Knowing how to choose the second layer of clothing when doing outdoor sports activities is very important to be able to do them comfortably. It is crucial to avoid excessive heat or cold, and also to withstand temperature changes.
The importance of the second layer
The second layer is the one that will be responsible for protecting the body from the cold and maintaining the body's heat. That is why it is essential to wear it in winter during outdoor activities, especially if they are long-term. Normally, in trekking clothing , fiber t-shirts or garments made with fleece lining are usually used as a second layer on top.
This type of fabric is the most suitable, since it weighs little and takes up little space, provides warmth, dries quickly, has hardly any volume and is breathable. In addition, it prevents the feeling of humidity caused by sweat. This means that movements are not limited and the athlete is comfortable at all times.
This fabric retains the heat generated by the body, thus preventing cooling and maintaining body temperature. Provides convenience and comfort while the sporting activity lasts. On many occasions the user focuses on choosing second layers for the upper part of the body. However, it must be taken into account that the head and legs must also be properly protected.
In most cases, trekking pants usually have different layers. These garments are manufactured in a specific way so that they can retain body heat, while insulating against cold and water. For the head part, it must be taken into account that using wool hats is the best option. Even if the second layer has a hood, this will ensure that the head, which is one of the main points through which body heat is lost, is always protected.
Likewise, it is also a good idea to wear panties to protect your throat from the cold. Both hats and panties are easy items to store in case you have to do without them.
The keys to making the right choice
When choosing the second layer, specific characteristics must be taken into account . If it takes up too much volume or weighs too much, it can limit movements and make the user uncomfortable. There are different types depending on the use you want to give it. You can opt for a second inner layer that is accompanied by a third layer, or choose a second layer that combines the two.
For this reason, with the evolution of sports fashion, there are more and more models on the market that adapt to the type of sport. It is also important that they adjust to the temperature to which you will be exposed.
wool jacket
When choosing thermal clothing, wool is a great option, since it is a natural, hypoallergenic, very light material that evaporates moisture well. This fabric is very useful when used in cold climates. Therefore, both during winter and in mountain activities, it is a great option. It has a great capacity to maintain body temperature.
Classic fleeces
There are different thicknesses to adapt to the temperature to which it will be exposed. They are very comfortable and are characterized by having a light weight and retaining heat very well, while taking up little volume. They do not limit movements and allow sports practice to be carried out correctly.
Stretch fleeces
They are characterized by the fact that they fit very tightly to the body and increase their effectiveness in preventing heat loss. Many people prefer them over traditional fleeces, as they act like a second skin, regardless of the first layer you wear.
softshell jacket
This innovative material is designed especially for practicing outdoor sports. Its fabric does not prevent air from passing through the garment, but it does allow the water vapor generated by sweat to escape. Plus, it's waterproof.
Choose second layer with filling
If you opt for a second layer with padding, it is possible to dispense with the third layer. Light jackets filled with fiber or feather are increasingly used due to the way they retain heat, and how little they weigh. Furthermore, if you have to do without them, they can be stored comfortably , since they take up very little space.
In fact, on many occasions it is done the other way around. When choosing the second layer, it is stored in the backpack and in times when more warmth is needed, it can be placed on top of everything. These jackets are an easy way to regulate body temperature during activity.
Use the garment as an outer layer
In some sports, these types of jackets are used as an outer layer. Depending on the type of material it is made of, the outer part of the jacket protects against wind and rain. Added to this is its great breathability, so sweat does not accumulate in clothing and the feeling of humidity on the body is avoided.
Second layer jackets that have padding normally use feathers or fiber, since they weigh little and take up little space. These jackets, which serve as both a second and third layer, are characterized by being more versatile , lighter and very compressible. Despite all the advantages, it should also be noted that the outer part is more prone to tears than a fleece. Depending on the activity to be carried out, it is necessary to assess whether this jacket is appropriate or it is better to follow the traditional layering system.
Choosing a second layer is very simple depending on the sport you are going to practice and the temperature to which you will be exposed. You just have to plan the route and the date well in advance to know what clothing you will need and choose the right layers.
