Technical clothing is specially designed to keep you dry and warm during winter sports and other outdoor activities. We recommend applying the three-layer system when wearing technical apparel. With the three-layer system, you are prepared for all weather conditions. Never heard of it? No problem! We're happy to explain it to you.

What is the three-layer system?

As the name suggests, the system consists of three layers. Three layers of technical clothing:

  • Base layer (thermal underwear) for warmth, moisture control, and comfort.
  • Midlayer (insulation layer) for additional warmth and comfort.
  • Hardshell outer layer for protection against snow, rain, and wind, and moisture wicking.

Together, the three layers ensure that you stay dry and warm during outdoor sports. The beauty of the three-layer system is that you can adapt it to the current conditions. In cold conditions, the layers provide warmth, but when you get warm, you can remove the midlayer. Moreover, each layer can be worn separately, allowing you to dress perfectly for various outdoor activities.

Base layer

The first layer is base layer, also known as thermal underwear. A base layer is worn against the skin and has two main functions: warmth and moisture management. When you sweat, thermal clothing is capable of transferring moisture to the next clothing layer. This keeps you dry and warm when you perspire. For effective performance, it's important that thermal clothing fits snugly against the skin. Therefore, choose an ergonomic or slim fit.

Base layer materials

When buying a base layer, you can choose from various materials: synthetic, recycled polyester, wool, and Merino wool. We prefer the natural material Merino wool. Merino wool has excellent breathability, regulates temperature changes, is soft, and dries quickly. Additionally, it prevents itching or discomfort and minimizes odors.

Recycled polyester material is sometimes combined with Merino wool and may offer somewhat similar properties. However, synthetic materials typically have less effective moisture management and odor control.

Midlayer

The midlayer is an insulating layer that can be thought of as the lining of your jacket. It is an additional insulation layer worn on cold days. The midlayer creates a still air layer around your body, which becomes comfortable due to the heat your body produces. Besides regulating warmth, a midlayer also manages moisture. A good midlayer transports moisture layer by layer to the outside, keeping you dry and warm.

The type of midlayer you need depends on what you are doing, the conditions, and your personal preferences. A midlayer should be used in a way that suits you. Some people get warm more quickly than others. In our article about midlayers, we delve deeper into the types of midlayers and their use.

When purchasing a midlayer, it's important to consider which features are important to you. To make it easy, you can filter our products based on the following 'Features':

  • Quick-drying
  • Windproof
  • Water-repellent
  • Packable into its pocket

Hardshell outer layer

A hardshell jacket and pants protect you from the elements, such as wind, rain, and snow. Moreover, the shell provides protection against scraping and falling. A genuine hardshell has a 3-layer membrane and no warm lining. Therefore, a hardshell is always combined with a base layer and a midlayer. Learn about the different types of materials in our article on hardshell clothing.

When purchasing hardshell apparel, always pay attention to additional product features such as:

  • Fully waterproof taped seams
  • Waterproof zippers
  • Ventilation zippers for instant cooling
  • Cuff and leg closures
  • Snow skirt

Fun fact: A hardshell jacket is not only suitable for winter sports but can be used year-round. A hardshell takes up little storage space, but you always have something that protects you from the wind and rain.

Why choose the three-layer system for outdoor activities?

Originally, we at Snowcountry knew the three-layer system from freeriding. When freeriding, you embark on adventures and often find yourself far from established paths and slopes. You are self-reliant and must be prepared for all conditions. When descending, the combination of the three layers keeps you warm and comfortable. But when you hike uphill for that one beautiful descent, you quickly get warm and start sweating. You can adjust your outfit by taking off and stowing the midlayer in your backpack. In short, the three-layer system prepares you for all weather conditions and various levels of physical exertion.

For which activities do you use technical clothing?

Nowadays, we recommend the three-layer system not only for freeriding but also for other winter sports and outdoor activities. Technical clothing offers many advantages when dealing with changing weather conditions and/or physical exertion. It is the perfect clothing for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, trekking, and climbing.

Moreover, the three layers of the three-layer system can also be used separately. This means you can use the clothing year-round and for more than just your winter sports activities.