Layering Explained (The 3 Layer System)

Knowing how to choose your layers could make all the difference.
A basic layering system has three important functions: to wick sweat away from the skin; to trap body heat; and to protect you from the weather.
Each part of your clothing serves a different purpose, and works with the other layers to keep your skin dry, warm and comfortable.
An effective layering system allows you adjust and regulate your body temperature when active or resting or as weather conditions change.
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If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask in the comments box below. Thumbs up and subscribe too!

[@kevinhaynes9091]

As a hiking newbie, this has been one of the most informative videos I've come across. Thank you...

[@TheNighthawk00]

Short video, to the point, insightful and correct. Perfect!

[@kcombs100]

easy video as a reminder of what to wear for layers. Living in Wisconsin, we see temp drop quickly and it's nice to be reminded of what works and what does not.

[@kiwikorean]

Exactly the video I've been searching for. To the point and easy to follow. Cheers from a Kiwi in Korea🇳🇿🇰🇷

[@angelitobolandojr.9695]

Thank you for the details.

[@bramverweij134]

My base layer wicks moisture, gives the needed warmth when active and is windproof, water-resistant and dries quickly. I bring a second layer for extra warmth when I'm not active.

[@zkfnd859]

This Kathmandu weather is nuts. It is almost 20 degrees celsius during the day. If its sunny, it feels even warmer. But the moment you step indoors, it drops to 12 to 15 degrees Celsius. Plus, as the day progresses, it stays warm until sunlight, then a sudden drop. Evening to night(10 pm) temperature plummets to around 4-5 degrees celsius with heavy winds. If you walk during the day, you are hot. If you stop, the wind hits you and you shiver. It is nuts!

[@saketnarayan7410]

As a person who's new to Canada, this was a very helpful video. Thanks for making this!

[@ellisbrigham]

Thanks for the comment! We're glad you enjoyed the video! Dont forget to LIKE/SUBSCRIBE! -Matt

[@SugaryCoyote]

Strange that someone would move to Canada having never experienced the cold before.

[@Fixin-To]

@@SugaryCoyote because it’s 40° in Summer?

[@SugaryCoyote]

@@Fixin-To Why move to a country that you don't even know how to survive in?

[@mohnishwadhwa5415]

@@SugaryCoyote Good luck going anywhere with this attitude

[@budisutrisno8002]

good explanation

[@MitulVitalie]

The best video watched so far, thx !

[@ellisbrigham]

Thanks for the comment Vitalie Mitul! We're glad you enjoyed the video. -Matt

[@muhammedtolgay1912]

me to

[@solmyr2]

Hey what about pants and extremities ?

[@user-ty5fp7vx1u]

Good video. Where can I find that beautiful blue baselayer?!?

[@ellisbrigham]

@Manuel Mendoza Thanks for your comment! It is the Icebreaker Men's 260 Winter Zone L/S Zip Neck and can be found on our website here. www.ellis-brigham.com/products/icebreaker-mens-260-winter-zone-ls-zip-neck/239130

[@andredeketeleastutecomplex]

This is just the 'official' trekking/mountainering vision of the system. Personally, I use the 7-layer system for the homeless, which I invented based on the insufficient 3-layer system. Simply use thinner layers to trap more hot air. This way also allows for 'poor' clothing to be incorporated, homeless people after all aren't millionaires, and extensive use destroys all clothing, even expensive gear. You can use high-quality organic cotton if you don't plan on sweating. Really thin fleece bodywarmers are great to separate the sleeves of your several clothing items, it gives you a bit more clearence at the shoulders and a bit more wicking at the armpits.

[@francesfarmer3874]

if you buy it second hand those layers are cheap af

[@SuperLarrythompson]

You didn't "invent" anything. Lol. Folks been doing what you talk about for as long as cheap clothes and poor peeps have been around. That being said, I've scored great layers at thrift stores. It's more about educating people than them not having access to decent layers. Nearly all of my wool socks were less than a buck from voa and most of my 1st layer shirts are from there(2 to 3 bucks).

