to mention live plucking of down. So many people promoting cheap Chinese bags/quilts. And even the certified stuff is not really trustworthy. Farms only checked once a year with it being an arranged visit. I bought a cumulus quilt, I trust the poles more and it's a smaller industry. More needs to be done to raise this awareness

[@ChaseMountains]

I'm sure I'm not the only one but I'm glad to be one of them. Thanks for your comment.

[@flowersafeheart]

Yes I appreciate this too!!🌿 I was even nervous to use any form of merino or alpaca wool for cruelty reasons...but...I think?...those are available from truly not cruel sources and well-regulated? 🌿As for down its easy enough to pick a less cruel alternative. 🌿As for leather, that's a whole other conversation. Still thinking it through. A friend's child made leather shoes from roadkill deer. I thought that was kind of cool because it had passed away of natural cause, not hunted. I don't know if typical leather comes from some sort of deer factory farm or what?

[@donniebel]

If you are one who sweats a lot, like me, then look into Brenje fishnet base layer. I’ve found nothing that moves moisture better. It all I need down to freezing temps under a synthetic sun type shirt when backpacking. I soak straight Merino and once saturated it takes forever to dry out Merino synthetic blends are better option for me but not nearly as good as the Brenje. I also find Alpaca to be much better choice for me over Merino- has many of the same qualities but holds much less moisture and breathes better. If it’s a bit under freezing, wear alpaca hoodie with above layers. If it’s windy, a light weight shirt as a wind layer works great to slow the wind down. Alpaca is surprisingly warm- they claim the fibers are semi hollow. The downside is alpaca and Brenje is quite expensive but if your like me and need max moisture movement fabrics then it’s worth it to be comfortable.

[@antoniescargo4158]

Brynje

[@sallypeters909]

I went to the Brynje USA site and ordered a synthetic mesh shirt because I, too soak a merino base layer and then freeze if I stop for a snack or nature break. Thanks for the Brynje tip, I never would have found them without your comment!

[@adr3510]

thanks alot for the advice, this is why i love youtube. The comments are always the best thing about a video

[@daphne8406]

Norwegian wool sweaters are awesome for winter activities 🤗 It’s used often while cross country skiing 😝 You only need a waterproof layer over it if it is actively snowing but otherwise the sweater over a base layer is plenty warm enough 🤗

[@OmmerSyssel]

You don't ski with a woollen sweater.. It's too warm for anything than breaks. Thin wollen underwear is enough.

[@marand90]

@@OmmerSyssel Depends on how cold it is, and how sweaty you are making your ski trips. I often ski in my Islender sweater. Talking cross-country skiing however, slow paced. Not alpine or slalom.

[@tokarukora7272]

@@OmmerSyssel I can asure you I absolutely do ski with a very big woolen sweater. I would not even step out of the house with skis without my sheep wool sweater and my merino wool underwear. And I know what I am talking about, since I lived literally on a skiing resort mountain for 20 years.

[@OmmerSyssel]

@@tokarukora7272 that's good for you! I've met tiny women skiing full power in bikini like dress .. We are all different 😎 Have fun ⛷️👙☃️🍻

[@richeyrich2203]

@@tokarukora7272 what letter does the town start with?

[@Unitedstatesian]

Many years ago I added a thin vest/windbreaker to the mix (the kind made for runners without arms and with breathable backs to compensate for the backpack). This is a game-changer. While active, it is often all I need over my base layer and leads to a less sweaty back and chest. It is also suitable as a light mid-layer while wearing an outer shell and a base layer. They are usually relatively cheap, lightweight and versatile.

[@JB-1138]

That's a great suggestion. Thanks I'll look into it.

[@bruce-le-smith]

good stuff, love wool base layers. I grew up in Manitoba and would cross-country ski in the winter at -20 to -30 plus windchill. cotton is definitely the worst. also love the simple 3 layer system: wool base, zippable mid, and wind-breaking outer.

[@komgneh]

fellow manitoban here! only few know the extremes we go through haha it is so crucial to dress properly

[@andrewbollard5701]

Chase, great video as always. I think it's particularly important to make the point that you can get away with a cheap or second-hand mid layer and saving your money for a better base or outer layer is the way to go. There's lots of places in the world where the climate has lots of rain throughout the year but it's not necessarily so cold that you'd require a mid layer when hiking or climbing, and so investing in both a quality base layer to wick sweat away and a quality outer layer that is reasonably balanced between breathability and waterproofing is really vital to enjoying the mountains whether you're in a hot or cold climate.

[@mukkaar]

Yep, outer layer is essentially doing almost all the work in any challenging environment where you would need one. Base layer is important, but it's usually not that expensive and you can get away with not ideal materials. But if your outer layer sucks when you need it, you are going to be wet either from rain or sweat, and you freeze due to wind and cold.

[@JB-1138]

Used?

[@joel.wuestehube]

Comon Chase be real with us, you didn't get the Salewa mid because it was cheap. You got it because it's the most banging mountain drip 🔥🔥🔥 nice video ❤️

[@ChaseMountains]

banging drip AND cheap. it was a fucking steal! a piece of history even

[@mountainbadgerab]

That thing is rad! I wish I could pull it off like him!

