When the frost hits, multi-layered layering helps to stay warm even in the most severe minus degrees.
The regular winter clothing of many Finns includes practical, concretely warm layers. The most important function of the thermal layer is the control of heat and humidity.
We asked an expert what kind of thermal layer actually serves the best here in Pohjola.
– It’s supposed to keep the body warm, but at the same time move moisture away from the skin to keep you dry and comfortable, says the designer of the North Outdoor merino wool clothing brand from Oulu Helena Lähde.
He lists that a good thermal layer works against the skin, breathes actively, moves moisture away from the skin, creates a functional foundation for other clothing layers, and evens out heat without grinding or cooling.
– In practice, the thermal layer is the most important layer of the entire layering. If it doesn’t work, nothing else will work properly either.
Successful layering is about a few key things.
“Success comes from the fact that dressing in layers is not only thought of in terms of “adding more clothes on top”, but choosing the right clothes and materials for the right place, Lähde reminds us.
Especially in the base layer, the material is of great importance: merino wool is an excellent choice, because it balances the heat and transfers moisture efficiently away from the skin.
As an intermediate layer, however, merino wool works well thanks to its fiber structure, as it effectively binds air to itself, thus creating an insulating, warm and breathable layer.
When choosing a layer, it is important to assess the situations for which it will be used. North Outdoor
The purpose of use largely determines what kind of layered dressing is best for any situation and your own everyday life. In addition, when playing sports and going out a lot, it is good to consider your own activity level.
– The same combination does not work when standing still, going outside and active movement. That’s why you should think of layers as a whole that lives according to the situation and activity level, he reminds.
The basic principle of layering is simple.
THE FACTS
Principles of layering:
- Bottom floor: moves moisture away from the skin, binds heat and feels pleasant.
- Intermediate layer: binds heat, for example a sweater or wool fleece are suitable for this.
- Top layer: outdoor clothing that protects against wind, rain, frost and snow.
Material theory
What kind of material choices should be made in these – and why? Breathable, light and warm merino wool is a good and common choice in Finland.
– The most important thing in an underlayer is skin feel and moisture management. Merino wool is an excellent material for this because it breathes, moves moisture away from the skin and warms even when wet. In addition, merino wool is antibacterial, meaning it does not start to smell easily, so it is also suitable for long-term use, Lähde specifies.
– In some products, merino wool is combined with, for example, bamboo viscose or silk, resulting in a final result suitable for even more sensitive skin.
The function of the intermediate layer is to bind heat. Materials with a structure that binds air, such as merino wool, wool knits or wool fleece, work well here.
– The more air the material can bind, the better it insulates heat. The mezzanine floor can have a little space because it has to fit on top of the basement floor. But only so that the top layer can be put on without problems, Lähde reminds.
On the top floor, instead, weather resistance and protection are emphasized.
– Synthetic fibers are often the most common choice here, because they are wear-resistant, hold wind and moisture and retain their properties in varying weather conditions.
When choosing layers, the material is of great importance. North Outdoor
In addition to natural fibers, there are also artificial fibers in heating layers. There’s a reason for that.
– Artificial fibers are often used to support the properties of merino wool, not to replace them. They can be used to improve the product’s durability and shape retention, as well as increase flexibility and increase the wearability of the garment in everyday life and sports.
The amount of wool used varies in different clothes. The gram degrees of wool (g/m²) tell about the thickness and warmth of the material.
– They alone do not solve everything. A lighter gram degree is suitable for active use, while a thicker one works better in cold conditions and when stationary, says Lähde.
– When looking at grams, the structure of the material should also be taken into account. For example, spongy materials bind more air than flat ones and can therefore be warmer than materials that are heavier in terms of grams.
– The right choice is made when the gram level is related to the use, the number of layers and your own preferences.
In addition to materials, dimensions and skin feel play a key role, among other things.
– Skin feel is especially important in the base layer. If the garment does not feel pleasant against the skin, it will not be worn or it interferes with movement. The soft and breathable material helps the body regulate heat and improves overall comfort.
Correct sizing, on the other hand, directly affects the functionality of the clothes.
– The base layer should fit quite tightly so that it effectively transfers moisture away from the skin. Thanks to the snug fit, the base layer also fits under the layers that come on top.
– In the intermediate layer, the dimensioning can be a little wider, so that there is air between the layers to bind the heat. A layer that is too tight or too loose weakens the functionality of the entire unit.
REMEMBER
Basic maintenance instructions for wool floors:
- Wash only when necessary or locally, often just airing is enough.
- When washing merino wool clothes, use a wool program, a light spin and wool detergent
- Avoid fabric softener.
- Dry the clothes flat, not in the tumble dryer
Four domestic options:
Long sleeve, moss green unisex-merino wool undershirt is made in Finland. Sizes: XS-XXL. 94 e, In Ruskovia.
The alpaca layer designed and sized for women keeps you dry and warm even in demanding conditions. Pants 159 e, Ruukki Kehräämö.
This women’s polo shirt with zip is made of merino wool-bamboo material. 79.95 e, North Outdoor.
The domestic brand’s technical base set made of recycled polyester is intended for men for active outdoor activities and movement. Wide range of sizes: XS-4XL. 60 euros, Halti.
Product images: manufacturers.
