Layer like a Pro

Crisp mornings with bright skies that turn into blustery afternoons with winds so ferocious your eyes run, which give way to storms by dinner time, only to end on an icy cold note. Sound familiar? Yes the unpredictable weather over winter can make planning your outdoor activities tricky. But it makes getting dressed even trickier. There’s only one way to deal with unpredictable weather – layers! Not only does each layer seal an extra coat of warmth, but also you can take them off as appropriate. Not sure where to start? Here’s our helpful layering guide, with everything you need to know from tip-to-toe to keep you warm and dry this winter!

Base Layer

The base layer is worn closest to your skin and seals a slither of air between you and it, which heats up and creates insulation. As it’s on your skin, this later collects the most sweat. Its purpose is to keep you dry by pulling moistures away from the skin and spreading it through the fabric to keep you dry and hold off the chill - occasionally they will also have thermal properties, although this is usually something a mid-layer is best for.

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Was £50 Now £45
2018 Helly Hansen Comfort Dry 2-Pack Base Layer

This pack will keep your whole body warm, as it comprises Lycra trousers and a long sleeved top. The HH Comfort Dry is the original technical base layer and designed for all sports - crafted with Lifa Stay Dry Technology and flatlock stitching, this base layer will keep you protected. It’s also non-itch (something to consider with a base-layer) and allergy neutral.

Was £50 Now £45
2018 Henri Lloyd Thermal Tights

Thermal tights are a must to keep you warm in nippy conditions, after all, your legs are your biggest muscles. Designed to efficiently wick moisture away from the body, these are made with a Fast-Dri fabric and uses silver ion antimicrobial technology to ensure you stay as comfortable as possible. Try wearing with the H-Therm Base Layer LS for the ideal base-layer combo.

Was £44.95 Now £40.45
2018 Nookie Thermal Base Softcore Long Sleeve Top

Available with long or short sleeves, this ‘does-it-all’ top is ideal as a base layer, or can be worn alone. The unisex fit flatters all and a fluffy, brushed lining will keep you snug on chilly days, offering warmth, wind protection, wicking properties and climate control. Another feature worth mentioning is the neck, which sits high like a rash vest, but has no front seam that might restrict your movement. Machine washable and quick drying, this is a great all rounder!

Was £50 Now £45
2017 Musto Quick Dry UV Performance Trouser

Developed during the 2014-15 Volvo Ocean Race, these trousers offer sun protection and supreme comfort against the skin. The material is a soft, silky fabric that’s surprisingly durable and a 4-way stretch allows for complete flexibility and movement.

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Mid-Layer

The purpose of the mid-layer is to create warmth through trapped air. As the warmest layer, you need to look out for products with good thermal properties and breathability that will keep you warm, but won’t let you build up a sweat. Typically you might go for a fleece material, or a thick woollen.

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Was £110 Now £88
2017 Musto Ladies Apexia Jacket

Breathable, warm and fast drying, the stylish women's Apexia Jacket is ideal over a base layer in colder conditions. It’s marled, brushed black knit fabric provides the versatility, warmth and comfort of a technical fleece, making it a great alternative to the traditional fleece or soft-shell jacket. The LYCRA® bound hem and cuff provide a tight fit while an auto-locking zip keeps everything in place.

Was £85 Now £76.50
2018 Gill Mens Knit Fleece

This polyester fleece has a bonded thermal lining, ideal for cold conditions. The relaxed fit allows it be worn over layers when the temperature drops, while a front zip allows for ventilation. Highly breathable and machine washable, it’s an easy to wear item.

Was £70 Now £55
2018 Gul Blouson Deck / Street Jacket

Dubbed as the ideal winter sailing jacket, the Blouson features heat taped seams and a thermal quick dry lining for added warmth. Breathable, windproof, and fitted with an YKK zip and internal storm flap, this is an ideal mid-layer that can also be worn as an outer layer, if the weather allows.

Was £105 Now £95
2018 Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Jacket

When the weather turns, this water resistant, breathable jacket with fleece lined collar and pockets won’t let you down. The adjustable fit helps ensure you get a personalised fit, while the hip length design keeps your back covered when you’re bending. This is best used as part of the Helly Hansen three layer system.

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Outerwear

An outerwear layer is the one that keeps you warm and dry! We’d recommend finding one that is windproof, as protection from harsh blows can make a significant difference to how warm you feel. Outerwear should also have a high level of water resistance, to ensure the rest of your clothing (and you!) stays completely dry.

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