How to properly layer for your winter backpacking trip

Shelter is not always available in the winter, and while some of us really love the winter time, no one really likes to be miserably cold. Whether you are backpacking, camping, day hiking, skiing, working, or doing anything else in the cold, wearing the proper layers is key to relieving some of the most harsh temperatures that winter can throw at us.

Proper clothing layering is essential for winter backpacking because it ensures safety and comfort by regulating body temperature, managing moisture, and protecting against harsh weather conditions (think frostbite or hypothermia). In winter, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, and layering allows you to add or remove clothing to stay comfortable during intense activity or rest, preventing overheating or hypothermia. A well-designed layering system—consisting of a moisture-wicking base layer (like merino wool or synthetics), an insulating mid-layer (such as fleece or down), and a waterproof, windproof outer layer (like Gore-Tex or Frogg Toggs)—effectively manages sweat and shields against snow, rain, and wind chill. This setup keeps you dry by moving moisture away from the skin while blocking external elements, which is critical to avoiding hypothermia. Layering also offers flexibility for varying exertion levels, allowing quick adjustments without changing entire outfits, and it optimizes pack weight by using lightweight, efficient garments that provide warmth comparable to bulkier alternatives. In emergencies, such as being stranded or injured, proper layers can maintain body heat for extended periods, potentially saving your life. To maximize effectiveness, avoid cotton, which retains moisture, and prioritize breathable, versatile fabrics tailored to winter conditions. This guide will give you a brief idea on how to take on that winter cold.

Winter layering basics

When we think about winter layers, we typically have a base layer, middle layer, and outer layer. This layering is important to keep you comfortable. Remember, you don’t want to freeze and you don’t want to burn up.

▪️Base layer: This layer touches your skin and is otherwise known as underwear. This could be briefs or panties and a shirt or bra to long underwear. All of this depends on how cold it is and what you will be doing. Always avoid cotton in every layer, and as this layer directly touches the skin, it is very important that it is moisture-wicking. This will pull sweat away from the body, allowing you to dry. Cotton is the worst thing that you can use and can actually lead to cold injuries under certain circumstances.

My base layer includes:

• Breathable, antimicrobial briefs
• Moisture-wicking liner socks
• Synthetic short-sleeve shirts
• Synthetic, lightweight long underwear.

▪️Middle layer: This layer is for insulating. This could be a fleece, synthetic blend, wool, or wool blend top. These come in light, mid, or heavy, depending again on your activity level and temperatures. This should include synthetic pants as well. One thing to consider about wool is that it can get wet and still keep you warm. The downfall is that wool takes longer to dry out.

My Middle layer includes:

• Smartwool socks (medium weight).
• Convertible zip pants. These work out very well to help regulate your temperature when on the move. If you get too hot, convert them into shorts.
• Smartwool longsleeve.

▪️Outer layer: This is your shell. This layer should be breathable if you are doing any sort of activity, and it depends on the weather. Consider a down jacket and rain gear.

My outer layer includes:

• Frogg Toggs All Sport Rain Suit
• Patagonia Men’s Down Sweater Jacket

▪️Gloves: I carry two different pairs of gloves. The first is a Smartwool glove liner. While these do not dry as fast as other synthetic blends, wool provides the benefit of warmth even when wet. Liners are also good when heavy gloves are too warm. The second pair that I carry are heavy gloves by Outdoor Research.

▪️ Headgear and neck gaiter: Use fleece or wool beanies. I also carry a sweat beanie for the rain. It helps hold heat and dries quickly, while saving my beanie for when I’m trying to get warm and dry. I also use a Turtle Fur neck gaiter. The neck gaiter can also be pulled up to help cover the ears, mouth, and nose for added warmth. If you have never used a neck gaiter, you are missing a vital layer for keeping warm.

▪️At camp: If you are backpacking, you want to have a separate set of dry clothes that you only use at camp. I use heavyweight wool socks, a midweight base layer bottom, and a heavyweight base layer top. On occasion, I will use this heavyweight top while hiking if it is brutally cold. I specifically use the Rothco Gen III waffle tops and bottoms (pictured below). They are fast drying and the top can still be used as a layer at camp even if it is wet from sweat. Slip it over the top of something dry.

Much of this is what specifically works for me. While I know others who wear similar layers, you need to know you. Some people are more cold-natured than others and require heavier weights for their base layers. However, do not assume that because you are cold that you should carry all heavyweight layers. If you have never been backpacking for instance, your body warms up significantly once you start moving. You start cold and, within minutes, start removing layers. In addition, always carry at least one pair of wool socks. If it is cold and rainy, these socks will help keep your feet warm.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of layering is crucial for staying safe, comfortable, and prepared during winter activities like backpacking, camping, or skiing. By strategically combining a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a weather-resistant outer layer, you can effectively regulate body temperature, manage sweat, and shield against harsh elements. Tailoring your clothing choices to your activity level, weather conditions, and personal needs—while avoiding moisture-retaining fabrics like cotton—ensures optimal performance and warmth. Whether you’re braving freezing temperatures or facing unexpected challenges, a well-planned layering system not only enhances your winter experience but can also be a lifesaver in emergencies. Stay warm, stay dry, and embrace the cold with confidence.