Mid layers

With the multiple jobs of keeping you warm, dry and comfortable – all while allowing you the freedom you need to bag your summit goals – a good mid layer is a key and often overlooked bit of kit.

BREATHABILITY VS WEATHERPROOFING While a good level of wind- and waterproofing is desirable in shell layers which form the outer face of your protection, for mid layers it’s more important that they are breathable, allowing moisture from your sweat to escape without making you feel clammy or cold.

FIT & STRETCH

A snug, close-fitting mid layer will work better under outer layers but can feel restrictive unless the material has a good level of stretch. This is particularly important for more upperbody-intensive activities such as scrambling and climbing.

QUICK DRYING

Part of a mid layer’s ability to keep you comfortable is how quickly it dries. If it wicks your sweat rapidly but then holds on to it, you’ll soon become uncomfortable. Likewise if you’re caught in a sudden downpour before you can get your waterproof on. A fast-drying mid layer is essential.

VENTING WITH ZIPS

Pull-over mid layers may only have a short neck zip, while full jackets will undo all the way down allowing more warm air to escape if required.

WARMTH

Mid layers come in a variety of forms, from thin fleece to thicker insulated fabrics. Consider the time of year, the intensity of the activity, and your own tendencies to run hot or cold when deciding how warm you need your mid layer to be.

BULK

Because a mid layer will be worn under a shell it’s important that it’s not too bulky. Warmer, more insulated mid layers may feel overly restrictive once a snug-fitting shell is pulled on over the top.

GILETS

Unless you suffer with particularly cold arms or hands a sleeveless mid layer may be the best option. It will keep your body warm without increasing bulk within the arms of your shell layer.