The “multi-layer” system

Sportive Plus Team Blog

 For practicing high-energy sports in winter, the "multi-layer" system or onion skin principle is THE basic rule to understand and apply.

"Multi-layering" is a layering of different clothes to be able to adapt to the outside temperature and also to our energy expenditure, that is to say to the heat that our body gives off. You have to know how to stay dry and warm and thus ensure maximum comfort for practicing outdoor sports in cold weather!

1) THE BASE LAYER

Underwear made of synthetic materials, merino wool or a combination of the two materials is designed to wick away moisture and keep us dry. Worn close to the body, this layer can be more or less thick. The thickness of the base layer can vary, either depending on the activity performed or the temperature. A little tip: do not use absorbent fabric, such as cotton for example. The moisture from the body would then be trapped in the fabric and would cause you to lose a lot of heat. In this category, merino wool, a MUST recognized by outdoor enthusiasts, is one of the most efficient in addition to being silky. It has the particularity of keeping us warm, even when wet for long-lasting comfort! In addition, it naturally resists odors.

2) THE INTERMEDIATE LAYER

To keep you a little warmer, the mid-layer is important to add to your heat layer, it provides additional insulation. Polar fleeces are often a very good choice! They trap warm air without necessarily being very thick. You can also choose any other breathable fabric, these are often breathable fabrics in strategic areas. This layer is optional, it is the one that we add as needed or that we remove to avoid being too hot and sweating too much.

3) THE OUTER LAYER “ softshell or hard shell type”

This is the layer that protects you from the elements; rain, snow and wind. Depending on the temperature, you will have to choose between a windbreaker or a breathable waterproof "soft shell" type or not. In very very cold weather, you can also opt for a small, slightly insulated "down jacket" (small quilted coats between seasons that keep you warm). Ideally, the outer layer should not be too loose to avoid any heat loss. It must allow good freedom of movement and also allow the air to circulate which allows us to retain our heat. Don't forget! Choose your outer layer carefully: waterproof and breathable, or at least breathable, in order to let the moisture pass through which will pass from layer to layer. Finally, some of these layers have openings in the back or under the armpits to evacuate moisture and regulate your temperature.

LITTLE TIP! It's always good to bring a small down jacket in your backpack to keep yourself warm during a break in front of a magnificent view or while you eat your snack. This way, you won't shiver when you stop.

In short, the golden rule of the onion skin principle is to manage the level of heat your body can produce. So, remove layers if you sweat too much and add layers if you are cold.
For the great pleasure of practicing our favorite winter activities!!!