What Should I Wear Under My Outerwear?

Layering Under Your Outerwear

Cotton is a huge NO. If you're being active outdoors, then it's really important to wear a technical and wicking layer next to your skin (and all layers on top) so that it keeps you warm and dry even after you sweat.

As counter-intuitive as it might seem, being too warm will cause problems.
The sweat wets your clothing layers, and then as you stop, you cool down quickly. This is where technical layers are worth their weight in gold! Cotton stays wet next to your skin, and has low insulating properties when wet. While merino wool, fleece, polyester and other technical base and mid layers will draw the moisture away from your skin and to the outer layers. Keeping you dry and comfortable all day long, whether you're working up a sweat or taking the time to dwardle along the way.

Layering under outerwear (jacket and pants) is the most important part of getting dressed to go skiing and spend time outdoors in cold weather. The most essential layer is thermal underwear, which wicks away sweat and moisture from your skin. Base layers (thermals) come in a range of materials in different price ranges, from polypropylene blends, polyester to merino wool.

Second or mid layers can include vests, fleeces, woollen jumpers and puffer jackets that act as an insulating layer. It could even be a second thermal underwear layer. This layer is very important to trap and store your own body warmth. Especially if you get cold easily or have a thin, shell jacket on a super cold day. More thin layers are always warmer and more practical than one big thick one.

Hoodies and all cotton or content layers should be avoided as they soak in moisture and get waterlogged easily.

Neck-warmers and scarves can also be added for extra warmth, and of course, your outer jacket on top, zipped all the way up...


Read our fully detailed article teaching you how to layer : Plus Size Layers You Need to Visit the Snow, Skiing or Snowboarding this Winter