[@daenerystargaryen]

Thank you for caring about animals and mentioning cruel practices. ❤️ Since I don't buy animal products and am an active caver/climber, I found it quite hard to find quality products that will keep me dry and warm. But there are more and more new materials that very successfully mimic down and real skin, and thrifting and buying second hand is also great, not just for the animals but also the environment.

[@thehealthinspector4811]

You made me cringe

[@svenvanderzwaag1012]

Vegan couple here! And while yes wool and down products are often still superior in clothing and bedding there are a lot better alternatives for vegans than the plastic and cotton clothes. I would advice for example tencel, bamboo, plantbased silk, hemp etc. Those are moisture wicking, sometimes have hollow fibers so warm when it is cold and cool when warm, some have antibacterial and fughi properties so they get less smelly and you will have to wash them less often, they are soft and strong.

[@Shrouded_reaper]

You guys really won't buy wool? You know that sheep quite literally HAVE to be sheared right? If they aren't, then the coat becomes too hot in the summer and actually dangerous. When you see them romping around a field after shearing you can tell they love losing that wool.

[@Sausa738]

​​@@Shrouded_reaperThe reason they have to be sheared is because we have bred them to produce much more wool than they would do in the wild. Wild sheep would naturally shed their winter coats.

[@lochlainnmaguire9923]

I heard a good saying in regards to outdoor clothing which helps alot when helping customers in a outdoor store, "Cotton kills" it retains moisture really good and if it gets wet you lose 85% of your heat.

[@The_Tradie_Trainer]

Even more applicable out on the water!

[@thomasrobertfitness]

I went for hiking yesterday in Switzerland and I was wearing a cotton t-shirt, a pullover, also made from cotton and I had a 550 Nortface jacket on. The trail was consider as moderate however I was drenched end the end of it. Literally full wet. It was cold and snowy however I was sweating like hell. If I opened my jacket I felt the wind, if I zipped it, I was hot. I literally have no idea how to go on a hike 😂

[@colinjames2469]

cotton? Huge mistake

[@thomasrobertfitness]

@@colinjames2469 yes I realised after I was completely wet :D

[@anitasyvalahti1730]

Merino wool is my favorite. It´s cold in the Scandinavia countries in winter. Great video, thanks Chase.

[@tomsitzman3952]

At 80 my body is pretty beat up. I'm now limited to biking. On a winter ride below freezing 0C - 32F, over my inner layer I wear a tight wind proof weave wool pullover shirt that covers my butt, that I designed in 1973. I wear the shirt on the outside, untucked. The base layer wicks moisture away from my core and the heat is trapped, and the moisture can exit through the bottom. My neck is protected by the stand up collar. The shirt also has a 6 inch open at the neck that can open to exhaust excess heat. I have switched to a poly wool blend base layer, since I can no longer find fish nest in the States. I have become a big fan of alpaca, socks, sweater, head cover. The alpaca wool is antibacterial, the fibers are hollow and keep you cool or warm depending on the temperature. Since first writing this 8 months ago I have found a source for Fishnet base layer. It is Brynje USA The original fishnet from Sweden also Brynje Canada and Sweden.

[@skyblue-lb9kr]

Hi Tasmania! it's PNW. Layers and "kits" (and the 'right' shoes) are the story of my life. Current fave midlayer is thrift store cashmere :) Appreciate your videos.......

[@kelkel3883]

I like the Merino wool socks from Darn Tough Socks based out of Vermont. They keep the feet warm and easy to wash/dry. I think I have 3 or 4 pairs for this winter, so I can rotate them out when necessary.

[@teejay3272]

And if they break down with a hole or something you can send them in and they'll send a replacement for free. Stink free too. All I wear.

[@MrAndre2022]

If you gonna be working, like hiking with a backpack, just use brynje base layer and a windproof on top, like gore tex. If you stop for a break or will be stationary a bit just throw on a good wool sweater. Love from Norway!

[@lysanatt]

Revisiting this video for the great advice given here. Trying to build a small wardrobe for 1-2 day hikes in Danish (rainy, high humidity all the bleeding time) weather, and this is so helpful, saving me time and money, picking out only what is necessary - and most importantly: something that works.

[@delanebredvik]

Brilliant. I live in the Rockies in Colorado and layering is key. Sunny, cold, thunderstorms, wind... I still have have not got it down, so thanks for this video!

[@Talis7]

The best hiking gear and guides channel there is. No question, best of all of youtube mate.

[@keithcarey6016]

on the bottom layer, wool pants over a thin baselayer are excellent for really really cold weather. Your perspiration will crystalize on the outsize of the pants where it can be just brushed off.

