FIRST LAYER - MOISTURE WICKING CLOTHING
What, specifically should you use for layers? This brings us to the second key of dressing for optimum performance and safety, having wicking clothing as your base layer next to your skin. Moisture wicking clothing is made from synthetic fabrics that work to quickly remove sweat and moisture from your body in order to evaporate it, thus keeping you dry and comfortable. You don’t want hypothermia and having a base layer such as cotton will just retain the sweat and if you have apparel soaked with sweat and moisture next to your body, you’ll not only be uncomfortable but you will also run the risk of getting hypothermia. The freezing season holds no prisoners when up against those insufficiently armed against her.
Wicking (also known as breathable) products have synthetic materials like nylon, lycra, polyester or a blend of these fabrics. There are also specialized wool blends that are even warmer, but these tend to be more expensive. North Face and Marmot are two brands that design high-quality performance, moisture wicking clothes that I trust and recommend. However, your big box stores will also have inexpensive, generic wicking clothing. Check the labels to make sure there is no cotton in the blend. Keeping your feet warm is imperative also and you can accomplish this by wearing a thin, wicking sock underneath a heavier hiking sock. Water proof, insulated boots are imperative.
ADDITIONAL LAYERS
Your second layer should be a vest, fleece, or wool product to keep you warm in colder temperatures. I usually wear a second wicking, polyester or polypropylene blend, followed by a third layer which is a water resistant Marmot vest that can be my final layer should the conditions be mild enough to forgo the final layer. That final layer should be a shell jacket and pants (usually made of Gore Tex) that are water proof to protect you from wind and rain/snow. The netting features these products have on the inside will further assist in venting out that moisture.