Winter Layering Tips for All Conditions

When it comes to staying comfortable outdoors in cold weather, winter layering is the best way to customize your kit for all conditions. Layering allows you to add or remove different articles of clothing in order to adjust your internal temperature. When snowboarding in the winter, layering is especially helpful as conditions can abruptly change—say the sun drops behind the mountains in the afternoon and you need an extra layer, or you’re hiking a feature in the park and want to dump excess heat, so you shed a layer.

Layering is an easy and effective way to make sure you stay comfortable no matter the conditions, but it’s necessary to understand the fundamentals of proper winter layering. This guide will outline everything you need to know about layering, including the different types of layers, how layers work together, and the factors to consider when shopping for layers.

Layering Categories

In general, there are three main categories of layers and nearly all clothing that is used outside can be classified as either a base layer, mid layer, or outer layer.

1. Base Layer: Worn close to the skin, a base layer wicks moisture (draws it away from the body) to keep the wearer warm and dry.
2. Middle Layer (or Mid Layer): A mid layer provides insulation to retain and regulate body heat.
3. Outer Layer: The outer layer is typically constructed of more durable fabrics and is engineered to shield the mid layer from wind, precipitation, and everyday abuse.

Pro tip: Include one piece of gear from each category—base, mid, and outer—in your winter layering system; this will allow you to adjust for any type of weather, adding or removing layers on-the-fly to meet your temperature-regulation needs.

Jump to a specific layering section:

• Base Layer
• Mid Layer
• Outer Layer
• Layering Accessories

Winter Layering: Base Layer

Base layers go by many names, but whether you call them thermals, flannels, or long underwear, this layer is the foundation of winter weather comfort. A base layer provides the breathable warmth and moisture management that helps to regulate body temperature and keep the wearer cozy and dry.

Key takeaway: Moisture management is key to winter weather comfort.

Base Layer Fit

A common misconception is that base layers need to be worn very tight; this is false. While the base layer does lie closest to your body, it does not have to be tight. In fact, if there is a little bit of air in between your skin and the base layer fabric, your body heat will actually warm up the air and provide additional insulation.

Base Layer Material

Performance fabrics, whether natural or synthetic, are key when it comes to the base layer. As you move around the mountains (even in cold temperatures) you will perspire, and a good base layer should wick that moisture away from your body to prevent you from getting damp. So, ditch that cotton t-shirt and make sure the first layer against your skin is specifically designed for moisture management.

Natural materials that are commonly used for base layers include merino wool and silk, while common synthetic options are usually proprietary versions of polypropylene fabrics (such as Polartec®). But which material is best? The answer mostly comes down to personal preference, and you should choose a base layer material that is comfortable and delivers the right amount of warmth.

Base Layer Weight

Base layers generally come in lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight options. These are pretty self-explanatory; choose a lightweight base layer when temps are warmer or you’re planning to exert a lot of energy (if you’re going out hiking or splitboarding, for example) and know you’re going to heat up. A midweight base layer is a good all-around choice for variety of weather conditions. A heavyweight layer is ideal for sub-zero arctic conditions, or if you just run cold and know you’ll need the extra warmth.

Base Layer Styles

Base layers tops come in a variety of styles, including:

• Short-sleeved (t-shirt)
• Long-sleeved
• No-sleeved (tank-top)
• Crew neck
• Zip-neck
• Henley

While base layer bottoms are often available in pants, capris, and shants/knickers (a length that is somewhere between pants and shorts, to accommodate snowboard boots). Select a style that meets your needs based on personal preference.

Winter Layering: Middle Layer

A common mistake made by new snowboarders is to focus on the outer layer as the primary layer for keeping warm. In reality, the most effective winter layering systems rely on the mid layer to provide the majority of insulating warmth. With that said, a mid layer can definitely pull double duty and be used as an outer layer in the right conditions, such as spring riding or a quick trip to the grocery store.

Key takeaway: Insulate with the mid layer.

Mid Layer Fit

Similar to base layers, mid layers should fit close to the body but not wear too tight, allowing proper air insulation. However, mid layers typically don’t stretch as much as base layers, so it is important that your mid layers also allow a full range of motion.

Mid Layer Material

Mid layers are available in a variety of both natural and synthetic materials, with unique benefits for each option. When choosing your mid layer, thicker often means warmer, but it is important to take into consideration the insulation efficiency of the material, as well. Thinner insulators can be extra comfortable due to their lack of bulk—but they can be pricier than other choices. Common mid layer materials include down, synthetic, fleece, and wool.

