01Base layer: manage moisture first
Merino wool or synthetic base layers should be chosen for moisture management, not warmth. A damp base layer will chill you faster than having no layer at all once you stop moving.
Clothing · 8 min read
Building a Layering System for Cold Weather
The three-layer system still works — the mistake most people make is in how they manage moisture between layers.
02Mid layer: build in increments
Rather than one heavy mid layer, two lighter fleece or synthetic-insulated pieces let you fine-tune warmth without opening your shell every time conditions shift.
03Shell: breathability over waterproof rating alone
A high hydrostatic head rating means little if the fabric can't vent the moisture you generate while climbing. Look for pit zips and a breathable membrane rated for aerobic use.
Published 14 April 2026