Love this video. This is so important and most people don't know how to make a good layering system. My personal favorite, and this is something I developed from 8 years working at a skiing mountain as a lift attendant, so I had to be outside in all weather all temperatures. All silk shirt base layer, silk sock liners, silk leggings, silk long sleeve shirt. Yes, expensive but it's your base layer so it lasts. Then, thermal; "ski socks", long johns, and waffle shirt, preferably dry wick everything, and preferably thumby shirt. For the feet/legs, decent boots, and ski pants. Top of the body, I still put on 1 more layer of t-shirt, again preferably a performance material, but at this point, cotton is "ok" because it's so far away from your skin. Lastly for the top laters, a GOOD hoodie, something winter weight, and a soft shell. Over that. That's it! I mean gloves obviously, but yeah that was my system. If it really got too hot I would take off the t-shirt, or REALLY hot I would take off the thermal, but this is an EXCELLENT "inexpensive" cold weather system.
Hi Luke, this is a great show and tell, but I'm not sure this is optimal? Once you are below freezing (0C 32F) snow just sits or more likely brushes straight off, it's not wet so you don't need a waterproof jacket - instead use of a wind 'shirt' comes into it's own - not waterproof but windproof and very breathable - the secret to being and keeping warm - breathable layers - exactly to wick moisture away and keep you dry. Waterproof jackets - even expensive Gortex just don't breathe that well. Try a Windshirt as a shell layer below freezing and I think you'll be suprised, use a wind shirt above freezing in non wet conditions also works well and as it is so lightweight for me it's an EDC. Mine's a quirky UK brand - Buffalo Wind Shirt - classic Pertex and works a treat. So when do you need a waterproof rain jacket? Above freezing when precipitation falls as rain and below about 18C (65F) in warmer temperatures switch over to a Poncho to increase air flow - again keep you dry inside your waterproof cover. Apologies if this goes against the grain - we have all been brainwashed into thinking waterproof jackets are the way to go - but they really have limitations - experiment with different, especially below freezing and there's a good bet you won't look back! Keep up the good work!
Wool, fleece and Gore-Tex for me. And always try to avoid sweating - it's better to be a *little* cold when moving. Ventilate the outer layer or take off the fleece if needed. It works for me in the Norwegian alps.
Great video. When we would crosss country ski in the military we would have nothing on but our overwrites. When we stopped for a quick break we would throw on a coat and change socks. Finish the break, put away the coat and back to going up and down the hills in the deep snow. If you didn't layer you got soaked and became a casualty. In the Norwegian Winter Warfare School they covered many areas the US doesn't have the ability to do. Like a small cooler like box that has a small charcoal heater in it to keep medicines from freezing. They had done studies on everything you could dream of in the cold. When temps hit -40 (just happens -40 is the same C and F) both sides take more casualties from the cold as from combat. They had systems built around the cold. Every soldier carried a shelter half. They were are designed with a system of buttons that provide a 7 man shelter when buttoned together. Each 7 man team would ski with a pulk (sled) which contained their stove and fuel. Great system. They knew how to stay alive in the bitter cold, and it relied on layering, proper equipment and training. The knew a lot about fighting in the cold, but this isn't the place for that. The key is don't sweat on your insulation. Military doesn't use down anything. However the do use caribou hides for sleeping mats. So light weight isn't a big factor. Frostbite is serious business.
I prefer full length zippers on all my layered clothes so much easier to regulate the heat. You get too hot unzip them all down and back up when cold. Keeps you from taking layers completely off and then back on in most cases. Ron
@@iReturnV1deotapes People probably differ alot, as for me, loosing heat is no problem. If there are no strong winds and around -5°C I sometimes just hike in my base layer to keep myself cool. (As soon as I stop, I put insulation back on of cause)
Lived my entire life in a Caribbean Island and Florida. Taking a trip to Colorado this February and had no Idea what to wear. You just made my life so much easier 👍 Very helpful Video
A couple years ago I got a Mountain Hardwear thin quilted hooded jacket the thing is amazing. I live in Summit Colorado and last winter it was an every day wear, whatever was underneath was fine for all day even for long periods out fly fishing on the Blue River.
This is such an important topic for cold weather adventures. Thank you for such a clear and concise explanation, and for reinforcing that it will be different for everyone. I love your channel, keep up the good work!
Hello Luke, I just came across this video from 2016. It is loaded with vital information for surviving in the outdoors. Be safe out there and always have fun. 🤗
I only use down in my big expedition parka that goes over everything. Only wear it on the summet or in camp. There i don’t sweat, don’t come in contact with snow and rain so it stays dry. Great vid will help a lot of people 👌
As a base layer I always wear merino wool t shirts in winter and summer. They don't stink and dry quickly. They are cheap in Decathlon stores (20 euros)
Hey Luke, great video man! Usually these types of videos only cover one part, I really like that you came around clothing / equipment for the whole body and even touched on some of the FAQ's like down vs synthetic, best and most informal layering video I have seen on youtube, keep it up! Many greetings from Denmark ;)
My problem is I can (and have) sweat buckets while hiking even in 9degree temps while wearing just a shirt (up top). Controlling my moisture is nearly impossible. I typically just wear it wet 'til I get to the top, where I dry off and replace shirt, hat, gloves. I sweat even on the descent, but at least it's less so, and I know I have warm dry clothes in the car (or even yet another dry shirt in my pack). Today, at the top, with the weather a balmy 25 degrees, my chest was purple with cold as I changed my sodden shirt, but I'd been warm the entire way up. Bottom line: I hear you about staying dry, but sometimes it's just not possible.