• Down Insulators aka Puffy Jackets: Down insulators offer a counterpoint to the “thicker is warmer” discussion as down is a natural insulator that has the highest warmth-to-weight ratio of any insulator. As a result, down mid layers can be very thin, while still keeping you very warm. Their thin profile generally doesn’t hinder mobility, and as a bonus, will pack down into a very small size for storage or travel. Down jackets are a ski resort staple, as their thin outer shells help block some of the wind. The main downside of down insulators is that they quickly become useless when damp.
• Synthetic Insulators: Synthetic insulators are typically less expensive than down insulators and while not quite as efficient in the warmth-to-weight ratio category, they can still provide ample warmth. While synthetic insulator mid layers typically do not pack down as small as their natural down counterparts, they are still an effective choice for staying warm while snowboarding. As an added bonus, synthetic layers maintain effectiveness when wet and are a great option for people with down allergies.
• Fleece: Fleece layers are soft and super breathable, retaining warmth and drying quickly when damp. Fleece mid layers come in a variety of thicknesses, textures, and materials, including industry-leading fabrics such as Windstopper® from GORE-TEX®. During shoulder seasons, fleece jackets and hoodies are comfortable and easy to wear on their own.
• Merino Wool: While this natural fiber is generally associated with base layers, merino wool is also effective as a mid layer material. Merino wool mid layers are a bit heavier than fleece, down, and synthetic insulators, but they are highly resistant to odor, making them a great choice for multi-day trips and outings.

Winter Layering: Outer Layer

The final piece of a layering system is the outer layer. This layer is waterproof (or at least, water-resistant) and will protect you from rain, wind, and snow to make sure you stay dry in all conditions. Because the base and mid layers have (literally) got you covered in terms of staying warm, the outer layer is all about elemental protection and less about warmth. This layer will also have the most contact with your surroundings, so it should be able to stand up to the wear and tear of being outside.

Key takeaway: Durability is crucial for the outer layer.

Outer Layer Types

Shell jackets are a great option for an outer layer as they will keep you dry and protected while allowing for ultimate flexibility with the rest of your layering system. But what if you get cold easily? Should you consider an insulated jacket? Yes, insulated jackets do keep you warm, and if you are very sensitive to cold temperatures, a lightly insulated or strategically-mapped insulated jacket could be a good choice. However, controlling warmth via multiple layers versus one heavy coat allows you to adjust to changing conditions and your level of exertion. When selecting your jacket outer layer, consider how it will work alongside your base and middle layers.

• Waterproof, Breathable Shell Jackets: The more waterproof and breathable a shell is, the pricier it will usually be, but if you need an outer layer that will perform in stormy conditions, you definitely want top-of-the-line waterproofing and breathability. Breathability is important because as you move around and heat up, the shell allows extra heat and perspiration to escape, which helps you stay dry and comfortable. Nowadays, there are also stretch fabric options that are waterproof and breathable, allowing maximum movement on the mountain. Shell jackets that fall into this category include the Burton [ak]® Collection, as well as products that feature familiar names like GORE-TEX and SympaTex®.
• Water-Resistant, Breathable Shell Jackets: These outer layer shells are great for days with little-to-light precipitation. If it’s not stormy, a water-resistant shell will get the job done, protecting you from light snow and rain, as well as wind. Again, breathability is important to maintain temperature control and comfort.
• Breathable Softshells: Softshell jackets are incredibly breathable and comfortable, but do not protect you from wind and precipitation as well as other outer layers. Many softshell options come with DWR coating for light water and wind resistance. Softshell jackets and layers like bonded fleece hoodies are great for days when the weather is mild and are perfect for spring riding. Softshell layers often feature stretch fabric, which makes them easy to move in.
• Waterproof, Non-Breathable Shell Jackets: This affordable, workhorse outer layer is a great addition to your closet, but it’s best when you aren’t planning on exerting a ton of energy that would cause you to sweat. This type of outer layer is great for running errands when it’s raining or when you’re hanging out or relaxing outside. When it’s time to really move in the mountains, make sure you change this layer out for something more breathable.

Winter Layering Accessories: Neck Gaiters, Gloves/Mittens & Socks

While not technically considered layers, neck gaiters, gloves, mittens, and snowboard socks are very important to a layering system and work alongside your base, mid and outer layers to keep you comfortable. Choose accessories that are designed for similar conditions as the layers you are wearing—for example, a heavyweight neck tube and thick, warm mittens on freezing days or a lightweight facemask and thin, spring gloves in warmer conditions.

And remember, there are literally tons of options when it comes to accessories and you can’t go wrong having a few different options in your kit.

Final Thoughts on Layering

Layering is an important part of enjoying snowboarding, because the quickest way to ruin a day is being cold and wet. Different layers allow you to remain warm and dry, but they also let your personal style shine through. So, have some fun picking out your gear. Happy layering!