How To Layer for Winter

Introduction

Winter hiking

Winter climbing

Introduction

Layering is the cornerstone of winter outdoor wear. The clothing layers you need will differ depending on your activity.

Winter hiking requires a balance of insulation and breathability for sustained movement in cold conditions. Winter climbing demands more specialised layering to accommodate high-intensity exertion, variable weather and periods of inactivity.

This article will explore the fundamentals of winter layering and dive into specific approaches for hiking and climbing.

For more details on layering read our in-depth guide to the layering system.

Winter hiking

How to layer for winter hiking

Base layers

The base layer is the foundation of your system. It draws sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and warm. Many hikers pair their base layer bottoms with soft shell trousers for breathability and mobility. In harsher conditions, you can add waterproof trousers.

Material: Base layers are usually made from merino wool or polyester, both are ideal for winter hiking. They’re available in different thicknesses; the higher the fabric weight, the warmer they’ll be. Merino wool is breathable, odour resistant, and can insulate when wet. Synthetic fabrics are lighter, dry faster, and wick moisture effectively.

Mid layers

Mid layers provide warmth, helping to trap body heat while allowing excess moisture to escape.

Fleece mid layer

Lightweight and breathable, fleece is a versatile option for moderate conditions. But it offers little wind resistance and isn’t very compressible.

Synthetic insulated mid layer

A better choice for wetter conditions, synthetic insulated jackets or pullovers provide warmth even when wet. Synthetic mid layers have a better warmth to weight ratio and packability compared to fleece.

Down insulated mid layer

A down mid layer is ideal for winter hiking due to its warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility compared to synthetic insulation or fleece. It provides top insulation in cold, dry conditions and reduces bulk in your pack. But down loses most of its insulating ability when wet.

Shell layers

Your waterproof outer layers, often called shells, are your defence against the wind, rain and snow.

Shell jackets

Choose a waterproof and breathable material to keep you dry without trapping sweat. Look for features like an adjustable hood and ventilation zips to adapt to changing conditions.

Shell trousers

Waterproof shell trousers can be layered over soft shell or insulated trousers to protect against wet or windy weather.

Our tips for winter hiking layering

Plan for change: hiking often involves changes in elevation and pace, so be ready to adjust layers.
Pack smart: carry extra layers, especially an insulated jacket, in case temperatures drop unexpectedly or during rest periods.
Comfort is key: prioritise layers that fit well together and don’t restrict your movement, ensuring a comfortable hike.

Winter climbing

How to layer for winter climbing

Base layers

The base layer’s primary job is to wick sweat away from your skin, helping you stay dry and feel warmer. This is crucial for a high-intensity activity like climbing, where sweat can quickly cool your body when you stop moving. Some climbers opt to bring a spare base layer to change into at the bottom of a route, casting off the sweaty layer used in the walk in, in favour of a fresh dry layer.

Base layer bottoms are typically worn under soft shell or waterproof hard shell trousers. Some climbers wear all three together for added protection in wet or snowy conditions.

Material: Most climbers opt for merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Merino wool is insulating, odour-resistant, and comfortable. Synthetic materials are highly effective at wicking moisture and drying quickly. On very cold days, or when layering bottoms directly under a single shell layer, fleece base layers can provide a useful alternative.

Mid layers

Mid layers provide warmth without causing you to overheat. Your choice should depend on the conditions and your tendency to feel cold.

Fleece mid layer

Durable, comfortable and breathable. But it offers minimal wind resistance and weighs more than down or synthetic insulated equivalents.

Synthetic insulated mid layers

Provides better wind and water resistance than fleece, making it suitable for harsher conditions. But, it can feel too bulky for some and isn’t quite as breathable.

Down mid layer

A down mid layer is a great choice for winter climbing, providing excellent warmth for its weight and compressing easily to save space in your pack. It performs best in cold, dry conditions often found on higher routes, keeping you warm without excessive bulk. But, the damp and changeable UK weather can compromise down’s insulating ability when wet, so pairing it with effective waterproof layers is crucial for staying warm and dry.

Shell layers

Your waterproof shell layers protect you from the elements while allowing freedom of movement.

Shell jackets

Look for a durable material that can withstand rough conditions, such as brushing against rock or ice. A helmet compatible hood is essential in a winter climbing shell. Features such as dual tether hem drawcords are also helpful as they prevent your jacket’s drawcords getting snagged or clipped by the protection on your rack. Oversized zipper pulls are also useful when working in big gloves.

Shell trousers

Ensure they’re tough enough to resist wear and tear from crampons and climbing gear. Reinforced kick strips protect the hem from crampon nicks, and ice screw protection overlays at the hips prevent damage from ice screws on your harness. Ensure your Shell trousers are roomy enough to fit layers underneath and allow full freedom of movement, without being overly baggy. Integrated gaiters help keep your legs dry and boots clear of snow on long approaches and deep snow gullies.

Insulation

The insulation layer traps body heat and is essential during periods of inactivity, such as belaying or resting. Your belay jacket needs to be roomy enough to fit over every layer, including your shell, for those moments when you need to throw it on quickly to prevent losing heat. Keep your belay jacket in a dry bag clipped to the back of your harness if you’re climbing without a bag or want to avoid opening your bag at every belay.

Down insulation

Lightweight, packable and warm but loses its insulating ability when wet, making it less reliable in damp conditions. Hydrophobic down is treated with a water-repellent coating to retain loft and warmth in damp conditions. This makes it better suited for wet environments than untreated down. This technology is featured in jackets like the Rab Mythic Ultra.

Synthetic insulation

Heavier and less packable than down but maintains its warmth even when wet, making it a better choice for wet or snowy environments.

Gloves

A good glove system is key. Cold hands make placing gear and sorting kit difficult, and ultimately slow you down. Pack multiple pairs of gloves. A dexterous pair for climbing, a thinner pair for sweaty walk-ins, and a bigger pair of mittens or roomy insulated gloves for throwing on when stuck on long belays. This will also ensure that you have a backup should a pair get wet or frozen.

Ensuring that the wrists of your gloves are tucked inside the sleeves of your shell layer or belay jacket will help trap warmth. Some gauntlet style gloves will have longer, looser wrists designed to go over mid layers, but are tidier when tucked under your outer layers. Make sure your gloves have a carabiner loop on the finger so you can clip them to your harness when you’re climbing.

Our tips for winter climbing layering

Adjust on the go: Winter climbing demands flexibility. Be prepared to add or remove layers to match your activity level and changing weather. On windy days, unzipping an outer layer to just above the waist and removing your arms from the sleeves allows for adding extra layers underneath without risking your outer layer flying away.
Fit matters: Layers should fit snugly but not restrict movement. Pay extra attention to seams and fit around the shoulders and knees. Make sure any belay jackets, shell jackets, and shell pants have room for extra layers underneath.
Don’t skip accessories: A good layering system includes gloves, balaclavas, hats, neck warmers, and socks tailored to your activity. Make sure your hat fits under your helmet if you’re winter climbing
Be prepared: In an emergency, your layering system alone may not be enough to keep you warm. Carrying a group shelter or emergency bivi bag is essential when winter climbing.

Winter climbing kit list