Whether skiing, ice fishing, or snowmobiling, the decisions you make around your cold weather layering will dictate the amount of fun you have. Most people who are seasoned in cold weather activities have undoubtedly figured out what works best for them. This article is aimed at those of you out there who want to get out there and try something new or unfamiliar. After all, there are dozens of cold weather activities to do out there (like visiting the Grand Tetons), and we are here to help you enjoy it.
Cold Weather Layering for Everyone
For ease, let’s just start with the order in which you’d dress and work our way out. Here’s the most basic image of what we will cover:
Step 1 – Base Layer (thermals)
This, in my opinion, is the key to your comfort for a day in the cold. If you’ll be doing a more active sport or hobby, then you will want either merino wool or polyester. Absolutely NO COTTON!
Cotton is warm as long as it is dry. When you sweat, it doesn’t wick moisture, which leaves it wet and cold. Poly and wool wick sweat. I prefer Merino wool since it doesn’t stink like poly when you start to perspire. If it is extremely cold, anything but a silk-weight-rated Merino will be fine. The silk weight is geared for warmer temps (think mountains in California or spring in Colorado or Utah). In merino wool, you can look to Patagonia or Smart Wool. Any like brands will be similar in price and content, but the price may be lower in quality.
Usually, Merino wool is a little more pricey than poly but is warmer. Some people still prefer a synthetic like polyester for multiple reasons. Those who sweat a lot often prefer the wicking properties of synthetic compared to wool. Synthetic is also not made from animal fur, so it can be argued as more “animal-friendly.”
At Patagonia, they use a ‘Capilene’ rating. Something around 2 or 3 is perfect for chillier days. A 4, or expedition weight, will be really warm and may be more appropriate if your activity is sedentary, like fishing.
Step 2 – Mid Layer (Insulation)
This part can be the toughest to determine and highly depends on outdoor temperature. My suggestion for most versatility is to get one layer of fleece for your legs and one to two for your upper body. This can be as simple as fleece pajama pants that you buy at Target as long as it’s polyester (most fleece is). The top can be just a zip-up or pullover. Polyester. Simple.
Again, if you are facing extreme colds like January in Minnesota and will be sitting around more than moving, you might consider a puffy jacket instead of fleece for your top layer. Options exist in the super-warm down or in the animal-friendly synthetics. Pros and cons to both, so pick which you like.
Step 3 – Outerwear
This is the part you see. This is the final layer in the process, and its primary goal is to block the outside elements from getting to you. This layer can come in so many forms, from one-piece ski suits to bibs or overalls to a simple jacket and pants. Make your decision based on your activity. Most of the items involved in cold weather layering aren’t seen, so this is your moment for style points.
If you will be moving and shaking a lot and trouncing through the ever-changing weather in the mountains, then you will likely want to be able to shed layers easily. That means that a cool single-piece ski suit in the store may not meet your needs as well. However, that same suit is great if it’s subarctic out and you’re riding the chairlift all day.
Regardless of what you select for your styling, be sure to read the labels for the piece’s waterproof and breathability ratings. A higher rating for waterproofing means higher protection against water and, therefore, your being wet. 10,000 mm is a fairly safe space to be in for chairlift skiing. If you think you’ll be out in the nastier conditions where you could be wet all day, like serious snowmobiling, you may want to consider something higher, like 20,000 – 30,000 mm.
Breathability refers to the garment’s ability to let moisture escape. For example, a lower rating like 5,000 – 10,000g is fine for some laidback downhill skiing but may cause you to get soaked if you are exerting a lot of energy and therefore sweating. Higher exertion activities should always aim to go as high of a rating as you can afford.
Step 4 – Accessories
Gloves / Mittens
I personally prefer mittens because I think they are warmer. However, gloves are typically better when you need better dexterity. Whatever you choose, make sure the shell is Gore-Tex if you risk getting wet, like skiing or snowmobiling. Also, I always suggest that you get a pair with a liner. Again, a poly blend or wool liner will make you most happy. Burton, Patagonia, Black Diamond, Hestra, and Volcom all make really durable gloves and mittens that have a Gore-Tex shell.
Balaclava, beanie, or ski mask – poly or wool
A MUST! No suggestion on brand since this is a simple-to-replace piece. NO COTTON (seeing a pattern?). Many of these may be acrylic, too, which is fine, but it’s not typically as warm.
Socks – poly or wool
I can’t write about cold weather layering and forget to mention your feet. Smartwool is my personal preference, but there are a lot of choices. Go with what’s called “expedition” weight for extreme cold or stationary activity.
Anything else?
Depending on what you’re taking on out in the wild, you may have to think about things like boots or gators. These can vary greatly with each activity, and I’d be happy to guide you if you have any questions. Just send me a note, and I’ll be sure to reply.
Following the information above will greatly improve your ability to enjoy the outside in cold weather. I was always unwilling to try new outdoor activities in the winter because I don’t like being cold. We’ve done the work for you, though, so you can focus on whatever your new adventure is.
Have fun out there! Send any comments or questions to us if you need any help or have anything to add. We are always happy to hear from experts and beginners alike.
