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The three-layer ski outfit

Tech ski outfit for women
The history of mankind has been marked by great discoveries : gravity, printing, the steam engine, and the three-layer principle for ski clothing. Although the adoption of the three-layer ski outfit certainly did not require the intervention of great scientists and other genius inventors, it is nonetheless a real improvement in comfort and performance for skiers, snowboarders and other winter sports enthusiasts. And if you don't know what it is, here's a little tutorial to get you up to date.

Core insights

  • The 3-layer system optimises warmth, breathability and waterproofness in the mountains
  • The base layer should be technical and moisture-wicking (avoid cotton at all costs)
  • Favour merino wool for its insulating and odour-resistant properties
  • The mid layer provides insulation, often a fleece or technical down jacket
  • The outer hardshell layer shields you from the elements with a waterproof-breathable membrane
  • Adjust your layering system according to activity and weather conditions for optimal thermal comfort
Men's tech ski outfit

" To keep warm, wear three layers "

There is nothing very complicated about the three-layer principle. It's a question of superimposing three technical layers on the upper body, each with a specific role. The combination allows you to maintain a good thermal insulation against the cold of the mountains, good breathability to evacuate any excess heat, and a good level of water resistance to protect you from the elements (snow, rain, etc). When participating in winter sports, it is important to have clothing that is particularly suitable for the upper body, as this is a part of the body that is very sensitive to cold, significantly more so than the legs. 
thermal ski base layer

The first layer to convey moisture

Essential to ensure the entire system works efficiently, the base layer must absolutely be technical. It is also referred to as a second skin, first layer, base layer, comfort layer, t-shirt, or thermal underwear. Forget cotton for skiing—it’s the quickest way to accumulate sweat and feel cold. Instead, opt for a highly breathable top that dries quickly.

You can choose base layers made from either natural or synthetic materials. Among natural options, there’s Merino wool, praised for its fineness, excellent breathability, insulation, and antibacterial properties. Among synthetic materials, polyester and acrylic are commonly used, often blended with elastane to provide greater freedom of movement.

Pro tip: When ski touring, snowshoeing, or splitboarding, it’s a good idea to carry a spare base layer in your pack. After sweating on the way up, quickly changing into a dry garment at the summit makes the descent far more enjoyable.

The second layer that insulates you from the cold

The role of the second layer is to insulate you from the cold, as an intermediary between the first and the outer layer. However, it is in direct contact with the first layer and is consequently subject to your perspiration. It must therefore also be breathable. In general, a technical fleece type second layer is chosen. But you can also choose a second layer such as a sleeveless waistcoat with an insulation lining. 

The third layer that protects you from the elements

The third and final layer is the « hardshell », the shell that protects everything. We're not talking about a solid shell that protects you from shock, but a piece of clothing with a waterproof and breathable membrane that protects you from moisture in the form of snow and rain, while permitting excess heat to escape. This is the ski jacket, which may or may not have insulation, depending on your practice, conditions and preferences. 
To help you select the right jacket, please visit our dedicated tutorial.

Adapting your three-layer system to the prevailing weather conditions

The advantage of the three-layer suit is that it is adaptable and therefore versatile. You can adapt it to the conditions, for example by adopting a thicker or lighter fleece depending on the temperature. In ski touring, you can ascend with a thermal tshirt and jacket, then put on your mid-layer before the descent. Finally, if the conditions are mild during your day, you can also choose to wear two layers: a well breathable first layer and a jacket that is both insulated and breathable. In any case, remember that each layer must be breathable so as not to trap perspiration, which would rapidly keep you cold.