Stay Warm Without Overheating: Winter Layering Tips for Hikers

The Common Struggle

You start your early morning summit hike feeling chilled to the bone. You pile on several layers to keep warm, but 15 minutes into the climb, the exertion has you sweating. Now, you have to stop to shed layers, but your base layer is already damp from sweat, making it harder to stay warm later. This cycle of putting on and taking off not only disrupts your hike but also compromises your comfort.

The solution? Mastering the art of layering and adopting the principle of “Start Cold.”

The Principle of  “Starting Cold” 

“Start Cold” means beginning your hike feeling slightly chilly (not freezing cold), knowing that your body will quickly generate heat as you move. This approach prevents overheating and reduces excessive sweating, which can leave you damp and at risk of getting cold when you pause for breaks.

The Right Layers for the Job

The key to success lies in choosing lightweight, moisture-wicking layers designed to keep you dry and comfortable. Here’s how to layer effectively:

1. Base Layer: Moisture Management
   Your base layer is the foundation of your layering system and its main function is to move moisture away from your skin. Breathable fabrics are crucial as they allow moisture in the form of vapor to move away from the skin into the middle layer. This makes them more effective at keeping you dry and comfortable for longer.
• 💡 Try our Active Base Hoodie and Pants, made with 93% recycled materials. Soft, breathable, and lightweight, they keep you warm without causing overheating.
2. Middle Layer: Insulation
   Your middle layer’s main function is to keep you warm. Traditionally it does this by trapping your body heat, but in highly active situations like mountain climbing, this can cause overheating and excessive sweating which ultimately leaves you cold and uncomfortable. Look for lightweight insulation that balances warmth and breathability. Avoid thick, bulky layers that trap sweat.
• 💡 Try our Alpha Pullover, made with 78% recycled materials it is an excellent ultralight warm layer.
3. Outer Layer: Weather Protection
   A lightweight, waterproof, and windproof shell is essential for blocking wind and rain especially when using breathable midlayers that offer no wind protection. Just make sure it has proper venting options like armpit zippers, otherwise you will still up wet from sweat. 

Pro Tips for Balancing Warmth and Comfort

• Adjust on the Go: If you feel yourself overheating, adjust your layers before you start sweating heavily. 
• Breathability: In steep, technical terrain wear breathable layers to prevent overheating, but you may need some additional wind protection on ridges and peaks.
• Choose quick-drying materials: In difficult terrain you are eventually going to sweat. You want your layers to dry as quickly as possible to prevent feeling sticky and cold. 

Putting Knowledge to Action

Next time you’re tackling a summit, start with a breathable base layer and a lightweight shell. Resist the urge to overdress, even if you feel cold initially. As your body warms up, you’ll find your comfort zone without needing to stop and strip layers.

Ready to upgrade your winter hiking gear? Check out our Active Base Series and our Alpha Pullover - designed for breathability and superior moisture control.