Layering & Breathability
When it comes to outdoor wear the breathability dimension is just as important as the water column pressure (if not more important, some would say).
Let's find out what “breathability” is.
When it comes to outdoor clothing, breathability is the degree measured in gr/m2/day to which a fabric allows body moisture to be transported through it and away from the body.
Breathable products starts working and being even more comfortable once you start sweating on your adventure, whether it’s fabric from jackets, midlayers, hoodies or other types of outdoor apparel.
Here it get's tricky. What you really want in most types of situations is a highly breathable and waterproof fabric at the same time, but this can be difficult to achieve for a waterproof fabric which is why outdoor gear that are able to combine the two factors of breathability and water-resistance is so important.
So, why is breathability so important? What is the purpose of it?
Well, alongside being more comfortable without big messes of sweat up along your body skin, breathability is a very practical feature.
The whole reason you sweat is to keep your body temperated, so when you start sweating, it can’t do its job with a none breathable product.
Sweating is the body’s natural mechanism of cooling down.
In addition to the cooling factor, wearing non-breathable clothing can lead to odor problems.
So, in general - if you are to be very active you have to choose a product that is highly breathable and if you are to be lightly active you can choose a outdoor product that is less breathable.
Look for the gr/m2/day feature on the products.
Quck Guide
Layering
From innerlayers to the versatile shells. Here’s our quick guide for layering for most outdoor activities.
There are a variety of ways to layer outdoor wear when you're on adventure. For most outdoor enthusiasts the layering rely on a classic three-parted system:
1. The Baselayer: A thin layer that sticks directly on your skin and is highly breathable.
2. The Midlayer: A thicker middle layer that provides insulation (typically from 30 gr./m.) and keeps you warm.
3. Outer shell: A strong and versatile outer layer that goes on the outside to offer weather protection, windproofing and breathable features.
Typically made from a quick-drying, sweat-wicking material such as merino wool, nylon or polyester.
The baselayer is a lightweight layer that fits closely against your skin.
Base layers purpose is to lift perspiration as you sweat to help it evaporate quickly.
This keeps the sweat from cooling on your skin and making it feel cold and clammy.
"The middle piece" that typically consists of a warm fleece or puffy insulated jacket.
For more active pursuits, you’ll want a breathable midlayer to prevent you from overheating.
The shell is the outer layer that protects you from the weather conditions. The shells finest job is to keep the layers underneath dry, blocking them from water or wind.
Normally, outer shells are constructed from materials such as nylon or polyester so they’re durable while also being in a lightweight finish.