[@sr-el3gt]

I’m so glad I found this video. So helpful to plan my Everest base camp expedition in 12 week. Thank you so much

[@zacharysherry2910]

Wool. WOAL! I do want to say something interesting about polypropylene... I used to wear a black polypropylene shirt every day doing landscaping. I was made fun of because everyone thought white made more sense. They wore white cotton shirts then... They got sunburned because they translated the light through the clear/white fibers and then also did not dry very quickly at all. Then the wet clothing (covered in dirt) would irritate you until your skin bled. I could pour water down my back with a black polypropylene shirt and be dry so fast that it cooled me off. I also saved my skin from the sun. Some of the things that I learned were counterintuitive, like when I watched the landscaping teams that would use long sleeve shirts even in the sun. Of course that makes sense in a long term but it took a while to figure out why they liked to sweat that much! Lol. Today it's 27° in Denver and I have a wool skull cap under my hard hat with a down bubble jacket and I use a high quality raincoat as a wind layer. There is a long sleeve flannel underneath that. My boots are insulated and have composite toe caps instead of steel to translate less cold to my feet. I use a cheap cotton long sleeve shirt under the flannel. I have a polypropylene short sleeve shirt under that. I also wear a gator around my neck made of stretchy cheap material. It needs to block the low speed wind only. It's a key to this temperature in my opinion. I have other layers with me and I take them off and put them on often to remediate sweat (like another thicker skull cap made of thick woven wool). In negative temperature I feel too hot. This system is tested every day.

[@macmurfy2jka]

The only additional information I would add is the poly-wool blends are often harder wearing and easier to wash than pure wool base layers. They really tend to be the best of both worlds. The other is that fashion sweaters like the fine thin Marino wool and cashmere sweaters meant to be used in more formal attire are some of the best thin mid layers a person can buy if they are being active. When I cycle commuted for school that was usually all I would wear between my outer and base layer and that was down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit ( -10 degrees Celsius). Sometimes it rained enough to soak through everything and even at 25 degrees F (-4degrees C) they tended to comfy. They are low bulk, and super breathable and the Cashmere is very warm for its weight. AND it’s soft. AAND AND They are also pretty easy to find second hand. (Warning, apparently the Cashmere sweaters may have issues with durability as the fiber can be brittle. One could ware holes in the clothing using it for hiking.) Edit made for information. See comments below.

[@jonnenne]

Cashmere is very brittle so they are going to get a lot of holes in hiking use

[@macmurfy2jka]

@@jonnenne interesting, never had that issue. I guess I never wore mine enough? Like a said, my experience was mostly cycle commuting. Thanks for the input, I’ll make an addition to the op comment.

[@OmmerSyssel]

@@jonnenne are you washing as prescribed? Wool doesn't take more than 30-40°C, and suitable soap!

[@Tom-wd5bs]

You cover a really important point in that you can layer up base layers ,ive not seen many other people discussing base layers cover this , so thanks for that

[@33Jenesis]

I have a down mini skirt that I wear in cold weather often. It goes over my hiking pants or jeans to keep my bums warm. I agree with all your points and follow the same system of dressing. I can’t leave home without wool socks (i wear two thin pairs), gaiters, buff, beanie, glove liners, bandana, sunblock :)

[@lysanatt]

Despite never wearing skirts, this sort of convinces me that getting a down skirt may be a brilliant idea. Hm. Also SO with you on the wool socks. And the sunblock. Nothing ruins your day as much as getting a sunburn, however slight.

[@frits8986]

Hey man, whatever floats your boat 😂

[@WillieStephenson]

That vintage mid-layer fleece is incredible

[@ChaseMountains]

they dont make em like they used to that's for sure

[@The_Tradie_Trainer]

Most 90s thing I’ve seen in 25 years!

[@EK-mx7zb]

Good advice, I concur. It doesn't have to be complicated and most people overdress in cold temps. Keep the shell off if you're at all active and the wind isn't howling, or else you'll be in a pool of sweat. I don't think you mentioned gloves?...thin liner gloves are always a minimum part of my kit when its cold enough to think about layers. Often when hiking in above freezing temps.

[@ChaseMountains]

Yeah I glazed over gloves pretty quickly. I could probably do a whole video on ‘extremity base layers’ like gloves, hats, socks etc

[@caseyhayes4590]

I use very lightweight gloves even if it's really hot to keep my hands out of sun (less weight than constantly applying sunblock) and I notice the only times my hands get real dirty is setting up/breaking down a tent. I bring actual warm gloves if I'm going up really high altitude or freezing temps, more for crazy cold winds or wearing around a cold campsite. Unfortunately i've yet to found lightweight cool gloves that are also durable. Seems they all last a year or so before they fall apart. I hiked over Mnt Whitney once with just light gloves and nearly paid the price for it when we hit knock you off your feet winds, since then I always bring some legit gloves in high altitude in addition to the lightweight gloves that are more for the sun/dirt/dryness.

[@Songbirdstress]

@@ChaseMountains I have a windbreaker fleece skull cap under my bike helmet and it's a game changer.

[@deannilvalli6579]

Wool is defo more expensive, but I am not convinced it is less breathable. Also, synthetics get blazing hot (to the touch) in the sun, while wool is more like cotton. It doesn't get hot to the touch in the sun. This is pretty decisive on those days when the sun is pounding down, it is warm enough to wear just a shirt. I agree about the softshell jackets- I have one but hardly use it- it is either not warm enough as an insulator, or not water proof enough as a rain jacket. Instead, I go hard shell when wet, and have softer, warmer, more comfortable things on underneath.

[@tomsitzman3952]

Wool is smart. When it is cold the fibers open up to create insolation and in the heat they shrink to create open air spaces air flow.

