Layering Guide for Athletes: How to Combine Clothing Layers Correctly

Layering Guide for Athletes: How to Combine Clothing Layers Correctly

The transitional seasons and winter in particular bring with them a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. As athletes, we want to follow our passion at any time of day or year – whether it's sunny, windy, snowing, or raining. On any terrain.

With the right layering, this is no problem. Depending on our individual temperature sensitivity, we can put together our outfit in a way that it protects us from relentless temperatures and adverse conditions, but at the same time does not restrict our movements and feels comfortable.

Over the last few years, we have been able to extensively test how our products and materials work under a wide range of conditions, whether they can withstand these and provide sufficient protection. With this guide, we want to help you find the right combination of clothing layers for all external conditions.

The three basic layers

  • 1. Base Layer: The moisture manager

    The base layer is the first layer directly on the skin. Its job is to efficiently wick sweat away from the skin so that we stay warm and dry. The material of choice here is polypropylene (light, breathable, and quick-drying) – also perfect in combination with merino wool (odorless, heat-regulating, and particularly pleasant on the skin).

    Discover Base Layers

  • 2. Mid Layer: Thermal insulation

    The second layer retains body heat and wicks moisture away. Fleece-like materials or merino wool mixed with synthetic fibers are ideal.

    Discover Mid Layers

  • 3. Outer/Shell Layer: The weather protection

    The outermost layer protects against wind, rain, or snow, depending on the weather conditions. A good shell layer is durable but still as breathable as possible.

    Discover Shell Layer

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Example 1: Running in mild winter weather (5-10°C)

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Base Layer:
Ritual Performance Baselayer Shirt

Mid Layer:
Phantom Running Thermal Quarter Zip

Outer Layer:
Phantom Running Insulated Vest

Accessories:
Arise Running Gloves, Aura Thermal Performance Headband, Aura Functional Bandana

Example 2: Cycling in very cold conditions (<0°C)

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Base Layer:
Ritual Performance Baselayer Longsleeve

Mid Layer:
Ritual Thermal Merino Midlayer

Outer Layer:
Venom Cycling Thermal Jacket Men

Accessories:
Arise Merino Neck Tube, Aura Thermal Performance Beanie, Radius Cycling Insulated Overshoes

Example 3: Cycling in rain and snow (0-10°C)

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Base Layer:
Ritual Performance Baselayer

Midlayer:
Ritual Thermal Merino Midlayer

Outer Layer:
Signature Cycling Thermal Jacket Men / Women

Accessories:
Radius Cycling Rain Gloves, Radius Cycling Insulated Overshoes, Aura Thermal Performance Headband

Conclusion

The layering principle is the key to comfort and performance in winter. The right combination of clothing makes the difference when it comes to neither freezing nor overheating. With up to three optimally combined layers - base layer, mid layer and shell Layer – we are prepared for any weather condition. Light and packable clothing offers maximum flexibility to react to changing conditions.

Any questions about layering? We'll be happy to help you personally. Simply use our contact form.

Baselayer