I like the keene dry. I just bought another Tahegee mid boot. I also have solomon trail runners. I completely agree with keeping the sweat low. Unfortunately it is easier said than done. You are so cold that you aren't aware that you are sweating. I've been in 65 degree that turned to 24 degree after the sun went down and the down jacket was not effective anymore. Burton ski gloves are great in the snow but take some time to soften up to be useful, you can put your hand right in the snow and not feel the cold and won't get wet inside. I agree with the comment of full zipper, it gives you more flexibility.
The black one is the Minus 33 Kobuk Expedition and the brown fleece is the arc'teryx convert. He also has a review on the I/O Merino Altitude base layer like the Minus 33. NOTE: the Convert is no longer a mid-weight fleece, but light weight. A "Hi-Pile" from LL Bean or some where similar would be a good source for a mid-weight, top layer fleece.
Loved the red Hilleberg tent, Nallo 2GT or Nammatj, that was pitched in heavy snow? New Arc'teryx pack is a beauty to. Hunters have used this type of layering for many years. Hunters hike long distances to their stand in fairly light clothing then layer up for all day sits in their hide/stand. Liked the video as you have hit another home run.
Hey Luke, Just came across your channel. I really like the content and the way you convey information. I'm randomly going through your videos based on what TH-cam is feeding me and came across this one. Good stuff but I do have some input. I spend a lot of time in the cold in the mountains out west. A typical day is cold in the morning (20's-30's), but usually sunny 30's during the day, then gets cold, possibly windy, and less sun later in the afternoon. For me layering is a must. I snowshoe most of the day, starting pretty early. Moisture management is always foremost in my mind throughout the day. Here's my setup: Lightweight Polertec Powerdry long-sleeve base layer top. If it's really cold (20's), I'll add a short-sleeve Powerdry or some other performance poly T-shirt. Next is a an older Polartec micro-fleece lined Windstopper jacket (vintage Arc'Teryx Gamma AR) with pit zips. The pit zips are a must. My storm shell is in a side pocket on my pack. A heavy one (Mountain Hardware Guide Jacket) if it's going to be a cold day, a light one (Arc'Teryx or Marmot Paclite) if it's not going to be too cold. Both have pit zips. As I heat up on the climb, temp's rising, and sun coming out I'll first open the pit zips, then shed the short-sleeve T at the first break. Most of the day I'll have on only the long-sleeve top base layer and the windstopper jacket. I'll be opening and closing the pit zips as the sun comes and goes. For pants I really like a full zip, internal gaiter pant. Mine are old Mountain Hardware Guide pants. I zip and unzip them throughout the day to manage heat. Because I have the internal gaiters my pants pretty much seal out the cold so I never wear long johns. I have a set of really warm bicycle leg warmers in my pack in case of emergencies. I can put those on without too much trouble if I have to (only once so far). For footwear, it's Columbia Bugaboot for me. I do tend to get hot feet but I definitely don't want wet feet, which for sure my hiking boots would be after a day in the snow. I take two pair of socks. If it's on the warmer side I'll go with Coolmax socks. If it's cold then Smartwool. The other pair of socks serve as my backups. That's all I have to add. Thanks!
Happy New Year Luke, Let me first tell you how much I really love your videos. The way you talk to us as viewers makes us feel "not so stupid", if you know what I mean. Second, I'm a bigger guy in the process of shedding some pounds, and the way I've been doing that is by trail-walking in my local canyon at 5am. What many people don't understand, is that even though San Diego, CA does get hot during the daytime, it gets pretty cold at night. Long story short, your layering system (without the outer jacket & shell) really works a whole lot better than my old system. You know the system; just put on as many cotton shirt layers, a pair of cotton sweatpants to get warm... AND a Carhartt vest on top, then go walk until you're soaked in sweat??!! Anyway, I know better now. Finally, keep making these awesome videos, and thanks for your time, efforts, and patience... Happy hiking Luke... PEACE Respectfully, George McCormick
There is a very simple answer to winter clothing. It is called Lamilite and is made exclusively by Wiggys Outdoors in Grand Junction Colorado. First of all get rid of the wicking material next to your skin. In extreme cold it will freeze you. And get rid of the goretex and the other materials with the myth of breathable and waterproof. First layer should be string underwear or fishnet underwear. It was used by fishermen and sailors for a long time. It creates warm pockets of air. Wear a very loose fitting second layer. Tight fitting materials just make you cold. With lamilite insulated clothing all of your body moisture will travel completely outside of and through the clothing. You will have frost on the outside of your clothes but radiant heat will be kept in by the lamilite. Lamilte also retains its loftiness even if vacuum packed under 20 tons of pressure. Wiggys makes extreme cold gear for militaries around the world as well as the Coast Guard. I have been researching cold gear for a little while now based upon me freezing myself out with typical reccomendations. I'm not a paid by them just ran across them and after seeing all these layering videos and having to monitor and remove clothing and add clothing and the hassle. The most important aspect of all is getting the moisture away from you and out of your clothing and sleeping bags also. His sleeping bags will go down all the way to -80F. How many companies can make that claim?
