Sherpa Winter Layers Guide

Layering is an important consideration for ultimate comfort and warmth during your outdoor adventures. It is important to get the right combination to ensure you stay warm in cold weather, cool in warm weather and dry all year round! To effectively layer for winter, start with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating mid-layer, and then an outer layer for protection from the elements. The layers can be doubled up for extra warmth where needed.

Many factors influence the effectiveness of clothing, including fabric type, weight, density and thermal properties. Another important consideration is the garments ability to wick away moisture as you sweat in warmer climates. Everyone experiences the cold and heat differently and perspires at different rates so it is important to think about what kind of activity you are doing, how long for, what makes you feel most comfortable and any other specific needs. 

1. Baselayer

This layer is worn close to the skin and collects most of your perspiration or sweat. An effective baselayer will wick away moisture and help regulate body temperature. A thermal baselayer is only really neccessary in cold weather and should be a snug, comfortable fit against the skin. For temperatures lower than 5° Celsius we recommend investing in some thermal pants as well as the top. For warmer temperatures you can get away with just a thermal baselayer top with regular hiking pants or leggings. 

At Sherpa we offer a good, better, best range of thermal baselayers to suit every budget. 

• Polypropylene Baselayers ($)
• Hollowcore Polyester Baselayers ($$)
• Merino Baselayers ($$$)

2. Mid-layer

The midlayer is worn between the base layer and the outer shell layer to provide insulation and warmth.This insulating layer helps you retain heat by working with the baselayer to trap warm air close to your body. The mid-layer will be a slightly looser fit to go over the baselayer but should still feel snug to help insulate and regulate body heat. Midlayers can be worn on their own in warmer conditions or under an outer layer in cold conditions. 

• 100% Australian Merino jackets
• Lightweight Fleece Tops
• Midweight Fleece Tops
• Heavyweight Fleece Tops

Puffer jackets are another popular choice of mid-layer that can worn on their own without the need for an outer layer (except in wet conditions). Down puffer jackets have a durable nylon outer which is wind and water resistant (not to be mistaken with 'proof'). Puffer jackets are a popular choice for hiking and travel where weight and size are important. Down jackets have a superior warmth to weight ratio meaning they can provide the same if not more warmth than a heavyweight fleece in a more compact, lightweight design. 

• Women's Down Jackets
• Men's Down Jackets

3. Outer Layer

Also know as the shell layer, this layer is to protect you from the wind, rain and/or snow in cold or wet conditions. The most important things to consider in an outer layer is the waterproof and breathability rating and durability of the product. This garment plays an important role in protecting you, and your other layers underneath, from the elements. A good outer layer will protect you from wind and rain while also allowing the moisture and heat from your body to escape.

• Rain Jackets
• Rain Pants
• Soft Shell Jackets

4. Winter Accessories

Winter accessories such as beanies, gloves, neck warmers and balaclavas can help keep you warm when out in the elements. These garments are often used around the campfire at night when the temperature drops and early mornings before the sunrise! We also stock a great range of waterproof accessories from Sealskinz for better protection and warmth in wet conditions. 

• Beanies
• Gloves
• Neck Warmers
• Waterproof Accessories

Our Top Tips for Staying Warm this Winter:

1. Use 2-3 layers to better insulate your body and be adaptable as the weather changes.
2. Invest in natural fibres where possilbe (eg Merino & Down) for better quality and warmth.
3. Consider fabric choice for both warmth and breathability, and adjust layers based on activity level and temperature.