[@SuperLarrythompson]

I wish they would dial back on the sleeve length. I get that we need a bit of over hang but like 5-6 inches? Look at those sleeves.... My arctyrx shell was was too long. To the point it got in the way when uncuffed. And when cuffed it would trap water I honestly have never needed more than an inch or two extra.

[@TO651]

Would you still recommend a 3 layer system above 20,000ft? Or would you put your parka over the 3 layers?

[@leonzhang7821]

At 20,000 feet, don’t wear the shell. Underneath anything, it’s useless.

[@MrChessgator]

Well Done! You might want to replace this video every year with updated suggestions for specific professional quality products! No junk!! Thank you :)

[@asura8495]

does one really need the newest product? even if theyre a tad better, there are many good jackets that do the job. shouldnt be a hobby to buy the newest stuff, at least if you dont have loads of disposable income

[@WaterfelonYT]

What would you recommend for people who naturally sweat more? I drip in sweat while only shirt as base, fleece sweatshirt and softshell jacket.

[@ellisbrigham]

worth looking at the fabrics you are wearing. For example 'cotton is rotten' when it comes to managing your moisture and for the layering system as a whole so choose a merino wool or synthetic base next to skin. Then layer up with a lightweight fleece (maybe avoid down insulation as fleece is much better at moving moisture away) top it off with your softshell (ensure this is breathable too) Hope that helps

[@leocastrillo759]

a jacket or anorak with vents under the arm pits for ventalation

[@SuperLarrythompson]

Vent systems and Merino poly layers.

[@TheMercer007]

Is it best to go with a tight fitting shell over a down jacket or a loose fitting shell?

[@ellisbrigham]

Hey Paul, you need to be able to move freely and be comfortable so a tight fitting shell not always practical

[@chronometa]

Should you buy the outer shell a little bit bigger than your normal size?

[@maromorostar6621]

Not necessarily, if I was you try the outer shell in the shop, or order 2 sizes from online store, and keep the size u like. All the outer shells i own all are made with xtra room in shoulders and arms so i just have them in my normal size.

[@ellisbrigham]

We'd say you shouldn't buy a larger sized jacket to accommodate the extra layers just make sure you buy good quality light weight layers to go underneath

[@TerrorFahrer]

where can i find this red shell layer? looking for a shell on my down jacket 😕

[@ellisbrigham]

Try this link www.ellis-brigham.com/norrona-mens

[@chronometa]

REI I think has a decent shell layer at a good price.

[@TerrorFahrer]

@@chronometa sounds good i'll have a look thank you :)

[@oky_achmad]

Woww

[@DRM1891]

Just to confirm - is the outer layer just a waterproof jacket, or is it a hard shell I am looking to buy a suitable outer layer, and I see on outdoor shopping sites there are hard shell, soft shells, and waterproofs. Which is the most appropriate please?

[@danceswithbadgers]

Hard shell is just another name for a waterproof. Softshell is OK if it's not going to be raining all the time, as it can cope with showers or light rain/drizzle and is more breathable. An alternative is a windshirt, which is lighter and more packable than softshell, with similar rain resistance but less durability against abrasion.

[@mehulpangtey]

What hardshell model is that. Looks beautiful.

[@ellisbrigham]

Its a Norrona Lofoten jacket - it is beautiful and sooo comfortable!

[@gcol66]

Should I buy one size bigger for my shell layer (S to M size) so my synthetic insulator or down layer (S size) fit better together?

[@ellisbrigham]

The best bet is to come in-store with your base layer and mid layers so you can try the shells on over the top. Different brands have slightly different fits and you might also find that the next size up might be too big when you don’t have the insulating layer on. Hope this helps Thanks, Andy

[@fabiogeremia8591]

What's the name model of the north face fleece mid layer? Someone knows please :)

[@ellisbrigham]

Its the North Face Glacier 100 www.ellis-brigham.com/the-north-face-men-s-100-glacier-1-4-zip-205099

[@maromorostar6621]

Go with the north face glacier pro its better

[@whbjr.6400]

Do I need 3 layer on my lower body?

[@ellisbrigham]

Usually 2 on your legs is plenty as they are constantly moving

[@santaibera7043]

What is the model of that black north face?