Getting rid of Gore-Tex is a bad idea. It is wind- and waterproof, will create a big pocket of warm air inside, and yes, it will also breathe. The Scandinavian armies will now use inner layers of wool and (1500 Euros) Gore-Tex shell winter uniforms. They are not clueless clowns, and yes, it *does* sound like you are being paid.
I hike the mountains here in socal which can reach up to altitudes of 11,500 feet. And at that height ive experienced temps in the mid 20’s. All i use is a thermal fleece compression, then a polartec fleece and a down jacket and that seems to work. Really want to get a shell though.
Gaiters are good for any kind of hiking, because they can prevent pebbles, sand, twigs getting in the top of your boot and protect against nettles/thorns. Also when its raining water can run up the back of your heel and get absorbed into your socks giving you wet feet....gaiters fix that.
Good info but a Toboggan is a long flat bottomed sled often made of wood curved up and backward at the front. it’s not a stocking cap worn on the head to keep you warm.
Oh my goodness gracious! Thank you for using the word “tobaggan”! I have called this the ski cap a toboggan all my life and I get a lot of flack for it. Here I am in my 50s and I’ve never heard anybody else call it that except for you!
Boots should be roomy enough to allow a cushion of air around your foot, or more to say your socks do not get pressed almost at all, it's tough to find but boots that can stay put on your feet and give you support and stability, AND not have to be tied tight to do it, they will be the warmest. I like a lightweight thinsulate insulated, 600 and less, airforce fly ready Belleville, they are Gore-Tex, which I would like to find an upgrade soon, before next winter, but if you are not in purely blizzard, constant snow trudge, mixed conditions or only a few inches, military intended boots of 100$ or more are always the most comfortable and durable boots you can find. For full time, heavy snow I often wear snowboarding boots that are extra flexible, some are steel stiff, but the traction and ankle support I have found to be better then most other snow boots. Great video!
on the gloves i use 2 pair of glove liners then if really cold i have some water proof/ wind proof gloves over them. and for the feet i use sock liners under my wool socks. its like your tops i like to layer my socks and pants. i have long underwear then sweat pants then cargo pants.
what they taught us in AF survival school....loose and layered. When I went through it in the Cascades in Washington, it was the coldest winter they'd had in 30 years. Was outside for 3 days, only had on Tee, skivvies, thermal underwear, flight suit, and field jacket with liner. mittens with liners and winter socks inside flight boots. Was never really cold except at night outside the sleeping bag and not near the fire. Good info you're giving out. For obvious reasons you didn't need to mention that the US military has the ECWCS, but if you look at the whole system, it's 7 layers. EDIT:L I've also found that mittens work better to keep my fingers warm than something like ski gloves. I also use glove liners in the place of other types of basic layer gloves. And finally for sleeping, I highly recommend Icelandic wool socks. Put on a pair of sock liners and shove your feet down inside those IW socks and you're feet are toasty all night.
I find that any thing more than two layers on my arms is too much so I like to use a sleeveless 2nd layer, or 3rd layer if wearing an outer rain jacket. My arms never get as cold as my body.
Wax the cotton outer layer for light moisture. It will dry around a camp fire. I like poly cotton outer layer for activity. I do bring fleece and gore Tex for high humidity. I run wool base.
‘Be Bold,Start Cold’. You will soon warm up,as you hike. You don’t want to start with loads of layers on,as you will only have to stop and take it all off. Regards.
Great video Luke, and that's from someone who grew up in New England and Northern New York State. Layering is the most important concept that no one seems to think about. The only disagreement I have is with the insulated Boots but as you said that's a personal choice. Just came back from an overnight camp trip testing out a Pack Saw. It worked well but I need to test it some more. (Give me an excuse to do some more camping.) Ed
For me, a cold coat has to have a hood and cover my butt. It should also be waterproof, but most are not-- no matter what the price. As my dad used to say, "You are only as warm as your coldest part."
can you PLEASE drop the brand and name for that brown jacket? I love making a gear review channel and a video on cold-weather layers and not listing or naming half of the things covered in the video. also, love that there are at least 5 videos with the jacket and it isn't described once.
