Keeping Warm in Winter: What Layers Should You Be Using?
Keeping warm in winter isn’t always easy. There are the freezing winds and pouring rain -and did we mention the snow?
Keeping warm in winter isn’t always easy. There are the freezing winds and pouring rain -and did we mention the snow? This tricky season only gets more confusing when you walk into work and are hit with the hot blast of the aircon and find yourself sweating in what you thought was going to be a sensible outfit for the day. And then, of course, you instantly freeze up again when you leave for the day.
The never-ending battle between hot and cold is exhausting! However, layering effectively is one of the best tactics you can use to keep you warm during winter – regardless of whether you’re out in the cold or in an overheated office.
Here are our top tips when it comes to layering effectively:
The layering basics
Whether it’s for personal use or you’re a manager looking to instate a uniform policy, finding the right outerwear can often be a challenge. There are so many different types of layers and layering options that it’s easy to get confused.
Don’t stress - it’s time for layering 101, so we thought we’d start with the basics of what the base, mid and outer layers are and how you can use these.
Base layer
Let’s start at the bottom. As its name suggests, the base layer is the first layer of your outfit. Also known as the underwear layer, its role is to move (or ‘wick’) moisture away from your skin. Even in winter, sweating in cold conditions can result in you becoming extremely cold when you slow down or stop for a break which can lead to hypothermia in severe instances. This moisture wicking base layer can help keep your skin dry and, as a result, keep you warm. Try to avoid cotton materials as a base layer, as it soaks up moisture rather than ‘wicking’ it. Instead, look for options like polyester, nylon, merino wool or silk.
Mid layer
The role of the middle layer is to trap your body heat. As a standard rule, the thicker this layer is, the warmer it’ll be. Before choosing this layer, look into how quickly it dries and how breathable the material is. Polyester fleece is a great middle-layer fabric because it stays warm even when it’s damp and dries quickly. One consideration for polyester fleece (or polar fleece) is that it is quite breathable, meaning cold wind can come through if it’s not blocked by your outer layer.
Outer layer
Lastly is your outer layer (or shell layer). This is there to provide protection from the elements. Your outer layer should be chosen with the weather conditions in mind. Softshell jackets are a great option if you’re battling chilly winds, as they are wind-tight without adding much bulk. When the weather is wet or snowing, you’ll need something that’s completely waterproof – not just water resistant. Although outerwear can be expensive, the more you pay, the drier you will tend to stay (and the longer the garment will last).
Now that we’ve covered how to layer, it’s time to go into more detail on what to layer.
Jackets
Jackets are a staple layering piece in any winter workwear wardrobe. They are practical and comfortable and often serve many functions. Jackets come in many different shapes and sizes. From a heavy-duty, fleece-lined jacket down to a windbreaker, jackets are a great way to add an extra layer over company tees, polos and fleeces and are perfect for branding.
Jackets we recommend include:
- Vortex jacket
- Alpine puffer jacket
- Eclipse jacket
- Patrol jacket
- Razor insulated jacket
- Apex lightweight softshell jacket
- Geneva jacket
Vests
Wearing a vest is a great way to warm your body if you’re looking for an extra bit of warmth or another layer without the bulk of a jacket. Wearing a vest instead of a jacket provides warmth to the body without losing the ventilation from the arms. This keeps the blood pumping around the body without causing the wearer to overheat when undertaking physical activity. Because of these, vests are ideal for those working in cold conditions but are active and spend the majority of their time moving around (e.g. site managers and surveyors).
If you’re looking for the right vest for you, here are some of our favourites:
Fleeces and knits
Fleeces and knits are solid choices for mid-layers. They are light, comfortable and insulating, meaning your employees stay warm in cooler temperatures. Fleece and knitwear are extremely versatile, making them the perfect option for almost every profession. While they make for great layering pieces, they’re also a handy thing to have in the warmer months when the air conditioning is a little too chilly.
As essential garments to most industries, here are what fleeces and knits we recommend:
Sweatshirts
If your workplace isn’t quite casual enough to wear branded hoodies, a branded sweatshirt is a great alternative. While they’re comfortable and warm, they’re also more professional than a hoodie.
If you’re looking for a company sweatshirt, try out our Hype sweatshirt.
Hoodies
Lastly, hoodies are a fantastic way to keep you warm and can be thrown over most outfits. There are plenty of different types of hoodies, including those with contrasting hoods, two-tone side panels and more understated looks with practical features. They are easy to brand with your business logo, and the pockets make for useful storage solutions.
If you’re looking for a hoodie for your industry, here are our top picks:
Keeping warm in winter can sometimes be a challenge. You might be too hot or too cold, but sometimes finding a balance that’s just right can be tricky. If you’re looking for the perfect layering options – whether it’s for work or leisure – head into your closest Fashion Biz Canada distributor today or check out our range.