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By: Andrew Forrest - January 2025
Walking in cold, wet weather requires careful consideration of your clothing layers. A reliable waterproof jacket keeps the rain out, but what you wear underneath significantly impacts your warmth, comfort, and overall enjoyment of the outdoors.
This guide will walk you through effective layering under waterproof jackets and address common questions to ensure you stay dry, warm, and comfortable.
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Your base-layer is the foundation of your layering system. It should wick moisture away from your skin to keep you dry and regulate your body temperature. Choose materials such as merino wool or synthetic blends, and avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and dries slowly.
A thin merino wool base layer
A thin synthetic base layer
Brands like Rab, Mountain Equipment, Patagonia, and Arc'teryx offer excellent base layers tailored to cold and wet conditions. Remember, your base layer is crucial for comfort under your waterproof jacket.
The mid-layer sits between the base layer and your jacket, trapping heat while allowing moisture to escape. Mid-layer materials are chosen for their insulating properties, and the best choice depends on your activity level and weather conditions.
A selection of different weight and thickness fleeces
Different weight fleeces, lightweight, midweight and heavyweight
Lightweight and midweight down jackets
Close-up of softshell material
Winter demands a robust three-layer system to tackle cold and wet conditions effectively:
Suggested winter layering: a base layer, a fleece and a waterproof jacket
Ensure that each layer is breathable to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to discomfort and chills. For me, a base layer and fleece, along with my waterproof jacket, are generally fine for winter. If you run cold, you may want to consider potentially a third layer or a down jacket under your fleece.
For me, a down layer under a jacket, or a third layer, would make me too hot and sweat, thus getting moisture under the jacket, which is what you are trying to avoid. It is a case of trial and error to find out what levels of clothing suit you best, and then adjust that for how cold it is or how hard you will be working whilst walking.
During summer, you might not need as many layers. Your system should be adaptable for changing temperatures and activity levels:
Suggested summer layering: a base layer and a waterproof jacket
Breathability is even more critical in summer, as overheating is more likely in warmer conditions. Base-layers and mid-layers with quarter-zips or half-zips can assist with ventilation. I rarely wear a mid-layer in summer, but I always have one in my backpack in case I start to get cold or stop for a while. The summer base layer can often be a short-sleeved one, but not everyone likes the feeling of their waterproof directly on the skin of their arms.
Sweating can make you damp and chilly, even under a waterproof jacket. Here's how to avoid it:
To ensure your waterproof jacket remains breathable and waterproof, reproof and clean it regularly.
Cotton and Denim - what not to wear when layering
When choosing what to wear under a waterproof jacket, it is important to avoid materials like denim and cotton. Denim is a poor choice because it is heavy, non-breathable, and retains water. This can make you feel cold, damp, and uncomfortable if moisture seeps through your waterproof jacket or during high-intensity activities that cause sweating.
Similarly, cotton is highly absorbent and holds onto moisture from rain or perspiration, leaving you feeling clammy and chilled. Wet cotton also loses its insulating properties, increasing the risk of discomfort or hypothermia in cold weather.
Layering for warmth shouldn't restrict your movement. Opt for mid-layers made of stretchable materials and ensure your jacket accommodates your layers comfortably without being too tight.
If your layers get wet, swap them out for dry ones as soon as possible. Synthetic or merino wool fabrics dry quickly, reducing heat loss. Carrying an extra base layer in a waterproof bag is a good precaution.
Remember the rest of your body. Wear your waterproof jacket with warm hiking socks, waterproof boots, and waterproof trousers for full-body protection.
By layering thoughtfully under your waterproof jacket, you can adapt to changing weather, stay comfortable, and enjoy your outdoor adventures no matter the conditions.
Happy walking!
Yes, but ensure it's made from technical materials like fleece or synthetic blends for breathability and insulation. Avoid cotton hoodies, as they absorb moisture.
Not always. In mild weather, a base layer and waterproof jacket might suffice. In colder conditions, a mid-layer is essential for insulation.
Avoid cotton or denim, as these materials retain moisture, leading to discomfort and chills.
Yes, if your waterproof jacket is large enough to accommodate the puffer without compressing it. If not, it could reduce its insulating properties.
Your waterproof jacket should fit comfortably over your base and mid-layers, allowing for free movement without feeling too tight or bulky.
A down jacket or heavy fleece is best as a mid-layer for extreme cold. Synthetic-insulated layers are ideal for damp conditions. Some people wear two mid-layers in very cold weather.
Short sleeves can be worn for high-intensity activities or warm weather. However, long-sleeve base layers are better for regulating temperature and wicking moisture.
January 2025