Luke, great video, I see in the comments, there are many people asking for the names of the clothes you showed, could you provide that for us please?, Thanks! I didn't see it, but I may have overlooked it somewhere
You will let us know when merino possum base layers hit the market right? Maybe a short review. Just trying out the gloves and socks gives me a good idea I definitely want this piece of gear close to my body.
if you are really into this there is a ultra thin shear base layer made of silk or nylon that is the first layer that is great for wicking moisture off of your body.. then you have your basic long john wool base layer. this is when you will be sweating from skiing or snowboarding etc.. not really needed for a basic hike or walking..
you need to buy a high quality 650 to 800 fill down or synthetic to wear instead of the 2 insulating layers, I have a Rab Nebula hoodie and its very warm and water resistant. If I put on my Patagonia thermal weight baselayer, Smartwool 250 1/4 zip and the Nebula, I'm good down to 30 degrees. If its colder I have a Eddie Bauer Mountain Ops jacket I can put over the Nebula and I should be good down to 10 degrees.
VIP Vapor transmission layer Insulating layer Protective layer V and P are 1 layer a piece the I is as many as you need to be warm. Yes dont sweat but dont get cold either. Wool is #1 best thing
Thank you for the good info. I'm starting to get into the military gen 3 ecwcs. Any thoughts on system. Have u reviewed it before and if not could you ??
Mitten brand / Model ? Plz .. I have a Nike Combat Pro (84% Polyester / 16% Spandex) long-sleeve shirt .... i would wear this a FIRST layer for winter hiking .... good choice ?
Cotton is no good as an inner layer (will offer next to no insulation) when wet, and will generally just cool you down. Wool will feel warm even when wet. As an outer layer, a proper Gore-Tex shell is unbeatable. It will breathe, while at the same time keep you dry and keep the wind out. Cotton will not be wind- or waterproof as an outer layer, or of waxed, not breathing.
Im wondering is the base layer good ob its own that wicked moisture away fron the body like is it the same thing happens while putting on another insulating layer and shell layer?
For me the best combination is a icebreaker merino anatomy shirt as baselayer. Then an Fjällräven merino longsleve (bergtagen = best midlayer ever). Than a patagonia nano puff (synthetic insulated puffer.) over that my Arc’teryx beta ar gore-tex shell. And if its really getting super cold i add my patagonia fitz roy down jacket. That combi will go to -30/40 Celsius noproblem. With that combi you will never get cold
It’s been close to five years since this came out. And, I just watched this and it’s still on point. Great advice Luke.
Just curious, does clothing technology really change that much in 5 years?
@@Migger_29 To my experience yes. But the basics remain the same
the principles are the same since thousands of years, probably
Love this video. This is so important and most people don't know how to make a good layering system.
My personal favorite, and this is something I developed from 8 years working at a skiing mountain as a lift attendant, so I had to be outside in all weather all temperatures.
All silk shirt base layer, silk sock liners, silk leggings, silk long sleeve shirt. Yes, expensive but it's your base layer so it lasts.
Then, thermal; "ski socks", long johns, and waffle shirt, preferably dry wick everything, and preferably thumby shirt.
For the feet/legs, decent boots, and ski pants.
Top of the body, I still put on 1 more layer of t-shirt, again preferably a performance material, but at this point, cotton is "ok" because it's so far away from your skin.
Lastly for the top laters, a GOOD hoodie, something winter weight, and a soft shell. Over that.
That's it! I mean gloves obviously, but yeah that was my system. If it really got too hot I would take off the t-shirt, or REALLY hot I would take off the thermal, but this is an EXCELLENT "inexpensive" cold weather system.
Always smart, always relevant, always useful life-saving tips. Thx!
Probably one of the best explanations of layering I have ever heard. Great job.
yea except for naming the clothing would have been GREAT.....
Hi Luke, this is a great show and tell, but I'm not sure this is optimal? Once you are below freezing (0C 32F) snow just sits or more likely brushes straight off, it's not wet so you don't need a waterproof jacket - instead use of a wind 'shirt' comes into it's own - not waterproof but windproof and very breathable - the secret to being and keeping warm - breathable layers - exactly to wick moisture away and keep you dry. Waterproof jackets - even expensive Gortex just don't breathe that well. Try a Windshirt as a shell layer below freezing and I think you'll be suprised, use a wind shirt above freezing in non wet conditions also works well and as it is so lightweight for me it's an EDC. Mine's a quirky UK brand - Buffalo Wind Shirt - classic Pertex and works a treat. So when do you need a waterproof rain jacket? Above freezing when precipitation falls as rain and below about 18C (65F) in warmer temperatures switch over to a Poncho to increase air flow - again keep you dry inside your waterproof cover. Apologies if this goes against the grain - we have all been brainwashed into thinking waterproof jackets are the way to go - but they really have limitations - experiment with different, especially below freezing and there's a good bet you won't look back! Keep up the good work!
Excellent point. Waterproof jacket should be used only during rain . A softshell or wind jacket is much breathable
Wool, fleece and Gore-Tex for me. And always try to avoid sweating - it's better to be a *little* cold when moving. Ventilate the outer layer or take off the fleece if needed. It works for me in the Norwegian alps.