[@ellisbrigham]

Its a North Face Thermoball www.ellis-brigham.com/factfinder/result/?query=thermoball&page=2

[@kunalbelamkar]

Can you wear a feather down instead of synthetic mid layer and then put a Shell layer to protect from rain?

[@ellisbrigham]

Down is a great natural insulator and is breathable but if it gets wet its not as effective as synthetic at keeping you warm

[@kunalbelamkar]

@@ellisbrigham Yes, correct but already own a feather down so, I think getting a shell on top of that would solve the problem and save money maybe

[@xilefx]

well made. but why is noone talking about hot or tropical weather. merino? no merino? silk and linen?

[@ekoado3373]

Song name????

[@leifdux7277]

How do i change if it's downpouring outside? take shelter under a tree and then remove my mid layer?

[@ellisbrigham]

Great question! Navigating layer changes during a downpour can be tricky, but here's a helpful approach: Like you say, the best option might be to find shelter under a tree etc but if that’s not possible, position yourself out of the wind to avoid most of the rain. Swiftly remove your backpack and the layer you want to change while undercover, and put on the new layer as efficiently and quickly as possible. Minimize exposure by staying within the sheltered area. Practice this process beforehand for a smoother experience. Once changed, ensure your gear is properly packed away and continue your hike. Remember, staying dry is crucial for comfort and safety. Thanks, Andy

[@thedevil1667]

I feel cold only by watching this

[@BooshyBrows]

I assume this isn't for skiing

[@ellisbrigham]

the basic principles of layering are the same for any mountain sport or indeed any activity done in cold environments - its all about regulating your body temperature with the right choice of clothing

[@SuperLarrythompson]

Nah bro, just wear a tall t and a giant cotton hoodie with a pbr beanie(I mean that's what all the skiers wear)....

[@domzbu]

Wearing a waterproof shell outer layer on a Dry day is just a recipe for sweating harder and having a wetter mid layer as a result. Waterproof shells aren’t so breathable, despite the marketing. Even goretex.

[@ellisbrigham]

If your layering system is working as it should then all moisture should be being moved away from the body

[@domzbu]

@@ellisbrigham agreed, however you're still going to sweat more and need to drink more - if your outer is less breathable. Additionally, you'll wear out the DWR faster wearing a DWR hardshell under a chaffing backpack day in day out on dry days. Better to save it for the rainy ones.

[@unclebob8419]

A shell also protects against the wind. On a cold day, wind can make you very cold, it goes through mid layers. I always have a shell on through the winter, I adjust or remove my mid layers and open the pit zips on the shell.

[@NoahMyers-oo8vt]

I like sloth's.

[@kristiyan95]

If I wear that many things i need to be somwhere where is -30c. Otherwise i will die from heath exhaustion. Tshirt and a jacket on top is the most i can do 😁

[@ellisbrigham]

That's the beauty of the system, layer up as needed - too hot take a layer off, too cold put one on - the key is regulating your body temperature with breathable layers so your clothing helps take some of the hard work off you. One piece of advice is avoid cotton if you do wear a t-shirt

[@kristiyan95]

@@ellisbrigham Most shorts I have are cotton unfortunatelly. Ans I always swet alot and feel awfull afterwards. This might be it. To be honst couple of days ago I never even tough that I should think about what matterial I am wearing and all that.

[@Photalitube]

So, what about pants?

[@oldschoolbluesplayer5319]

Not one word about YOUR HANDS !

[@CundaliniWantsHisHandBack]

Gloves.

[@stevescott1962]

Um thats 4 layers? 🤔🤔🤔

[@jessenelson9768]

If you are reading this, just know that you are special. Lets someone know that you love them. Love yourself, love others, and smile.

[@fabiogeremia8591]

No one reply me ahah

[@ellisbrigham]

Yes we did!

[@paulr9591]

That’s like 4 layers…

[@anonix4078]

Would have been more understandable if you showed some skin. Thank you :)

[@jt8251]

Why does the outer layer always have to be so damn bulky and enveloping. That poor dude is drowning in that jacket.

[@kucingmenangissedih]

Sometimes to accomodate different type of Insulation jacket, some down jacket are bigger/bulky.