How to get the outdoor
clothing formula right

A general rule when choosing your outdoor clothing is to wear loose clothes in layers. Start with a base layer to manage moisture, then add insulation layers as needed and top it all off with a weatherproof outer layer.


Comfort

You should expect your clothing to provide you with functions of breathability, wicking, rapid drying, insulation, durability, wind- and waterproofing. Comfort depends upon the right balance between these functions. On top of that you also want your backpacking clothing to become lightweight, allow good freedom of movement and to contain as few garments as possible.

With three uniquely functioning layers, you can create a "personal climate" that keeps you comfortable and protected from the different weather conditions. Most items can be used as a different layer in different situations


The Base layer

The basic intent of a base layer, your underwear, is to to keep you dry and maintain body temperature. By manage moisture and move it away from your skin and in cold climates also add some insulation to keep you warm this layer allow you to stay comfortable.

Comfort is key for the base layer.


Cotton or synthetic?

Are you still using an old cotton suit as underwear? Cotton does not insulate or wick moisture away from the body. Takes forever to dry. The only time that cotton should become a part of your base layer is if you wish to keep cool, not warm, such as in a hot, desert climate.

Ligthweight polyester, polypropylene or similar synthetics are often the best choice for underwear, since they offer a combination of moisture management, softness and thermal properties.


Long or short

You can choose long or short underwear sets or for cold climates a thermal underwear. Pick the right underwear for your backpacking clothing to match your activity and the temperature.


Layer two - insulation

The insulating layer of your clothing is designed to keep you warm by holding in body heat and also to wick moisture, picking up where the base layer leaves off. You can have multiple insulation layers.

Synthetic fleeces are the most widely used material for insulating outdoor clothing because it's lightweight, breathable and insulates even when wet. Wool is also an excellent insulator but fleece dries faster and has a higher warmth-to-weight ratio. Fleece clothing is available in different weights for different uses.


The Outer layer

To complete the outdoor clothing formula you have to add a weatherproof outerwear.

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