Your mid layer provides warmth by trapping body heat. It should be lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in. Don’t overdo it, bulky layers reduce mobility. One warm midlayer is usually enough.
Common Mid Layer Types:
• Fleece: Warm, breathable, quick-drying (great for layering)
• Synthetic insulation: Warm when wet, compressible
• Down insulation: Super warm and light, best in dry cold climates
Style Tip: Choose a zippered midlayer for easy temperature control
EXPERT GUIDE
How to Layer for Skiing: Staying Warm, Dry & Comfortable
We break down the three-layer system and show you exactly how to layer for skiing, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier heading into the backcountry.
EXPERT GUIDE
How to Layer for Skiing: Staying Warm, Dry & Comfortable
We break down the three-layer system and show you exactly how to layer for skiing, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier heading into the backcountry.
Why Layering Matters
Why Layering Matters
Proper layering is the secret to staying warm, dry, and comfortable in all skiing conditions—from freezing powder days to warm spring laps. A smart layering system keeps your body temperature regulated, moisture managed, and allows you to adjust easily as conditions change. Skiing involves a mix of high-output activity (like hiking or carving turns) and inactive moments (like sitting on a chairlift).
A good layering system adapts with you throughout the day. The key is to use layers that help to:
Insulate when you’re cold
Breathe when you’re active
Protect you from wind, snow, and moisture
Proper layering is the secret to staying warm, dry, and comfortable in all skiing conditions—from freezing powder days to warm spring laps. A smart layering system keeps your body temperature regulated, moisture managed, and allows you to adjust easily as conditions change. Skiing involves a mix of high-output activity (like hiking or carving turns) and inactive moments (like sitting on a chairlift).
A good layering system adapts with you throughout the day. The key is to use layers that help to:
Insulate when you’re cold
Breathe when you’re active
Protect you from wind, snow, and moisture
Mid Layer: Zenith Down Jacket
[1] Base Layer: The Moisture Manager
[1] Base Layer: The Moisture Manager
Momentum Base Layer
Your base layer sits directly against your skin and wicks moisture away to keep you dry. Wet skin = cold skier. Pro Tip: Layer thickness can vary. Use lightweight for warmer days, midweight or heavyweight for cold weather.
What to Look For:
• Materials: Merino wool or synthetic (polyester or blends)
• Avoid cotton: It holds moisture and chills your body
• Fit: Snug but comfortable, not restrictive
Base Layer Essentials:
• Top: Long-sleeve, crew or zip-neck
• Bottoms: Thermal tights or long underwear
• Optional: Thin liner gloves and moisture-wicking underwear
Momentum Base Layer
Your base layer sits directly against your skin and wicks moisture away to keep you dry. Wet skin = cold skier. Pro Tip: Layer thickness can vary. Use lightweight for warmer days, midweight or heavyweight for cold weather.
What to Look For:
• Materials: Merino wool or synthetic (polyester or blends)
• Avoid cotton – it holds moisture and chills your body
• Fit: Snug but comfortable, not restrictive
Base Layer Essentials:
• Top: Long-sleeve, crew or zip-neck
• Bottoms: Thermal tights or long underwear
• Optional: Thin liner gloves and moisture-wicking underwear
[2] Mid Layer: The Insulation Layer
[2] Mid Layer: The Insulation Layer
Your mid layer provides warmth by trapping body heat. It should be lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in. Don’t overdo it, bulky layers reduce mobility. One warm midlayer is usually enough.
Common Mid Layer Types:
• Fleece: Warm, breathable, quick-drying (great for layering)
• Synthetic insulation: Warm when wet, compressible
• Down insulation: Super warm and light, best in dry cold climates
Style Tip: Choose a zippered midlayer for easy temperature control
Zenith Down Jacket as a Mid Layer
Zenith Down Jacket as a Mid Layer
Your mid layer provides warmth by trapping body heat. It should be lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in. Don’t overdo it, bulky layers reduce mobility. One warm midlayer is usually enough.