Great video. When we would crosss country ski in the military we would have nothing on but our overwrites. When we stopped for a quick break we would throw on a coat and change socks. Finish the break, put away the coat and back to going up and down the hills in the deep snow. If you didn't layer you got soaked and became a casualty. In the Norwegian Winter Warfare School they covered many areas the US doesn't have the ability to do. Like a small cooler like box that has a small charcoal heater in it to keep medicines from freezing. They had done studies on everything you could dream of in the cold. When temps hit -40 (just happens -40 is the same C and F) both sides take more casualties from the cold as from combat. They had systems built around the cold. Every soldier carried a shelter half. They were are designed with a system of buttons that provide a 7 man shelter when buttoned together. Each 7 man team would ski with a pulk (sled) which contained their stove and fuel. Great system. They knew how to stay alive in the bitter cold, and it relied on layering, proper equipment and training. The knew a lot about fighting in the cold, but this isn't the place for that. The key is don't sweat on your insulation. Military doesn't use down anything. However the do use caribou hides for sleeping mats. So light weight isn't a big factor. Frostbite is serious business.
I have been following you for years and this video is a DREAM. Thank you !
May be the best layering system video I've seen. Thank you!
I prefer full length zippers on all my layered clothes so much easier to regulate the heat. You get too hot unzip them all down and back up when cold. Keeps you from taking layers completely off and then back on in most cases.
Ron
+Ron Weiss. Just what I was thinking.
+Ron Weiss Ido that too but most of the time i still have to take my jacket off.
Apparently its easy to convert a pull over to a full zip...anyway I totally agree.
Wouldn't that also risk losing heat through the zipper seams?
@@iReturnV1deotapes People probably differ alot, as for me, loosing heat is no problem. If there are no strong winds and around -5°C I sometimes just hike in my base layer to keep myself cool. (As soon as I stop, I put insulation back on of cause)
Lived my entire life in a Caribbean Island and Florida. Taking a trip to Colorado this February and had no Idea what to wear. You just made my life so much easier 👍
Very helpful Video
I'll keep you warm
Very good advice @7:00. It happened to me and i learned. Synthetic when hiking, down when around cold town or around the campground not active.
A couple years ago I got a Mountain Hardwear thin quilted hooded jacket the thing is amazing. I live in Summit Colorado and last winter it was an every day wear, whatever was underneath was fine for all day even for long periods out fly fishing on the Blue River.
This is such an important topic for cold weather adventures. Thank you for such a clear and concise explanation, and for reinforcing that it will be different for everyone. I love your channel, keep up the good work!
I never thought of myself as being OCD but I kept wanting to reach through the computer screen and fix Luke's insulating layer collar.
Hello Luke, I just came across this video from 2016. It is loaded with vital information for surviving in the outdoors. Be safe out there and always have fun. 🤗
Glad to find your channel Luke keep up the great work!
Thank u so much for sharing. This is very helpful for our first trip to Yosemite in winter
Luke, would you have a list of the clothing you showed?
I only use down in my big expedition parka that goes over everything. Only wear it on the summet or in camp. There i don’t sweat, don’t come in contact with snow and rain so it stays dry. Great vid will help a lot of people 👌
Good to see some new Backpacking Basics videos!
As a base layer I always wear merino wool t shirts in winter and summer. They don't stink and dry quickly. They are cheap in Decathlon stores (20 euros)
Yep, worlds better than plastic polyester against your skin.
@@edwardo737 nothing feels better than natural materials on your skin indeed !
Hey Luke, great video man! Usually these types of videos only cover one part, I really like that you came around clothing / equipment for the whole body and even touched on some of the FAQ's like down vs synthetic, best and most informal layering video I have seen on youtube, keep it up!
Many greetings from Denmark ;)
My problem is I can (and have) sweat buckets while hiking even in 9degree temps while wearing just a shirt (up top). Controlling my moisture is nearly impossible. I typically just wear it wet 'til I get to the top, where I dry off and replace shirt, hat, gloves. I sweat even on the descent, but at least it's less so, and I know I have warm dry clothes in the car (or even yet another dry shirt in my pack). Today, at the top, with the weather a balmy 25 degrees, my chest was purple with cold as I changed my sodden shirt, but I'd been warm the entire way up. Bottom line: I hear you about staying dry, but sometimes it's just not possible.
Very good video! Thank you, Luke!
I like the keene dry. I just bought another Tahegee mid boot. I also have solomon trail runners. I completely agree with keeping the sweat low. Unfortunately it is easier said than done. You are so cold that you aren't aware that you are sweating. I've been in 65 degree that turned to 24 degree after the sun went down and the down jacket was not effective anymore. Burton ski gloves are great in the snow but take some time to soften up to be useful, you can put your hand right in the snow and not feel the cold and won't get wet inside. I agree with the comment of full zipper, it gives you more flexibility.
