The 3 layer system for skiing

With the arrival of winter and the cold weather, we will explain how this method is effective in protecting you from the cold in winter during your outdoor activities. It will allow you to dress optimally and to adapt to any weather.

The 1st layer: 

The purpose of the base layer is to keep your skin dry in order to avoid the feeling of cold. This is why this layer must be breathable, i.e. it must wick away your sweat. Avoid cotton and opt for technical or merino wool underwear. On the other hand, think about the cut of this garment. In fact, for perspiration to be properly evacuated, the fabric must be in contact with the skin. Choose a slim-fitting cut. Depending on the weather conditions, you can adjust your base layer by opting for a long or short-sleeved model.

The 2nd layer: 

The second or middle layer is used to insulate the body from the cold, i.e. to retain as much of your body heat as possible. It is advisable to use clothing with synthetic fibres (fleece) or down (thin down jackets). Fleece-type synthetic clothing is by far the most commonly used. They have the advantage of protecting against the cold even when wet, transferring moisture and drying more quickly than down. However, down insulates much better for the same weight. For this second layer, you should favour a layer that wicks perspiration well, dries quickly and keeps its insulating properties even when wet during exercise.

The 3rd layer: 

The last layer, in contact with the outside, should protect you against external weather conditions. Waterproof, windproof, it will finish your outfit and keep your body protected from the elements, such as rain, snow, wind, while still wicking away your sweat. In the category of third layers we find Gore-Tex® or Hardshell jackets: which are waterproof and breathable. To make your choice, we advise you to pay attention to two indicators: the level of waterproofness and the level of breathability.

The waterproofness level, also known as the Schmerber level, corresponds to the level of water resistance of the fabric of your garment. A garment above 20,000mm is considered to be completely waterproof.

The breathability level is measured in MVTR (Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate) or RET (Resistance Evaporative Transfer). This is the amount of water in the form of vapour that the fabric is able to pass. The more breathable the membrane of your jacket, the better it will perform during your outdoor activities and allow perspiration to pass.

How to adapt the 3-layer system?

In some situations you may not use 3 layers, perhaps more or perhaps less. However, you should of course respect the order of the layers. On the same outing, conditions or your needs may change (during a break, change of weather, at high altitude). So remember to adjust your layers according to these variations and anticipate them by taking what you need in your bag.

Now that you know the 3 layer system, you can go skiing well equipped and perfectly protected from the cold!