[@ColoradoStreaming]

Personally, I like Merino woo as a base layer as it wicks sweat, regulated temperature and does not stink like synthetic. For mid layers though I think synthetic is the best option.

[@anitasyvalahti1730]

@@tomsitzman3952 👍👍. Wool is smart.

[@gregkosinski2303]

There is definitely variability in the different varieties of wool, but overall it definitely regulates temp better than synthetics, and in my experience, Norwegian wool like Dale of Norway sweaters regulates the best.

[@anitasyvalahti1730]

@@ColoradoStreaming I agree. Merino wool, or lamb wool does not stink. I like also merino wool socks.

[@Jonny33333]

Watching this from my London flat preparing for winter 2022.

[@ChaseMountains]

Godspeed my friend

[@torreyintahoe]

The best advice I've ever gotten on layering is from Marc Twight's book 'Extreme Alpinism'. He dispels the industry model of increasingly thick layers under a shell. When you're expending a lot of energy, you want minimal insulation that is windproof and have a warm puffy to put on over all of it when you slow down or stop.

[@MarcP5267]

Hi this is where I’m getting stuck. I currently purchased USGI(ECWCS) tops and bottoms level 1 polartec silks and tops and bottoms level 2 polartec grid fleece to start building up a layering system. I’ve tested the above in my back yard in mid 20F with no wind doing light - moderate labor work with a very light jacket I had laying around in the house “to trap in the heat”. I was skeptical at first if would keep me warm. In fact I had to take off the very light jacket because I was getting too warm. There was hardly any wind. I probably could have just worn the level 1 and the light jacket and skipped the polartec grid fleece. I believe in temps were high teens low 20’s wearing the grid would have been good. Where I’m getting stuck is I’m not sure if I need another layer over the level 1 and 2 that will be under an outer layer as a just in case. I’ve seen some wear a puff vest over their level 1 and 2 then an outer layer. Ok now the other thing I’m stuck on is the outer layer. For bottoms I don’t feel I need anything special. My Carhartt duck pants over a level 1 and / or level 2 seem to work. I’m not sure what I need when it’s windy. It can get windy where I live which results in wind chills that make it “feel colder”. Also if it’s around 35 degrees there rain, if it’s below snow. So I need something to protect me from the rain and snow. I don’t mind purchasing 2 separate pieces. The only caveat is it needs to be rugged, tough and durable material that could take rubbing up against stuff in the bush. Any suggestion? Thanks!

[@maxwellerickson7066]

I was going to say. I was getting very frustrated watching this video and seeing Chase describe down and synthetic insulated jackets as midlayers. They are never supposed to be midlayers! Any downproof or ripstop calendered shell fabric used for insulated jackets is going to be nowhere near breathable enough for that purpose. If it's really, really cold, maybe a really thin synthetic layer. Never a down layer. You will sweat into it and decompress the loft. That is a static insulator.

[@gusjeazer]

Down jackets are great for when you aren't being active and therefore need more insulation. Light, compact, downsides (lol) aren't that relevant when resting.

[@caseyhayes4590]

I've used my rain shell/rain pants to fight off high altitude cold winds about 50 times and only against rain about 10 times. That's in mostly Sierra Nevada mnts in western US, rain just doesn't seem that common but cold winds are especially at 8k ft and higher. When I get done with a 4-8 day hike I like to head into some town and eat a real meal before I even get cleaned up...if my wool base layer shirt is a nice looking shirt I can usually wear that in and at least have one piece of clothing that doesn't smell bad sitting next to people at a restaurant. Whatever lightweight cool synthetic shirt I have always smells pretty bad by then.

[@CaptCanuck4444]

First time on your channel, I enjoyed the content. Lots of good insights, and it's nice that - unlike so many - you're not trying to push overpriced products to the viewer. One thing I'd say is that I've often hiked in a pair of thin comfortable Goretex hard shell pants (Arcteryx) in cool weather, wearing just boxer briefs underneath, and found that they kept me warm but not hot, and were lightweight but were an effective wind barrier. I prefer that to a soft shell pant, especially if the weather is unpredictable.

[@gcruishank9663]

Like you said it depends on your activity. I was winter camping when it got down to -18C at night last February and large down pants and down booties sure were nice when sitting outside or even in the tent before lighting the stove or getting up in the morning. You have to be very careful though, I accidentally cut mine without knowing and wore them to bed inside my sleeping bag. Woke up with all this down coming out of the bag and floating around the tent. Ahhh. Good thing they were cheap.

[@samw363]

Yeeesss mate softshell is the ONE. Had a pair of jack wolfskins that lasted 5 years, months at a time in Scotland or Welsh winters. Absolute beasts, it was such a sad day throwing those away.

[@murmeli2966]

Thank you, that was super helpful! As a beginner it's so confusing when people throw around all those terms you've never heard of. Now I get it.

[@chaotbl]

A gamechanger for me was a rainskirt for hiking. It breathes so good, is easy to put on/off and packs really small. And it has dual use as a tarp for sitting or a small emergency shelter. You'll find some starting from 15$ online.

[@joyceleppers]

Hi chaotx thanks for the tip, just tot be sure: do you mean a poncho?