Like that you used a Fjallraven jacket first in your video...Makes my Swedish heart warm ...Keep up your good work
Hello Luke! As always. You are awesome. Thank you for your knowledge and suggestions.
Great review/tips for winter backpacking. Thanks, Luke!
Can you als make a list of what you're wearing? I'm interested to know more about your fleece sweater and the brown jacket.
i know he tells us but dosn't say what he is wearing....i like the jacket and have no idea what jacket it is...
fleece is Arc'teryx (I own it as well, is why recognised it).
The logo on the chest looks like it says arc'teryx but it doesn't match anything they currently carry. Maybe an old model?
The black one is the Minus 33 Kobuk Expedition and the brown fleece is the arc'teryx convert.
He also has a review on the I/O Merino Altitude base layer like the Minus 33. NOTE: the Convert is no longer a mid-weight fleece, but light weight. A "Hi-Pile" from LL Bean or some where similar would be a good source for a mid-weight, top layer fleece.
Love the brown jacket 😍
Loved the red Hilleberg tent, Nallo 2GT or Nammatj, that was pitched in heavy snow? New Arc'teryx pack is a beauty to. Hunters have used this type of layering for many years. Hunters hike long distances to their stand in fairly light clothing then layer up for all day sits in their hide/stand. Liked the video as you have hit another home run.
I'm just glad you called your "beanie" a toboggan. I grew up in Arkansas calling them that, moved to Colorado and everyone calls a sled a "toboggan."
Well in PA a toboggan is a sled with medal rails, we call those beanies tosselcap
tuque
@@XJonAye in Jersey we call it a skully
Awesome video. Interesting comments about synthetic fill instead of down. My jacket has synthetic fill.
Not quite as warm...but it is far more versatile
Hey Luke, Just came across your channel. I really like the content and the way you convey information. I'm randomly going through your videos based on what TH-cam is feeding me and came across this one. Good stuff but I do have some input. I spend a lot of time in the cold in the mountains out west. A typical day is cold in the morning (20's-30's), but usually sunny 30's during the day, then gets cold, possibly windy, and less sun later in the afternoon. For me layering is a must. I snowshoe most of the day, starting pretty early. Moisture management is always foremost in my mind throughout the day. Here's my setup: Lightweight Polertec Powerdry long-sleeve base layer top. If it's really cold (20's), I'll add a short-sleeve Powerdry or some other performance poly T-shirt. Next is a an older Polartec micro-fleece lined Windstopper jacket (vintage Arc'Teryx Gamma AR) with pit zips. The pit zips are a must. My storm shell is in a side pocket on my pack. A heavy one (Mountain Hardware Guide Jacket) if it's going to be a cold day, a light one (Arc'Teryx or Marmot Paclite) if it's not going to be too cold. Both have pit zips. As I heat up on the climb, temp's rising, and sun coming out I'll first open the pit zips, then shed the short-sleeve T at the first break. Most of the day I'll have on only the long-sleeve top base layer and the windstopper jacket. I'll be opening and closing the pit zips as the sun comes and goes. For pants I really like a full zip, internal gaiter pant. Mine are old Mountain Hardware Guide pants. I zip and unzip them throughout the day to manage heat. Because I have the internal gaiters my pants pretty much seal out the cold so I never wear long johns. I have a set of really warm bicycle leg warmers in my pack in case of emergencies. I can put those on without too much trouble if I have to (only once so far). For footwear, it's Columbia Bugaboot for me. I do tend to get hot feet but I definitely don't want wet feet, which for sure my hiking boots would be after a day in the snow. I take two pair of socks. If it's on the warmer side I'll go with Coolmax socks. If it's cold then Smartwool. The other pair of socks serve as my backups. That's all I have to add. Thanks!
Happy New Year Luke,
Let me first tell you how much I really love your videos. The way you talk to us as viewers makes us feel "not so stupid", if you know what I mean. Second, I'm a bigger guy in the process of shedding some pounds, and the way I've been doing that is by trail-walking in my local canyon at 5am. What many people don't understand, is that even though San Diego, CA does get hot during the daytime, it gets pretty cold at night. Long story short, your layering system (without the outer jacket & shell) really works a whole lot better than my old system. You know the system; just put on as many cotton shirt layers, a pair of cotton sweatpants to get warm... AND a Carhartt vest on top, then go walk until you're soaked in sweat??!!
Anyway, I know better now. Finally, keep making these awesome videos, and thanks for your time, efforts, and patience... Happy hiking Luke... PEACE
Respectfully,
George McCormick
Thanks for the great information
Hello Luke, thank you for sharing this informative video. I really appreciate it. Take care out there and have fun. 🤗
Great video. Thank you for the information!!
Great video. Details were on point. Thank you for your help.
