Layering in autumn: the secret to fully enjoying your outdoor activities 🍂

Autumn is probably one of the best seasons to enjoy the outdoors. The colors change, the air gets crisper, and the trails are magnificent. Plus, no more intense summer heat!

But as for the temperature… autumn can also be quite unpredictable! 😉

You set out in the morning when it’s cool, the sun comes out, you start to feel warm while walking, the wind picks up, and a few minutes later, a light rain shower might arrive.

So, how do you dress to stay comfortable all day long?

That’s where the layering principle, also known as the "onion skin" principle, becomes particularly practical.

The idea is very simple: instead of heading out with just one heavy, warm garment, you layer a few lightweight pieces that you can add or remove throughout the day, depending on the temperature, the weather, and your activity level.

Start with a light base layer

No need to break out your winter gear for an autumn hike!

Simply start with a light, comfortable top suited to the temperature: a technical t-shirt, a long-sleeved shirt, or even a merino wool top.

If you're planning a more active hike, choose a breathable material that wicks moisture well and dries quickly. You will be much more comfortable once your body starts to warm up.

Add a little warmth

This is probably the layer you will use most often during the fall!

A fleece, a light jacket, or a small down jacket allows you to add just enough warmth when mornings are cool or the temperature drops.

And above all, this layer is easy to remove!

Starting to feel hot on a climb? Pop, into the backpack it goes.

Stopping to admire the view or have a snack? Put it back on before you start feeling cold.

It is precisely this flexibility that makes layering so practical.

Keep a shell handy

In autumn, the weather can change rapidly. Even if the sun is shining when you set off, wind or a light shower can easily sneak up on you during your hike.

A windbreaker or a breathable waterproof shell then becomes your protection against the elements.

When there is a risk of rain, a breathable waterproof shell is particularly useful: it protects you from precipitation while allowing the heat and moisture produced by your body to escape.

And when it gets colder, you can simply wear it over your fleece or light down jacket.

The light down jacket: your best friend in your backpack

Even if you don't need it at the start, a small, light, and compressible down jacket can be very handy on an autumn hike.

It takes up little space in your bag and quickly provides warmth when you slow down, during a break, or when the sun begins to set.

If it’s raining or very windy, simply add your shell on top for both warmth and protection.

A quick tip: don't wait until you're too hot!

The secret to layering isn't to be as warm as possible. It's to stay comfortable throughout your activity.

Starting a climb and feeling your body heat up? Unzip your jacket or remove a layer before you get sweaty.

Stopping for a few minutes? Put your warm layer back on before you start to shiver.

In short, adjust as you go!

To each their own layering system

There isn't one perfect combination that works for everyone.

A leisurely hike to admire the colors doesn't require the same clothing as a long mountain climb. Temperature, wind, rain, and your own personal tolerance to the cold can also change your needs entirely.

The important thing is to choose a few lightweight, comfortable, and easy-to-layer garments, then adapt them to your day.

Because autumn is far too beautiful to stay indoors!

Put on your layers, head out to admire the colors, and make the most of the season. 

Text by Tamy de Laval