[@chaotbl]

@@joyceleppers Sure! No, really a waterproof skirt. If you tipe "rain skirt" in your search engine/online shop there will come multiple recommendations. Altho I use the 3F UL Gear one. I use a big poncho tho, if I know I will be hiking in rain all day. But for a multiple day/thru hike setup I use the rain skirt as it's really lightweight, packs compact and is multi use.

[@Songbirdstress]

Ha, I have a plastic bag in my bag for eating lunch in town on a wet bench, wet grass etc. It also doubles up as a bag :)

[@fradee2830]

Women hijacked skirts. Difficult to wear one as a man without feeling awkward, unless you're Scottish. Greek, Romans, and a lot of the Ancient warriors used them.

[@truepride11]

Love the practical advise and in person comparison in these. Experts paying forwards spreads the joy

[@horitauri]

Great video. Everything you say is exactly what i do. I also make sure my underpants are polypropylene. The body heat simply dries it out if it does get wet. If i know its going to be dry weather I'd put on a cotton tshirt under the base layer just to stop that clammy feel.

[@sfshilo]

Thank you so much for this advice. It's literally changed my entire view on cold weather gear and how to handle myself.

[@kaitlynejones]

Watching bc I live in Florida & going on my first snowboarding trip ever. I get cold so easily & I can’t even handle it when it’s less than 65 degrees outside. I feel like the clothing has a lot to do why im so miserable in the cold climates. Very informative, thank you!

[@brittr]

This is the perfect video explaining this stuff. Literally there is no other video on KZbin that gets it this well explained. The one thing that I will alter for myself, however, is needing a thicker outer layer (not North Face but that vibe) instead of a mid and outer layer. Weather depending of course, but the claustrophobia I would get wearing that many layers is intense. But that is exactly what I love about this video, it teaches everything you need to know and breaks it down so that you can make your own decisions and adapt it to how it suits you.

[@blake_pearson]

I’ve found a good base layer, a good fleece mid layer and a quality soft shell that has good wind protection effective during hiking, if it’s going to rain you can spray polyurethane on it or put a good rain jacket over it

[@OAK_MTN]

Never worn mid layers on my legs either. A warmer/heavier base layer and softshell pants do the job fine even down to -20c I do tend to run warm though and that varies between people. I'm often down to the base layer on my torso when hiking in winter if it's not windy while my gf still wears her down jacket. Goes to show how much you actually need to be adaptable and you NEED to test your gear.

[@improvwithlions4173]

Thanks for this comment, I'm a lady and I tend to run colder as well. Might look into grabbing the mid layer

[@OmmerSyssel]

There is huge difference between men and women in their ability to stay warm in a cold environment! Don't judge women on men's abilities, they are genetically way worse prepared for cold conditions!

[@OmmerSyssel]

@@improvwithlions4173 use woollen underwear from top to toe, midlayer as well, if necessary. Good quality Down clothing might be necessary on top.. Women are way more sensitive to cold weather than men, so find your own equipment and clothing style! Regards from Scandinavia ☃️

[@OAK_MTN]

@@OmmerSyssel exactly! There's not one size fits all formula out there. You got to try things out for yourself :)

[@Salazarsbizzar]

I roofed through winter in Wisconsin for 20 years. All I would wear is long John's pants and 3 hoodies. The harder you work the warmer you'll stay. Pretty simple. It could be 10 below and as long as I kept working hard I would sweat through my long John's. Fingers are the hardest part to keep from frost bite.

[@wisenber]

Fishnet base layers avoid the need to wick since most of the sweat is able to move to the next layer as vapor. If they do get wet, they dry super fast. They're great for higher activity levels when sweating is more of a concern. On the flip side, vapor barrier base layers are good well below freezing. They prevent your insulating layers from getting perspiration. They keep your sleep system more dry and reduce the insensible perspiration generated at night keeping you warmer and more hydrated.

[@JoeZUGOOLA]

And they look super kinky for when you're on a night out!!

[@wisenber]

@@JoeZUGOOLA You don't want to be in a position where you need Search and Rescue wearing those.

[@kateowens45]

Best mid layer is still wool. A good all wool sweater over a merino under layer is very warm and will keep you warm even if it gets wet. A shell over all will keep the wind off and keep you warm. For fall, spring and summer, a wool jacket will keep you warm even if you get wet.

[@Kerskjee]

Ayy! Great norwegian, you nailed it. That saying is probably the most popular one here in Norway and we're taught it from a very young age. Cool seeing it pop up here.

[@benbooth7736]

Here in Tasmania the saying goes - Never let the weather decide what do, only what you wear.

[@Nicholasskram]

Good job on the Norwegian pronunciation 🇳🇴 Anyone who’ve spent time in the mountains here would understand the meaning of that saying. Expect the unexpected.

[@AaronVets]

Great video, really appreciate you emphasizing the need to avoid unethically sourced down! 🌱💚

[@sir_bumpalot]

Löffler Transtex is one baselayer to mention. It feels great, warm and dry and I can use one set for at least 3 days of high power skiing and it is still far from the smell of pure polypropylene. And you can wash it in the machine.

[@jimvick8397]

Under Armor cold gear is so awesome... Just sayin... I still got shirts over 13 years old that haven't lost their usefulness yet... No other outwear I own has held up like that... Well, maybe the under armor and La Sportiva Lhotse boots.

