Affordable Winter Layering

Jul 12, 2024

Affordable Winter Layering

Introduction

  • Apologies for any impression given that being outdoors requires expensive gear.
  • Previous video on winter layers totaling over $1000 ( clothes only).
  • Current goal: Assemble winter layers for under $200.

Importance of Winter Layering

  • Misconception: Not just about staying warm, but managing sweat.
  • Wetness from sweat in cold weather can make you cold.
  • Layering system: Add layers when stationary, remove layers during activity.

High vs. Low-Cost Layering

  • Expensive Option: High-tech fabrics like Gore-Tex ($200-$400) for outer shell.
  • Affordable Alternative: Rain jackets with pit zips (Marmot PreCip jacket - $90).
    • Main purpose: Keep wind and wet snow out & allow sweat to escape.
    • Comment: Even high-end Gore-Tex relies on pit zips, so pit zips are essential.

Insulating Layers

  • Keep you warm, not for high-activity.
  • Expensive Option: Outdoor Research down puffy, Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (~$300 each).
  • Affordable Alternative: Amazon Essentials puffy jacket ($35).
    • Not as warm but decent quality for price.
    • Can layer additional insulating clothing for very cold temperatures.

Mid Layers

  • Provide some insulation & need to wick moisture.
  • Ideal Material: Polyester fleece.
  • Expensive Option: Sky Goat Micro Grid fleece ($120).
  • Affordable Alternative: Amazon Essentials fleece ($15).
    • Many people already own a fleece which can save more money.

Base Layers

  • Most important layer; next to skin & manages sweat.
  • Material Avoid: Cotton (holds sweat, slow-drying).
  • Ideal Material: Polyester (cheapest, best at wicking sweat).
  • Expensive Option: Smartwool polyester-wool blend ($250/set).
  • Affordable Alternative: Full polyester base layer set ($27).

Pants

  • Produces a lot of heat during activities (snowshoeing, skiing).
  • Expensive Option: Outdoor Research soft shell pants ($150).
  • **Affordable Alternative: Regular hiking pants + waterproof Gaiter ($35).
    • Prevent snow in boots, keep pants dry.
    • Use Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish for extra waterproofing.

Final Costs & Summary

  • Affordable Full Layer System: Approx $197.30.
    • Add $21 for Nikwax DWR treatment if needed.
  • Use existing clothes to save more money.
  • Watch related video for more detailed information on winter layering.

Conclusion

  • Like, subscribe, and follow for more tips on winter layering.
  • Encouragement to use affordable options and repurpose existing clothing.