You make the best outdoor videos!!Love it
There is a very simple answer to winter clothing. It is called Lamilite and is made exclusively by Wiggys Outdoors in Grand Junction Colorado. First of all get rid of the wicking material next to your skin. In extreme cold it will freeze you. And get rid of the goretex and the other materials with the myth of breathable and waterproof. First layer should be string underwear or fishnet underwear. It was used by fishermen and sailors for a long time. It creates warm pockets of air. Wear a very loose fitting second layer. Tight fitting materials just make you cold. With lamilite insulated clothing all of your body moisture will travel completely outside of and through the clothing. You will have frost on the outside of your clothes but radiant heat will be kept in by the lamilite. Lamilte also retains its loftiness even if vacuum packed under 20 tons of pressure. Wiggys makes extreme cold gear for militaries around the world as well as the Coast Guard. I have been researching cold gear for a little while now based upon me freezing myself out with typical reccomendations. I'm not a paid by them just ran across them and after seeing all these layering videos and having to monitor and remove clothing and add clothing and the hassle. The most important aspect of all is getting the moisture away from you and out of your clothing and sleeping bags also. His sleeping bags will go down all the way to -80F. How many companies can make that claim?
I winter camp, and love my Wiggy bags, and lamilite socks!
Getting rid of Gore-Tex is a bad idea. It is wind- and waterproof, will create a big pocket of warm air inside, and yes, it will also breathe. The Scandinavian armies will now use inner layers of wool and (1500 Euros) Gore-Tex shell winter uniforms. They are not clueless clowns, and yes, it *does* sound like you are being paid.
I hike the mountains here in socal which can reach up to altitudes of 11,500 feet. And at that height ive experienced temps in the mid 20’s. All i use is a thermal fleece compression, then a polartec fleece and a down jacket and that seems to work. Really want to get a shell though.
I've been testing out laying systems and looking for the right see up ,I'm a big sweater and it not easy .good vid 👍
Gaiters are good for any kind of hiking, because they can prevent pebbles, sand, twigs getting in the top of your boot and protect against nettles/thorns. Also when its raining water can run up the back of your heel and get absorbed into your socks giving you wet feet....gaiters fix that.
Good info but a Toboggan is a long flat bottomed sled often made of wood curved up and backward at the front. it’s not a stocking cap worn on the head to keep you warm.
Your tips are correct :) These are very similar to my daily routine haha, especially like the the layers
Great thing you said a lot of times YOU NEED TO TAKE OF LAYERS. Because people see thous videos about layers put them on and hike all train in them.
This is what I've been trying to teach my Scouts!
What was the sweater you mentioned? The one you would make a review on :O
Oh my goodness gracious! Thank you for using the word “tobaggan”! I have called this the ski cap a toboggan all my life and I get a lot of flack for it. Here I am in my 50s and I’ve never heard anybody else call it that except for you!
In 🇨🇦 we call them a toque 😋 never heard the word toboggan for a hat till today lol toboggan is a sled here
Thank you. Very good tips. Love it.
Pleasant and knowledgeable presentation. Subscribed!
Boots should be roomy enough to allow a cushion of air around your foot, or more to say your socks do not get pressed almost at all, it's tough to find but boots that can stay put on your feet and give you support and stability, AND not have to be tied tight to do it, they will be the warmest. I like a lightweight thinsulate insulated, 600 and less, airforce fly ready Belleville, they are Gore-Tex, which I would like to find an upgrade soon, before next winter, but if you are not in purely blizzard, constant snow trudge, mixed conditions or only a few inches, military intended boots of 100$ or more are always the most comfortable and durable boots you can find. For full time, heavy snow I often wear snowboarding boots that are extra flexible, some are steel stiff, but the traction and ankle support I have found to be better then most other snow boots. Great video!
on the gloves i use 2 pair of glove liners then if really cold i have some water proof/ wind proof gloves over them. and for the feet i use sock liners under my wool socks. its like your tops i like to layer my socks and pants. i have long underwear then sweat pants then cargo pants.
What jacket is that, Luke?
Fjallraven Greenland jacket
what they taught us in AF survival school....loose and layered. When I went through it in the Cascades in Washington, it was the coldest winter they'd had in 30 years. Was outside for 3 days, only had on Tee, skivvies, thermal underwear, flight suit, and field jacket with liner. mittens with liners and winter socks inside flight boots. Was never really cold except at night outside the sleeping bag and not near the fire. Good info you're giving out. For obvious reasons you didn't need to mention that the US military has the ECWCS, but if you look at the whole system, it's 7 layers. EDIT:L I've also found that mittens work better to keep my fingers warm than something like ski gloves. I also use glove liners in the place of other types of basic layer gloves. And finally for sleeping, I highly recommend Icelandic wool socks. Put on a pair of sock liners and shove your feet down inside those IW socks and you're feet are toasty all night.
I find that any thing more than two layers on my arms is too much so I like to use a sleeveless 2nd layer, or 3rd layer if wearing an outer rain jacket. My arms never get as cold as my body.
If you want to try military surplus mittens, go with the german military ones... very warm during -30°C temp
Great review my friend. Thank you for sharing. Be safe out there. 🤗
great video! very on point in my opinion.