[@hellenurcuyo7375]

Thanks for this vid! I live in Costa Rica by the beach and will soon be going to the Argentinian Patagonia, where weather can change multiple times a day. Such a contrast 😆 Its been hard for me to understand how to layer properly there considering the ever changing weather there. However this vid helps a lot 😊

[@JasonTaylor-po5xc]

I normally do standard long-johns (wool or synth) plus gym shorts bottoms and ski bib then put more into my torso (base, mid and ski jacket). Keeping a warmer core makes it easier to keep the rest of your body warm too. My ski jacket does have vents so if I start to overheat, I can cool down if needed. I take a ski backpack with extra layers if I find myself in colder conditions or require changing something out. The main points for me: avoid cotton and dress in layers. Waterproof/resistant when skiing. Base layers are about moisture control (wicking) not as much about warmth. Mids are about insulation and warmth. Shell is about protection from the elements (wind, snow, etc).

[@peterv3878]

thanks probably the most useful discussion on layering for adventure sports I've seen on youtube, and really appreciate actually calling out specific items of clothing you've found best

[@stuartsteele9984]

I've used polypro for over 35 years, zip turtleneck long sleeve as well as made zip polypro turtleneck base layers from crewneck long sleeve shirts. My polypro crewneck shirts have cost me $13, USA, and has lasted decades versus wool. For exceptionally cold weather I wear Mohair. My second layer for wet weather is my Alpaca sweater. For my third layer If wet and cold weather is expected is my DIY heat reflective, breathable, windproof and waterproof anorak and heat reflective, breathable, windproof and waterproof over-pants. Both weigh 6.15 ounces together. During non-wet cold weather I wear my anorak as the second layer with my Alpaca sweater as the third layer. I take my down or synthetic hooded jacket along just in case but I haven't needed to use either to date.

[@caseyhayes4590]

My first Smartwool base layer shirt got a bunch of holes in it almost immediately, maybe 1 or 2 months of use. They replaced it and the replacement has lasted two years so far. The pants from same line have never had holes. I think there's just some luck involved if wool baselayers last a long time or fall apart, same with socks really, some identical socks that lasted way longer than others. I wash everything by hand and hang dry, I think it's just luck if they last or not, I'm sure none last for decades.

[@Istenostor]

Which is that heat reflective, breathable, windproof and waterproof material? How can I get these shell layers?

[@ULperformance]

⁠@@Istenostor, I make the heat reflective anorak and over-pants for myself as well as other clothing. I enjoy wearing them, reflecting my own body heat back to myself. Due to their low weight they provide exceptional freedom of motion. They pack small in volume, good breathability, wind and water resistant or proofed. No sewing which would have required waterproofing. I use glue construction throughout. I had a hike in 36 deg F Winter weather - completely comfortable. Due to the lack of snow and rain, I wore my Anorak over my polypro base layer and my Alpaca sweater as 3rd layer, over-pants not req’d., polypro bottom base layer and hiking pants over. Trail petered-out, explored potential continuation, failed and decided to leave moving faster, developing sweat. Took off beanie, moved slower for about 10 minutes, put beanie back on and continued to my car. I buy the material from Quest Outfitters, located in Florida, USA.

[@vannemocilac274]

Hi! I’m on the Arizona trail now and have been remembering your tips for going downhill! I’m nearing Flagstaff and it’s getting colder and windier so this was a timely video. Happy trails!

[@mrnobodieswildcampingadventure]

Great video, one of the best explaining layers, especially in winter. Watched a Documentary of two hikers, one son and mum. They were hiking to a bothy station in winter conditions, high altitude, in snow! The mum died on the way, she froze to death and one of the contributing factors was she was wearing cotton bottoms which got wet, and removed essential body heat from her! Clearly cotton a no no in Winter high altitude snow conditions!

[@TheJohnnyBE]

Well, that was the BEST Winter Layering Video I've seen. Now I don't have to post one. I'll just share. 😁Thank you!

[@wychodze_yt]

Thanks for this movie. I would fully agree that the most important thing is to check the setup by yourself!

[@zarcteryx]

This was great advice. It’s good to see a positive video rather than the usual “you’re doing it all wrong“ video. This provided some good information before I head out on my first serious snow camping next week.

[@BurfieldPhoto1]

I recently got a jacket made with Dermizax... was also really impressed with it. Another base layer option is synthetics treated with polygiene. I was fully sold on merino but I tried some microgrid base layers from a local brand treated with polygiene and was blown away. Significantly less smell, much lighter, more comfortable, warmer, and dries super fast. Similar price, so not cheap.

[@OmmerSyssel]

You're not aware of the most important advantage of wool is the ability to keep you warm, despite being wet. No synthetic brings you that ...

[@michaelgoldsmith9359]

Not necessary for a base layer. The main issue with synthetics is the smell. Even then that's not a practical issue just a comfort one with most militaries supplying synthetics despite the smell. No synthetic really needs to be water resistant.

[@mountainbadgerab]

Good information! Glad to see I'm not far off in my layering. I love my merino by ice breaker. They wash with evrything else in cold water. I was even able to score a few pieces in a second hand store! What is cause for trouble is pants lenght. No one seems to carry extra extra long pants.

