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 changes in temperature.
The importance of the second layer
The second layer is the one that will be in charge of protecting the body from the cold and maintaining the body's heat. That is why it is essential to wear it in winter for outdoor activities, especially if they last for a long time. Normally, in trekking clothing , as a second layer on top, fiber t-shirts or garments made of fleece are usually used.
This type of fabric is the most appropriate, since it weighs and takes up little space, provides warmth, dries quickly, hardly has any bulk and is breathable. In addition, it prevents the sensation 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, so it prevents cooling and maintains body temperature. It 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 made in a specific way so that they can retain body heat, while insulating from cold and water. For the part of the head, it must be taken into account that using wool hats is the best option. Although 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.
In the same way, it is also convenient to use panties to protect the 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, some specific characteristics must be taken into account. If it takes up too much volume or weighs a lot, it can limit movement and make the user uncomfortable. There are different types depending on the use that 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 they 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 ability 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 being light in weight and retaining heat very well, while occupying little volume. They do not limit movements and make it possible to practice sports correctly.
stretch fleece
They are characterized because they are very tight to the body and increase their effectiveness in the mission of preventing heat loss. Many people prefer them over traditional fleeces as they act like a second skin, regardless of the first layer you're wearing.
Softshell jacket
This new material is specially designed for outdoor sports. Its fabric does not prevent air from passing through the garment, but it does let out the water vapor generated by sweat. In addition, it is waterproof.
Choose second layer with padding
If you opt for a second layer with padding, it is possible to do without the third layer. Light jackets filled with fiber or feathers are increasingly used due to the way they retain heat, and how little they weigh. In addition, in case 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 at times when more shelter is needed, they can be placed on top of everything. These jackets are an easy way to regulate your body temperature during activity.
Wear the garment as an outer layer
In some sports this type of jacket is used as an outer layer. Depending on the type of material from which it is made, the outer part of the jacket protects against wind and rain. To this is added its great breathability, so that sweat does not accumulate in the clothes and the sensation of humidity in the body is avoided.
Second layer jackets that are filled usually use feathers or fiber, since they weigh and occupy little. These jackets that are both second and third layers are characterized by being more versatile , lighter and highly 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 whether it is better to follow the traditional layering system.
Choosing a second layer is something very simple depending on the sport that is going to be practiced and the temperature to which it is going to be exposed. You just have to plan the route and the date well in advance to know what clothes you will need and choose the right layers.
