The Ten Essentials:
#10: Extra Layers
Stay warm, dry, and protected by carrying the right extra layers for changing conditions.
In the wilderness, weather can shift suddenly, and temperatures often drop significantly as the sun sets. Carrying extra layers ensures you’re prepared for any conditions, helping to prevent hypothermia and other weather-related risks. Even on short trips, a few well-chosen clothing items can make all the difference in your comfort and safety.
In this guide, we’ll explore why extra layers are essential, how to select the right clothing, and tips for layering effectively on your next adventure.
Why You Need Extra Layers
Your clothing is your first line of defense against the elements. Extra layers can protect you from cold, wind, rain, and even heat in some cases. Here’s why they’re an essential part of your gear:
- Temperature Regulation: Layering allows you to add or remove clothing as conditions change, helping your body maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Protection from the Elements: Extra layers shield you from wind, rain, and snow, reducing the risk of hypothermia or frostbite.
- Improved Comfort and Safety: Staying warm and dry ensures you can focus on navigating, hiking, or handling emergencies without distraction.
- Preparedness for Emergencies: Delays, injuries, or unplanned overnights can leave you exposed to dropping temperatures; extra layers help mitigate this risk.
Key Types of Extra Layers
Not all layers are equal! They work best when used as part of a layering system using the following structure:
1. Base Layers
Worn next to your skin, base layers wick moisture away to keep you dry.
- Materials: Look for merino wool or synthetic fabrics (avoid cotton).
- Best For: Cold-weather trips or high-exertion activities where sweat management is key.
💡Pro Tip: Choose a base layer weight (light, mid, or heavy) based on the season and activity level.
2. Insulating Layers
These mid-weight layers trap body heat to keep you warm in colder weather. One insulation layer is enough in most areas, while extreme cold may require two or three insulating layers.
- Materials: Fleece, down, or synthetic insulation are popular choices.
- Best For: High-altitude hikes, winter conditions, or chilly mornings and evenings.
💡 Pro Tip: Synthetic insulation works better than down in wet conditions, as it retains warmth even when damp.
3. Outer Layers
Also known as shell layers, these protect you from wind, rain, and snow. They are usually water-proof or water-resistant.
- Types: Waterproof/breathable jackets, softshells, or windbreakers.
- Best For: Any trip where inclement weather is possible.
💡 Pro Tip: A lightweight, packable rain jacket is a versatile choice for most conditions.
4. Accessories
Don’t forget essential layers for your fingers, face, toes, and other extremities, even if you don’t expect to use them. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes your fingers and toes!
Essentials:
- Hats: Look for warm hats that take up minimal space in your backpack.
- Gloves/Mittens: Mittens are warmer while gloves provide more dexterity for climbing.
- Gaiters: An essential for winter to keep snow, water, and other debris out of your shoes.
- Socks: An extra pair of socks is a necessity in case you take a wrong step and end up with wet boots.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a buff or neck gaiter for added versatility—it can function as a scarf, headband, or face mask.
How to Use Your Extra Layers
A shelter is only useful if used properly and in the right situation. Here are some considerations on using your shelter when you need it.
Before You Go
Bringing the right layers for your adventure begins at home before you go with the proper research and planning.
- Check the Weather: Research the forecast for your destination and prepare for unexpected changes.
- Anticipate Elevation Changes: Temperatures drop approximately 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
- Plan for Worst-Case Scenarios: Pack clothing to handle the coldest, wettest conditions you might encounter.
Before You Go
Once you reach the trailhead, follow these tips and tricks for layering your clothing.
- Layer Strategically: Start with fewer layers during high activity to avoid overheating, and add layers as you rest or temperatures drop.
- Stay Dry: Avoid sweating in cold conditions by shedding layers during exertion; moisture can lead to rapid heat loss.
- Store Smartly: Keep extra layers in a waterproof bag or dry sack to ensure they stay dry and ready to use.
In An Emergency
If you get lost or someone is injured, use your clothing layers to respond and keep them warm.
- Insulate Immediately: Add layers at the first signs of cold to preserve body heat.
- Protect Against Wind and Rain: Use your outer layer to shield yourself from the elements.
- Cover Extremities: Cold hands, feet, and head lose heat quickly—focus on insulating these areas.
Best Practices and Tips
Keep these layering tips and best practices in mind whenever you enter the backcountry.
- Follow the Layering System: Wear a base layer, an insulating layer, and an outer layer as needed.
- Don’t Overpack: Choose versatile items that can be used in multiple conditions to reduce weight.
