How many layers you need in winter cold

Short answer: Three layers cover a Nordic winter: a thin layer against the skin, an insulating layer and a windproof outer layer.

What each layer does

The innermost layer moves moisture away from the skin. The middle one traps air and insulates. The outer one stops wind and rain. Remove one of the three and a function is missing, however thick the others are.

The innermost layer

It should sit close and be thin. Bamboo viscose absorbs the moisture and passes it to the layer outside. If the innermost layer is thick, you end up warm and damp rather than dry. See bamboo undershirts for men.

The middle layer

This is where the warmth comes from. A sweatshirt, a fleece or a wool jumper traps air. See sweat clothing and bamboo hoodies for men.

Frequently asked questions

Are four layers better than three

Rarely. A fourth layer squeezes the air out of the others and therefore insulates less.

Can two thin layers replace one thick one

Yes, two thin layers often insulate better than one thick, because there is air in between.

Does the innermost layer have to be wool

Not necessarily. Bamboo viscose moves moisture well and does not prickle.