In my opinion, the best seasons for outdoor activities are autumn and winter! The air is pure and fresh, and we’re finally free of the “infamous summer insects” and oppressive heat. In autumn, the majestic colors of the trees reappear, and in winter, our soft carpets of snow brighten up the shorter days. However, to enjoy your activity in colder weather, it is essential to be well prepared. And the first stage of preparation is dressing. The multi-layer garment system is a smart approach to dressing for changing weather conditions to changing weather conditions and planned activities. Whether you ‘ re looking for a ride in the forest, a day on a fatbike , or simply to cope with the weather vagaries on a daily basis, mastering the art of the multi-layer system is essential to staying comfortable and protected. The basic principles of this system are quite simple, and I’ ll try, throughout this blog, to explain them to you in detail.
The list of advantages of the multi-layer garment system is long. First, it’s about versatility; by layering, you can easily adjust your outfit depending on the weather conditions and your activity level. It’ s easy to add or remove layers to regulate your body temperature. Next, moisture management; each layer plays a specific role in wicking moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable, even during intense activity. Next comes lightness and compactness; multi-layer garments are often designed to be lightweight and compressible, making them easy to carry and store when not in use. And finally, weather protection; by using a waterproof, breathable outer layer, you can stay dry even in heavy rain or snow, while allowing heat and perspiration to escape.
Now, let’s talk about those famous diapers. They are divided into three categories: the base layer, the intermediate layer and the outer layer.
Base layer
The base layer is your first line of defense against moisture. Its main role is to evacuate perspiration from your skin to the outside of the fabric, where it can evaporate more easily. Materials such as merino wool and synthetic fabrics like such as polyester or nylon are popular for base layers base layers because of their ability to wick away moisture while maintaining a warm, comfortable feel.
Intermediate layer
The mid-layer adds extra thermal insulation to keep you warm. This layer can be made up of fleeces, wool sweaters , light down jackets or evensoftshell jackets, depending on weather conditions and level of activity. Fleeces are appreciated for their warmth, breathability and lightness, while down jackets offer exceptional warmth in a compact, compressible format.
Outer layer
The outer layer, also known as the shell, is your protection against the elements. Cette couche doit être à la fois imperméable et respirante pour vous protéger de la pluie, de la neige et du vent tout en permettant à la transpiration de s’échapper. Waterproof Gore-Tex jackets are popular choices for outdoor activities, because they offer reliable protection while being breathable. Softshell jackets are a versatile alternative for less extreme conditions, offering wind and water resistance as well as breathability.
I’ll leave you with a few tips for choosing and using multi-layer garments. Think about layering; each layer should be loose enough to allow the lower layers to overlap and to promote air circulation, but not so loose as to compromise thermal insulation. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can cause rapid cooling, especially when wet. So avoid cotton as a base layer, preferring synthetic materials or wool instead. Adjust for conditions; be prepared to adjust your layering system based on weather conditions and your activity level. You can easily add or remove layers to stay comfortable all day long. Backup please; Don’t forget to pack insulating layers IN BACKUP in your hiking backpack to keep out the cold, especially if you take a break during your activity
That said, the multi-layer system can be used all year round with regard to temperature and weather conditions. And by mastering the art of multi-layer garments, you’ ll be ready to face any weather conditions and take full advantage of your outdoor activities, whether in summer or winter!
