Layering for a Hike: The Lasagna of the Hiking World

Hikers have something in common with lasagna... We both have layers!

The colder months are coming, and we need to think about staying warm while living our best lives outside, so it's time to think about layering for a hike, and other activities.

I use layering even in my day to day life, especially when I need to walk to my classes in the winter! Chances are, you probably already do some layering. So why is layering such a big deal?

Why Layering for a Hike is Important

Packing the right layers will ensure you're prepared for all kinds of conditions and scenarios. They'll help regulate your temperature and keep you dry.

You don't want to pack your entire wardrobe, of course. But you do need key items that'll cover you for lots of situations. So what DO you pack?

Consider this basic “recipe” for creating an effective layering system:

1. A base layer

2. An insulation layer

3. A shell layer

   
   

Packing one of each of these three layers will make your outdoor experience much more pleasant.

Think of it like building a lasagna...

Dang, that looks good...

But it's true! You can customize your recipe's layers to suit your tastes, but you'll always use essentials like pasta, sauce, and cheese.

Now that we're feeling a little hungry, let's have a closer look at layering for a hike!

Base Layer

The purpose of this layer is simple: Move sweat away from your skin, keep you dry, and help regulate your temperature.

Typically, they're more form fitting so they sit nicely under your other layers and have good contact with your skin. They're created from technical fabrics such as wool or polyester.

Wool is a great choice for base layers because of its anti-microbial qualities. It wicks away sweat, and helps keep you warm even when it’s damp.

Polyester is a good alternative if you can't use wool. For more information about wool and polyester, check out my sock post here!

Intraknit Smartwool Top: Perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and XC-skiing!

Shopping Hack: Check out Winners and other thrift stores for cheap base layers if you're on a budget. They may not be the most fancy technical pieces, but they'll do the job— you don't have to go broke.

Polyester base layer purchased from Winners

Base Layer Weights

Depending on the brand, you can find base layers in different weights. For example Icebreaker base layers come in weights ranging from 125 to 400. These numbers tell you what kind of conditions the layers are best suited for.

A shirt rated as 125 will be better for mild conditions, and will feel less heavy. A shirt rated as 400 suits the coldest conditions and have a thicker feel. Definitely consider this when layering for a hike.

Insulation Layer

The next part of your layering system is your insulation. Just as it states, the purpose of this layer is insulation.

Typically this comes in the form of a fleece jacket, sweater, or, something a little more robust.

You’ll use it to feel cozier and help trap heat close to your body.

There are some tried and true pieces on the market that fall under the insulation category. The Patagonia Synchilla, or the Mountain Hardwear ¼ zip pullover are good examples.

You don’t have to shop for super expensive brands though.

My favorite budget friendly alternatives come from Mountain Warehouse. Their fleece jackets and ¼ zips are reasonably priced, durable, and comfortable. I like buying the men’s fleeces because I like the fit better, but they've got great options for everyone!

Shell Layer

The next layer you’ll want to consider is your shell, or outer layer. This layer works to keep the elements out. You might choose a raincoat, a puffy coat, or something else.

Shells are also useful for cutting the wind and preventing it from blowing through your fleece and base layers, robbing you of precious body heat.

A technical note about raincoats: They come in 1-3 “layers”.

The level of waterproofness depends on how many layers are within the jacket. I’ll create a separate post about this. It’s definitely a full topic on its own, but it’s something to be mindful of when shopping for a raincoat.

If you're unsure about an item's tech specs, just ask a store guide or do some research and check reviews. Check out a website called GearLab. They do extensive testing and review all kinds of equipment!

Things to consider: Layering for a Hike 2.0

Remember your lasagna, and the basic "recipe" of base, insulation, and shell. But don't forget about customization!

You can mix and match your layers to suit your situation. Like adding mozzarella instead of white cheddar.

My hiking layer preference!

Hiking with a base layer and fleece might be enough to keep you comfortable. Or maybe you just want to throw your shell on.

You can also add to your layers by using something like a vest.

(No, I'm not affiliated with Patagonia, they're just very photogenic)

Layering for a hike is ultimately up to your preferences and needs.

For example, I typically get very overheated when I hike, so I usually end up hiking with just my tank top. Then I add a base layer, a fleece, then a shell.

A quick word of caution:

Watch out for clothes made with cotton. Cotton will become wet very quickly and dries slowly. This might not be as problematic in hot, dry climates, but it can cause blisters and painful rubbing.

When cotton is wet, it can lead to dangerous situations when hiking in areas with cool weather. The hiking community has a popular sentiment: Cotton kills.

Why?

Wet clothes will lower your body temperature 25 times faster than when you're dry.(Source)

Think of a scenario where you might become trapped on a mountain trail. When the temperatures plummet overnight, hypothermia becomes a serious concern. Even in the summer months.

If you have no choice but to hike in cotton clothes, make sure you pack a dry set for emergencies.

Opal Hills as seen from Maligne Lake Lookout during October, 2021. We had rain, snow, and winds strong enough to blow a toque off your head!

Layering Accessories

Layering for a hike isn't limited to just shirts and pants! If you like to snowshoe, but struggle with cold hands, try layering a pair of gloves under some mittens. You can still hang onto your hiking poles, and it's simple enough to pop a mitt off.

Cold rain? Throw waterproof gloves over some nice fleecy ones. Customize your lasagna!

Do you have some cool layering ideas or tips? Share them in the comments!

Rock Your Layering System!

Even mountains have layers!

Layering is pretty simple if you just keep your three essentials in mind. Once you start exploring some options, you'll be streamlining your layering system in no time! Goodbye feeling like a wintery marshmallow, helloooo superstar athlete silhouette!

What are you waiting for? Get out and hike! We're going to need the exercise for sure... Anyone else craving lasagna?

Anyway, happy trails!

~Meg