- Be Prepared for Extremes: Even in summer, pack a lightweight insulating layer and rain jacket in case of unexpected weather.
- Practice Leave No Trace: Store and care for your clothing properly to avoid littering or damaging the environment.
Recommended Clothing Layers
The proper clothing and layers depend a lot on the type of recreation, location and timing, weather conditions, and other factors. However, these are some versatile clothing layers that work in various outdoor settings and adventures.
1. Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Top & Bottom
- Why It’s Great: Warm, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant for cold weather conditions. An industry-leader (for a reason!).
- Buy Here: Smartwool Merino Base Layer Top | Base Layer Bottom
2. Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
- Why It’s Great: Lightweight, easy to pack away, and warm even when wet, thanks to synthetic insulation material.
- Buy Here: Patagonia Nano Puff
3. Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket
- Why It’s Great: Waterproof and breathable thanks to GORE-TEX fabric. Built for extreme weather – expensive but worthwhile.
- Buy Here: Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket
4. Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Gloves
- Why It’s Great: Keeps fingers warm in cold wind, with dexterity and durability.
- Buy Here: Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Gloves
5. Seirus Hoodz Balaclava
- Why It’s Great: Use as a hoodie, facemask, and neck warmer, with high-performance fleece material.
- Buy Here: Seirus Hoodz Balaclava
6. Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
- Why It’s Great: Durable socks with a lifetime replacement guarantee. I always keep a spare pair in my backpack.
- Buy Here: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
Explore More
Return to The Ten Essentials Guide home or continue exploring the essentials:
FAQ: Extra Layers
Q: What qualifies as “extra layers” in the Ten Essentials?
A: Extra layers refer to clothing items that go beyond what you initially plan to wear for your outdoor activity. These include base layers, insulating layers (e.g., fleece or down jackets), waterproof outer shells, and accessories like hats, gloves, and socks. Their purpose is to prepare you for unexpected temperature drops, changing weather, or extended time outdoors.
Q: How do I know how many extra layers to bring?
A: Consider the following factors when deciding how many extra layers to pack:
- Weather Forecast: Prepare for temperatures and conditions colder or wetter than predicted.
- Duration of the Trip: Longer trips require more layers in case of delays.
- Elevation Changes: Higher altitudes are colder, even in summer.
- Season: In winter, bring multiple insulating layers. In summer, one warm layer and a rain jacket may suffice.
Q: Why is layering important instead of just wearing a heavy coat?
A: The layering system provides flexibility and versatility by allowing you to add or remove clothing to match changing conditions:
- Base Layer: Wicks sweat and keeps your skin dry.
- Insulating Layer: Traps heat to keep you warm.
- Outer Layer: Protects against wind, rain, or snow. This approach is more efficient and adaptable than relying on a single heavy garment, which may leave you too warm, too cold, or unprepared for wet conditions.
Q: What types of fabrics are best for extra layers?
A: Here are some general rules to follow:
- Base Layers: Merino wool or synthetic materials like polyester. These wick moisture and dry quickly. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and dries slowly.
- Insulating Layers: Down (lightweight and compressible, but loses warmth when wet) or synthetic insulation (better in wet conditions).
- Outer Layers: Waterproof, breathable materials like Gore-Tex or eVent. Softshells are suitable for less extreme conditions.
- Accessories: Wool or synthetic blends for hats, gloves, and socks.
Q: How should I pack my extra layers in my backpack?
A: Pack your extra layers in a dry sack or waterproof bag to keep them protected from moisture. Place them in an easily accessible location, such as near the top or in an external pocket, so you can add or remove layers quickly as conditions change. Compression sacks are helpful for bulky items like puffy jackets to save space.
Q: What if I start sweating while wearing extra layers?
A: Sweating can make you colder later when your wet clothing cools. To avoid this:
- Ventilate: Unzip your jacket or roll up sleeves to release heat.
- Remove Layers: Shed a layer if you’re overheating. It’s better to add back layers as you cool down than to soak your clothing with sweat.
- Choose Moisture-Wicking Layers: Ensure your base layer pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.
Q: What extra layers should I always carry in summer?
A: Even in summer, pack the following:
- Lightweight Insulating Layer: Such as a fleece or puffy jacket for cooler evenings or sudden weather changes.
- Waterproof Shell: A rain jacket or windbreaker to stay dry in case of rain.
- Hat and Gloves: Lightweight options can help with unexpected chill at higher altitudes.
- Extra Socks: Wet feet can quickly lead to blisters or discomfort.
