Valetmont advices to choose your mid-layer

Just as important as the first and third layers, the second layer is responsible for providing warmth and thermal insulation.

Its role is to insulate the body from the cold outside but it must also ensure excellent breathability in order to transfer moisture to the outside.

 

Valetmont experts help you choose your second layer according to your needs and desires:

 

Fleece (synthetic fibers)

In the skier's outfit, the second most common layer is fleece. It is indeed one of the most efficient fibers which owes its success to its warmth / lightness ratio, its softness and its quick drying.

Appreciated for its cozy comfort, the fleece is also very breathable and resistant, while being easy to maintain.

Fleece is made from synthetic fibers, made from polyester, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and other synthetic fibers that are sometimes recycled. It is available in different weights which allows its heat index to be varied.

The choice of weight will be made according to the practice: more than 200 g / m² for alpine skiing and less than 200 g / m² for hiking in order to control sweating during the effort.

 

Natural Fiber

Organic Down	The natural down of geese or ducks that is generally found in down jackets is very efficient in terms of insulation and compression. Down, when not treated with waterproofing, is very sensitive to wet conditions. Avoid wearing in the rain or snow without a third coat.
Merinos Wool	More expensive than synthetic fibers because of natural origin, Merino fiber is also much more efficient. This wool has the ability to temper the body: it keeps cool or keeps warm depending on the conditions and eliminates bad body odor due to the effort. Coming from a breed of sheep from New Zealand, this wool is 3 times finer than traditional wool and has the advantage of being biodegradable.

 

Size

In order to best protect yourself from the cold, take into account the following rules when choosing the size of your second layer:

• The stand-up collar and cuffs must be adjusted (sleeves or elastic) to prevent the wind from seeping inside.
• The size should be adjusted to your body type without being too small for good freedom of movement

 

Last tip to facilitate temperature regulation, choose a second layer with a Zip or a ½ Zip which can be opened if necessary and will makes it easier to put on.

 

To find out everything, you can also consult our guide to choose the right ski underwear.