Wax the cotton outer layer for light moisture. It will dry around a camp fire. I like poly cotton outer layer for activity. I do bring fleece and gore Tex for high humidity. I run wool base.
‘Be Bold,Start Cold’.
You will soon warm up,as you hike.
You don’t want to start with loads of layers on,as you will only have to stop and take it all off.
Regards.
Enjoying the videos. Super informative. Subscribed.
Great video Luke, and that's from someone who grew up in New England and Northern New York State. Layering is the most important concept that no one seems to think about.
The only disagreement I have is with the insulated Boots but as you said that's a personal choice.
Just came back from an overnight camp trip testing out a Pack Saw. It worked well but I need to test it some more. (Give me an excuse to do some more camping.)
Ed
For me, a cold coat has to have a hood and cover my butt. It should also be waterproof, but most are not-- no matter what the price. As my dad used to say, "You are only as warm as your coldest part."
thats a good saying. At work the other day my upper body was warm but my legs were cold, you stay focused on those cold legs.
Hello Larry, your Dad was a wise man. My Dad used to say the same thing. Take care and be safe. 🤗
could you put some links to the different layers?
Hi, thanks for the info. What's the brand of the brown jacket you're wearing? Thanks in advance.
can you PLEASE drop the brand and name for that brown jacket? I love making a gear review channel and a video on cold-weather layers and not listing or naming half of the things covered in the video. also, love that there are at least 5 videos with the jacket and it isn't described once.
BTW, I love your channel... just saying!
Great information to the point
Than you. Very good tips. live it.
Thanks Luke! How did I miss this video???
You are the best! :D
great info. thanks
I love you videos, I could watch you for hours.... keep the videos coming..... you rock.....
Great presentation.
Luke, great video, I see in the comments, there are many people asking for the names of the clothes you showed, could you provide that for us please?, Thanks! I didn't see it, but I may have overlooked it somewhere
You will let us know when merino possum base layers hit the market right? Maybe a short review. Just trying out the gloves and socks gives me a good idea I definitely want this piece of gear close to my body.
do you wear rain pant on top of the softshell pants??
if you are really into this there is a ultra thin shear base layer made of silk or nylon that is the first layer that is great for wicking moisture off of your body.. then you have your basic long john wool base layer. this is when you will be sweating from skiing or snowboarding etc.. not really needed for a basic hike or walking..
Your wool mid layer sweater! Where did you get it?
excellent information, great vid.
Excellent video. Thanks for all the tips. 🙂
you need to buy a high quality 650 to 800 fill down or synthetic to wear instead of the 2 insulating layers, I have a Rab Nebula hoodie and its very warm and water resistant. If I put on my Patagonia thermal weight baselayer, Smartwool 250 1/4 zip and the Nebula, I'm good down to 30 degrees. If its colder I have a Eddie Bauer Mountain Ops jacket I can put over the Nebula and I should be good down to 10 degrees.
VIP
Vapor transmission layer
Insulating layer
Protective layer
V and P are 1 layer a piece the I is as many as you need to be warm.
Yes dont sweat but dont get cold either.
Wool is #1 best thing
Thank you for the good info. I'm starting to get into the military gen 3 ecwcs. Any thoughts on system. Have u reviewed it before and if not could you ??
Hey could you maybe tell me what kind of arc'teryx jacket you're wearing in the video (the brown one) :)
Would you want to wear a synthetic shirt as a baselayer underneath a long john top or in that case would the long john top become the base?
Could you write the brand names of the clothing you use? Thanks
Mitten brand / Model ? Plz ..
I have a Nike Combat Pro (84% Polyester / 16% Spandex) long-sleeve shirt .... i would wear this a FIRST layer for winter hiking .... good choice ?
I guess one would size up on jacket & outter shell?
Very Informative
Thank for the advice!
Question: why no cotton?
Cotton is no good as an inner layer (will offer next to no insulation) when wet, and will generally just cool you down. Wool will feel warm even when wet. As an outer layer, a proper Gore-Tex shell is unbeatable. It will breathe, while at the same time keep you dry and keep the wind out. Cotton will not be wind- or waterproof as an outer layer, or of waxed, not breathing.
In that outro scene you looked like a freaking robot from the future... Very nice!
What is the brand of the fleece sweater?
Excellent tips...
Where would you fit in a vest when it's not too cold out?
Damn makes me want to get my Hilleburg out this weekend.
Im wondering is the base layer good ob its own that wicked moisture away fron the body like is it the same thing happens while putting on another insulating layer and shell layer?
Great explanation
For me the best combination is a icebreaker merino anatomy shirt as baselayer. Then an Fjällräven merino longsleve (bergtagen = best midlayer ever). Than a patagonia nano puff (synthetic insulated puffer.) over that my Arc’teryx beta ar gore-tex shell. And if its really getting super cold i add my patagonia fitz roy down jacket. That combi will go to -30/40 Celsius noproblem. With that combi you will never get cold