How to layer clothes for winter

Layering clothes in cold weather

If you often find yourself miserably cold in the winter, maybe you haven't discovered or perfected the art of layering. Not only do layers trap warm air between them, keeping you toastier, but they're also flexible because you can easily shed a layer if you get too hot.

If you're wondering how to layer clothes for winter, it's quite simple once you know the basics. You start with a base layer, add an insulating mid-layer and then round it off with an outer layer.

Layering basics

Start with a base layer

The key to layering is to start with a quality base layer. If it's extremely cold out and you're serious about staying warm, you should start with thermal underwear as a base layer. A long-sleeved thermal top and thermal long johns, or long underwear, work wonders on a cold day. They should be made from moisture-wicking material so that, if you sweat, you won't be left cold and wet once you cool down again.

However, on milder days, you can consider a T-shirt or long-sleeved T-shirt as your base layer. If you feel like you need an extra layer on your legs, wear a pair of tights or leggings.

If you're looking to layer stylishly, you might want to choose a base layer that will show throw under your next layer. For instance, you could wear a button-down shirt under a sweater with the collar and tails out or a long-sleeved T-shirt under a set of overalls.

Add an insulating layer

Your mid-layer or insulating layer should be warm but not excessively so. A sweater or hoodie is a great choice, whether it's made from a synthetic, such as polyester, or a natural fabric, such as cotton.

If you're wearing thermal underwear, you might want to double-up your mid-layer, wearing a T-shirt and a sweater so your base layer won't be on show if you shed your sweater. Layering a short-sleeved T-shirt over a long-sleeved thermal top can also create a cool retro look.

Finish with an outer layer

Your outer layer on your top half is your jacket or coat. If you're expecting wet weather, your top outer layer should be a waterproof jacket. However, a more breathable coat is more likely to keep you warm yet comfortable if it's dry out.

Generally, the outer layer on your bottom half will be your choice of pants, whether they're jeans, slacks or something extra-warm, such as ski pants. However, if you plan to wear waterproof pants (for instance, on a wet hike or for working outside), consider these your outer layer and your regular pants your insulating layer underneath.

Other winter essentials

While they're not directly for layering, if you want to stay warm this winter, these items of apparel are essential.

Beanie

A beanie or other warm hat can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping you warm. When it's especially cold, you might want to consider wearing an insulated beanie; you can even find some with waterproofing for wet weather.

Gloves

The right gloves keep your hands warm without impacting your range of motion too much. You may also want ones that are touchscreen compatible so you can use your phone without taking them off.

Scarf

You have plenty of options, from standard long-knit scarves to neck gaiters and infinity scarves. Those with a loose knit aren't as warm as tight knits or fleece materials.

Socks

Thermal socks are perfect for winter, especially those made from moisture-wicking fabrics so your feet don't end up cold and wet if they sweat. You can layer socks for warmth by wearing a thick pair over a thin pair.

What you need to buy for layering clothes

Rocky Thermal Underwear for Women

This thermal underwear set includes a top and long johns, forming the perfect base layer to keep you toasty while wicking moisture away from the skin. It comes in 20 solid colors and prints, including black, gray, green plaid and seafoam stripe.