[@JaccoSW]

Check out FjällRäven in their raw length models.

[@MrSpork13]

Tasmanian here. Down puffer jackets are our standard winter uniform!

[@robertmangum5101]

Merino wool, cashmere, and even silk at the thrift stores.

[@nmarbletoe8210]

yup thrift stores are awesome! do you use silk, how does it wear hiking?

[@robertmangum5101]

It’s reasonably durable and low stink. I’ve lucked out finding long sleeve tops.

[@OmmerSyssel]

@@nmarbletoe8210 silk is quite durable and warm. Mixed clothing are often very good. Intensely use a liner for my sleeping bag. Follow washing instructions!

[@zachmiller9175]

@@nmarbletoe8210 I only use silk for sock liners but my 2 cents is it gets a little sticky when you sweat, and it's not that warm, compared to wool for a base layer I'd pick wool every single time.

[@ColoradoStreaming]

Just a heads up. KUIU is dumping their old line of merino base layers on their outlet site. Its $65 for a long sleeve and $55 for a short sleeve high performance merino which is a pretty decent deal. The long sleeve has really long sleeves though so keep that in mind.

[@nils_on_wheels]

Your Salewa fleece is the most beautiful retro fleece i have ever seen. Want it. thanks for the informational video- Good job brother !

[@wilfriedmestdagh1676]

Hello, Merinos + goretex + polartec = ❤❤❤ !

[@tsubakisan1147]

It is possible to get down Jackets with down treated with water-proofing compound. Montane and some other brands use Hyperdry down, which is treated with a wax compound to repel moisture.

[@the_flushjackson]

In regards to the wool being more high maintenance, I don't own a single 250 weight Merino wool piece that hasn't been absolutely tossed in the wash (on cold) and then tumble dry low'd without issue thus far -- 3 or 4 years on most pieces. I would definitely echo your sentiments about wearing each piece as long as you can prior to a wash though -- I went 9 days in 250 weight Merino through both active and sleep phases and by day 9 it was getting to that dicey point. However, 100 weight Merino (like base layer pants) I would let air dry more frequently (had some crotch blowouts on at least one pair, probably tumble dry low'd them to death). Great video!

[@joshuasmidt8595]

love wearing sleeveless moisture wicking compression under my thermal base the range of motion and ease of movement alone is huge

[@KenshoQuest]

Thanks for the clear explanation! We normally wear thin wool in hot weather, but we’re new to layering wool for cold weather. Your video helped us prepare for our trip to the snow! 🌺✈️ Heidi

[@gamer8622]

I have a northface altier down jacket and honestly it's amazing. I can wear the down midlayer by itself in well below freezing (15-25f) and still be comfortable. The top layer it comes with has never let water in either

[@ZoldarMusic]

I had a very cheap down jacket when hiking in Sarek, Sweden, a very wet environment. I love it and would bring it again. It's a great choice especially when you'll have a raincoat anyway. It is ultra-light (well under 1kg maybe?), comfortable (you can sleep while wearing it in your sleeping bag), super compact, you can fit it anywhere when not wearing it and retains body heat like nothing I've seen before! :)

[@sigurdfjernebas6498]

What is cheap in your consideration? It can be very different you know. ;)

[@JaccoSW]

I love down but I've also been in places where down would lose insulation over a couple of days because it got damp from the humidity and couldn't dry out in between.

[@gobihoukou1]

I would add that for baselayer, fishnet style shirts (for example norevegian brand Brynje), are just about perfect. I sweat a lot, and nothing beats them at keeping skin as dry as possible. They come in both wool an PP versions, although wool ones are not 100% but some combination with PP.

[@ashmaybe9634]

Turns out my grandad knew a thing or two with his string vest!

[@gobihoukou1]

@@ashmaybe9634 Well, grandparents ussually know thing or two about things one would be surprised to hear about.

[@donniebel]

I second this- I sweat a lot. Brynje has been the greatest thing since sliced bread. Haven’t found anything that moves moisture better. Only issue is I have a long torso and it runs a little short for me. Merino is just can’t keep up with my amount of sweat and when it gets saturated it takes a loooong time to dry out. Merino synthetic blend works better in this regard in my experience.

[@Foxtrottangoabc]

Yes I use mine for mtb and hiking . Also have Brynje fishnet leggings which are great . Have found i can where these under a light polycotton trouser as an example , and ni matter how wet trouser is from rain , my legs are still mostly dry and the trousers dry quick after rain finished :)

[@OmmerSyssel]

@@donniebel Don't use wool if you gets sweaty, then it's too warm for you. Bring a woolen layer to assist or exchange..

[@mezmerya5130]

I ended almost never using rain pants, but i always have alpine gaiters in mountain scenarious at the bottom of the pack. I also moved from goretex to dermizax shell, my alpine 40d one that i use with rope and harness weights just 300g, and im a huge guy. It works unbelievably good.

[@tornad8063]

I went from almost necer using them to using them quite often (in specific situations) They worked wonders on keeping snow-mud slushy away from my legs (walks moxed with crawling in snow. Also kneeling in snow a lot)

[@Songbirdstress]

I concur with how useful rain pants are. They keep you surprisingly warm in winter and can be great in summer. I took mine as a last minute impulse on an August bike packing trip. It rained cats and dogs every day and I was wholly comfortable just putting them over my shorts when necessary.