Common Mid Layer Types:
• Fleece: Warm, breathable, quick-drying (great for layering)
• Synthetic insulation: Warm when wet, compressible
• Down insulation: Super warm and light, best in dry cold climates
Style Tip: Choose a zippered midlayer for easy temperature control
[3] Outer Layer: The Weather Shield
[3] Outer Layer: The Weather Shield
Solitaire Shell Jackets and Bibs
Your outer layer (jacket and pants) protects against wind, snow, and moisture. Your first line of defense from the elements. Match your outerwear to your conditions. Shells are great for active or warmer days; insulation is best for cold lift rides or static activities.
Two Main Types:
• Shells: Waterproof and breathable, but no insulation. Great for layering flexibility.
• Insulated Jackets/Pants: Combine weatherproofing and warmth in one piece—ideal for resort skiing or cold climates.
Must Have Features:
• Waterproof/breathable fabric (EXO Shield)
• Fully taped seams
• Vents (pit zips or thigh vents) for heat regulation
• Powder skirt, helmet-compatible hood, and wrist gaiters
Solitaire Shell Jackets and Bibs
Your outer layer (jacket and pants) protects against wind, snow, and moisture. Your first line of defense from the elements. Match your outerwear to your conditions. Shells are great for active or warmer days; insulation is best for cold lift rides or static activities.
Two Main Types:
• Shells: Waterproof and breathable, but no insulation. Great for layering flexibility.
• Insulated Jackets/Pants: Combine weatherproofing and warmth in one piece—ideal for resort skiing or cold climates.
Must Have Features:
• Waterproof/breathable fabric (EXO Shield)
• Fully taped seams
• Vents (pit zips or thigh vents) for heat regulation
• Powder skirt, helmet-compatible hood, and wrist gaiters
Accessories to Layer Smart
Accessories to Layer Smart
Layering isn’t just about jackets and pants. Accessories make a huge difference. Important: Don’t double up socks! It cuts off circulation and makes your feet colder.
Layering isn’t just about jackets and pants. Accessories make a huge difference. Important: Don’t double up socks! It cuts off circulation and makes your feet colder.
Neck Gaiter
Adjustable protection from cold and wind.
Gloves or Mittens
Keeping your hands warm and dry.
Beanie
Head coverage when not wearing a helmet.
Ski Socks
Merino or synthetic, one pair at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is layering important for skiing?
Layering allows skiers to regulate body temperature and stay dry by adjusting for weather and activity levels. A proper ski layering system keeps you warm on cold lifts, cool during high-output runs, and dry in wet or snowy conditions.
What makes a good base layer for skiing?
A quality ski base layer should be moisture-wicking, breathable, and non-cotton. Materials like merino wool or technical synthetic fabrics help keep sweat off your skin, preventing chills and improving overall comfort.
Should I wear more than one midlayer?
In most conditions, a single ski midlayer is enough. Choose insulated jackets, fleece, or lightweight down depending on the temperature and your activity level. For extremely cold days, you can layer a thin fleece under a puffier insulated piece for added warmth.
Do I still need layers under an insulated ski jacket?
Yes, even with an insulated ski jacket, you should still wear a base layer and possibly a light midlayer on colder days. This allows for temperature regulation and adds comfort without sacrificing mobility or breathability.
What’s the best outer layer for skiing?
The best ski outer layer is one that is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Choose a ski shell for versatility and layering flexibility, or go with an insulated ski jacket and pants for added warmth and simplicity in cold conditions.
How should I adjust my layers for changing weather?
In cold or stormy weather, wear a thermal base layer, insulated midlayer, and waterproof shell. On warmer or spring days, opt for a light base layer and breathable ski shell only. The key to proper ski layering is being able to add or remove layers as conditions shift.
What should I wear under my ski pants?
Under ski pants, you should wear a moisture-wicking base layer, typically lightweight or midweight thermal bottoms made from synthetic or merino wool. Avoid cotton, as it holds moisture and can make you cold during activity.