At the risk of stating the obvious, a midlayer sits on top of a base layer and, yes, under a waterproof or insulated jacket. Midlayers are designed to be versatile, by letting in some ventialtion when used as an outer layer, but trapping air and keeping you insulated when used under a jacket. At their best, they should be light, breathable and quick-drying. We’ve pulled together three diverse midlayers, each designed for different outdoor activities, to help you buy the best one to suit your needs.
Best for intense activity
Houdini Pace Flow Houdi
£170 at houdinisportswear.com Running, climbing, paddling, this is the midlayer you need. Why? Well, the 100% recycled and recyclable Polartec Power Dry Mesh is a large mesh grid, apparently modelled on mesh underwear worn by Swedish fishermen. On a run or climb, the air will flow through the midlayer, cooling you down and venting any sweat. But under a waterproof, those holes in the mesh trap lots of air, making it insulate very effectively.
Best for mountain activities
Haglofs Roc Nordic Mid Hood
£180 at haglofs.com This technical midlayer is designed for mountaineering, and adventures high in the mountains. It’s a jacket in itself, with two chest pockets and two side pockets. The material is a super stretchy Pontetorto, a blend of polyester and elastane. The materials are all bluesign-approved, assuring full traceability for sustainable fabrics. Against the skin, it’s beautifully soft, with a snug hood and thumb loops. It’s light at 145g.Best for budget warmth
Craghoppers Trina Half Zip Fleece
£55 at craghoppers.com This fleece from Craghoppers — long making quality and sustainable gear at brilliant prices — is wonderfully soft, cosy and really warm. It’s a jacquard fleece, with a raised pattern that is at once comfortable and also traps more air than a traditional fleece. Features include a zipped chest pocket, stretchy underarm panels, thumb holes and a half zip. And at that price, a bargain.
Did you know?
All YHA members receive discounts at gear stores including Cotswold Outdoor, GO Outdoors, Snow+Rock, Runners Need and Cycle Surgery.
How to layer clothing
1. Baselayer
This layer sits against your skin. It should effectively ‘wick’ moisture away from your skin to keep you dry. Usually, they are made from synthetic materials that dry quickly, but merino wool is also good, especially in winter as it stays warm even when wet.2. Midlayers
Fleeces and midlayer come in a wide range, but they should be able to be worn comfortably over your baselayer and slip under a waterproof or insulated jacket. They are versatile garments, that you should consider your outer jacket unless it’s pouring rain.3. Insulated jackets
In cold conditions, a lightweight down or insulated synthetic jacket should be taken. The most versatile are those you can pack down and throw in your bag when they’re not needed. It’s always good to have something really warm to pull on when you stop.4. Waterproof jackets
Waterproof jackets or hard shells are your last defence against the rain and snow. They should have taped seams and a durable water repellent treatment that beads off water. They should also be breathable — but the two layers beneath this are key for this to work.5. Legwear
Keeping your core warm and dry is the most important element, but don’t forget about your legs. All you need is some walking trousers — synthetic materials will regulate temperature. And then throw a pair of waterproof trousers over the top.Want to put your new outdoor goods to use? Our collection of unique and historic buildings across England and Wales are perfectly positioned in the best locations for action-packed holidays for everyone to enjoy.
Photo credit: Duncan Andison / Adobe Stock