[@TheUnhousedWanderer]

I tend to overheat, so I really only need to layer up when I'm not moving so much. I sweat far faster than any material can wick it away from my body, so regardless of what I wear, I will have to change into dry clothing before I turn in.

[@davesutherland1864]

I find mid layer bottoms are good for camping in cold weather. I agree that they are generally not necessary while you are active.

[@amygee8756]

Great video, thank you. I’d love to see you do a video on summer hiking, including sun protection. I do a lot of high country hiking where it’s hot and exposed during the day and cold and pretty much anything at night. Thank you

[@pavelperina7629]

Hard to say, some technical shirt with short or long sleeve, something against rain and wind (i like jackets with membrane, but for wind and light rain some light cheap waterproof vest might be enough (i use it on bike with fleece vest, hands can survive some cold or rain shower). For night it's more about sleeping bag and insulation from the ground. And woolen hat. So for any weather I usually go with polypropylene t-shirt, then long sleeve polo neck which keeps me warm and not the light nor heavy jacket with membrane. When it's cold I can add some thick fleece jacket, but it's for temperatures like below -3C (cross country skiing, uphill), or +5C when staying still. When it's even colder I take skiing jacket and reject fleece. But I don't know what climate you have, in Alps or High Tatras or alike, you have to be prepared for the worst all the time, it can be nice weather and then thunderstorm whole afternoon even if chance is low. Extra 3kg of weight won't kill you. And usual recommendation for preventing storms is to wake up very early (yes, 4:30 is rough) and finish your trip at 3pm - or at least leave highest parts. Shorts or long pants is a choice depending on trail, if it goes through raspberries, blackberries, nettles or tall grass I prefer long ones or that can be detached using zipper.

[@alfonsomunoz4424]

There actually IS a such thing as bad weather. Very bad. That said, I got some silk long johns (top) and it's practically life changing. Very temperature regulating. Doesn't smell. Wicking. Love my wool too.

[@user-br3xs6hz2b]

Glad you actually mentioned the dark side of wearing down.

[@lins9534]

I have base/mid/outer layers from Ortovox. Wool is their sole insulation. Brilliant designs

[@marshallsweatherhiking1820]

In the summer I like a mixed cotton/polyester t-shirt, but have a long-sleeve merino wool in the pack to change into in the evening for setting up camp and sleeping. I wear polypropylene underwear, but don’t like how it feels on my upper half. It is helpful when hiking in cool misty / rainy weather though because even the most waterproof shell doesn’t stop perspiration condensation from getting me wet from the inside.

[@datsunlambchops4624]

As a person that sweats profusely, even in -30c while workingbout doors. Wool with no shell is the only way to go.

[@joelhooper8916]

Outstanding! You just saved me a lot of money on setting up my mid-layer.

[@robsancar]

Great ! Greetings from the tropical Costa Rica 🇨🇷, where sometimes you'ld be cold at some hills. Pura Vida ✌🏽😎

[@markcummings6856]

Fantastic video. Very thorough, detailed presentation. Thanks.

[@MrGreenAKAguci00]

Ecwcs has plenty of cool layer 1 and layer 2 products they breathe like nothing else and since one can put multiple layer 2 it gets really warm. Merino wool is also very good layer 1, that's true.

[@noobulon4334]

I find softshell jackets useful for warmer climates to cut the wind or deal with light rain when you really need the extra breathability a hardshell cant give you The softshell I have, even when its soaking wet it holds the water away from you such that it can only slowly soak into the base layer where it can be wicked up and evaporate

[@joshuasiulua4895]

Hi chase …I’m from the islands and don’t know how to dress for winter …thanks for the suggestions..keep up the good work, I’m sure lots of people appreciate your time , and money for helping us out…you and fam have a great day..

[@ericb.4358]

My best base layer is my BRYNJE Norwegian polypropylene FISHNET. You really need to try fishnet (synthetic or wool) to understand how well it works for not only warmth but better regulation of warmth when needed and cooling when needed. For a bitter cold day around 0 F. I can add a medium weight polyester layer OVER the fishnet and be very warm with only a heavy Norwegian wool sweater under my down ski parka. I am a polyester/polyproplene fan and don't like even Merino wool that much. I have winter socks that are part Merino and they work OK.

[@ostepop666]

A few tips: try to open up as mutch as possible of your layers while Activ. Open your fly zipper. If your pockets have nething (?) in them. Keep them open of possible. You want too get rid of as mutch moisture as possible. And when you halt and sit still. Do the job and change your inner layer. Specially if you are taking longer breaks. You dont want too get sick becouse you were wet. And change back when you start too do activities again

[@dedanthomas9921]

Humble,down to earth and informative you are. Thank you

[@brianbassett4379]

You are right about pit zips there's no downside but the cost and most people would be willing to pay.

[@discoverytrekkingoutfitter3140]

We love some of the Polartec base layers that contain silver as it really keeps the smell down. I also like Polartec Power Wool, which has the merino against the skin and synthetic knit to the outer layer, to add durability and assist in drying. We specialize in performance fabrics for home sewists.