Layering guide

How do you stay warm when working in cold environments? If you're physically active in the cold, there's a high risk of getting cold and damp after sweating. To avoid this, it's important to know how to dress properly.

The best way to keep your body warm and dry is called the three-layer system. When wearing multiple layers of clothing on top of each other, you're optimally protected against bad weather. At the same time, it's easy to add or remove layers to regulate body temperature.

Below, we'll go through what the different layers should consist of.

Layer 1: Moisture-wicking

The innermost layer should be thin and stretchy, so it doesn't tighten when you move. Additionally, it should be able to wick away excess heat and moisture from the body. An obvious choice for the base layer is thermal underwear or ski underwear in polyester, which is elastic and has moisture-wicking properties.

Alternatively, you can choose wool underwear, as wool is also moisture-wicking. Besides, wool is breathable, naturally antibacterial, and temperature-regulating.

Note that you should not choose cotton for the inner layer, as it absorbs moisture rather than transporting it away from the body.

Layer 2: Insulating

The middle layer should be both insulating and moisture-wicking. It could be a fleece sweater, a down jacket, or a wool sweater. The middle layer should be the warmest layer in the setup.

If you sweat during physical activity, you can take off the middle layer until you stand still or take a break. This keeps your body temperature regulated.

Layer 3: Protective

The outer layer should protect you from cold, rain, and wind. A good choice could be a breathable jacket with a membrane, as this ensures that excess moisture from the body can evaporate.

We recommend choosing an outer layer with taped or welded seams to prevent water from penetrating through the seams. Additionally, it should be made of a relatively lightweight material, so you can move freely.

A shell jacket or rainwear will work fine as the outer layer. If it's very cold, you can choose a warm winter jacket.

Use the layering system for various purposes

The three layer principle is naturally also suitable for many other purposes than work. For example, you can use it for skiing, hunting and other outdoor activities.