Here are some general thoughts on winter layering.

1. Base layer (moisture-wicking): The base layer is the foundation of your cold weather attire. Its main job is to keep sweat away from your skin and regulate body temperature. It should fit snugly but not be too tight.

• Material: Look for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool, synthetic materials (like polyester or nylon), or blends. Avoid cotton because it traps moisture, which can make you cold.

• Top and Bottoms: A long-sleeve shirt and long underwear and wool or synthetic socks.  (must keep feet dry)

2. Mid layer (insulation): This layer traps body heat and provides insulation. You can add or remove mid-layers depending on the temperature. Three great fabric options to look for:

• Fleece is breathable and works well in moderate temperatures.

• Down provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio but will be less effective if it gets wet.

• Synthetic insulation like Prima-loft, which comes in various levels of warmth, is very effective even when wet.

3. Outer layer (protection from the elements): The outer layer acts as a barrier to wind, rain, and snow. It should be breathable yet protective.

• A waterproof and windproof material like Gore-Tex, nylon, or a similar breathable fabric is key. It should allow moisture to escape from the inside while keeping out wind and precipitation. Many major brands have their version of breathable fabric like Patagonia’s H2No.

• Jackets and snow pants should have ventilation zippers to help dump heat when needed.

• Jackets should have a hood to protect your head from wind and precipitation.  Consider the hood size (helmet).

4. Cold weather accessories: Don’t forget to protect extremities, as they lose heat quickly.

• Hat/Headgear: A wool or fleece hat, or a beanie that covers your ears.  Helmet with ventilation

• Gloves/Mittens: Gore Tex or synthetic materials will keep hands the driest and therefore warmest.  Leather can be used in fair conditions.  Mittens are best for very cold weather.

• Gaiter: Protect your neck and keep heat in with merino wool, fleece or synthetics.  No scarves if using chairlifts. If possible, keep the mouth out of the gaiter to keep fabric dry.

• Socks: Wool or synthetic socks are ideal, as they wick moisture and keep your feet warm. Consider layering thinner socks under thicker ones for added warmth or electric socks.

• Boots: Insulated boots designed for cold weather will keep your feet warm and dry. In very cold conditions consider boots with thick soles.

• Electric clothing: Rechargeable vests, jackets and socks that can be turned on when cold, like lift ride up, and shut off during higher output activities.

• Backpack: having a well fitting backpack to place your shedded/needed layers.

My obsession with layering was taken to the next level during covid, when I took up alpine touring (AT).  With AT, you “skin” up the mountain and ski down.  Halfway up the mountain, I would often be down to my base layer, as it was a seriously high output activity and I would get very hot.   At the top of the mountain, like Ramshead at Killington, I quickly needed a down layer as I cooled down.  Some of the guys actually changed out of their wet top base layer and put on a dry layer. My backpack with a helmet holder was helpful for AT experiences as it was loaded with layers that I had shed and a down layer for later.

Some of my favorite layers:

1. Base layers (top and bottom)

   • Lightweight  32 degrees – Costco

   • Medium – Patagonia Capilene Mid-weight

   • Heavy – Smartwool Thermal base layer

2. Mid layer – top

   • Lightweight – Patagonia R1 Air full-zip hoody

   • Midweight – The North Face Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie

   • Heavyweight – Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket

3. Mid layer bottom for cold weather

   • Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Pants

4. Outer layer

   • Patagonia PowSlayer jacket and bibs

5. Gloves

   • Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Gloves

   • Baïst Mitt Mittens

6. Socks

   • Smartwool over the calf ski socks

Pro-tips:

1.  Leave a pair of dry socks, lightweight base layer and an extra pair of gloves in your ski bag so you can swap out in the afternoon if you get too wet.

2. I like to wear my mid layer hood under my helmet to trap body heat.  Additionally, if it is very cold or windy, I like to wear my outer layer hood over my helmet to trap some additional heat.

3. If you are at a resort, take indoor breaks as needed to warm-up.  You can adjust your layers as needed as well. Don’t suffer if you don’t have to. Getting your layering correct can really make the difference in reaching maximum enjoyment in your pursuit of the alpine lifestyle.