🏔️Why Your Winter Layers Might Actually Make You Colder

Ever layered up for a winter hike, only to end up colder than when you started?

You’re not alone.

Most hikers — even experienced ones — focus on gear: down jackets, wool socks, Gore-Tex everything. And sure, good gear matters. But one sneaky mistake undoes it all:

👉 Over-layering.

What Actually Happens:

• You start your hike a little cold, so you bundle up.

• You warm up quickly, start sweating, and trap moisture between layers.

• Your inner layers get wet.

• You stop for a break… and that wetness saps your body heat fast.

🏔️ My Wake-Up Call on the Overland Track

Last winter, I was hiking Tasmania’s Overland Track. Snow was falling, wind was sharp. The kind of day that screams bundle up or else.

So I did. Too much.

Not wanting to stop, I kept hiking… sweating buckets. By the time I reached my first real break, my base layers were soaked. And in the cold, wet = cold = miserable.

Let’s just say that break turned into a deep shiver, and I spent the rest of the day regretting one thing: not delayering earlier.

Smart Layering = Warm Hiking

Here's how to avoid that same mistake:

1. Start slightly cold
If you're cozy at the trailhead, you’re probably overdressed. Let movement warm you up.

2. Layer for airflow, not bulk

• Base: Moisture-wicking (merino wool or synthetic — never cotton!)

• Mid: Breathable insulation like fleece

• Outer: Weatherproof shell with ventilation

3. Vent early, vent often
Unzip, roll sleeves, loosen cuffs: release heat before sweat builds up.

4. Listen to your body
If you feel too warm, act fast. Sweat is hard to undo once it soaks in.

The bottom line..

Staying warm in the cold isn’t about more gear. It’s about managing your own heat and sweat like a pro.

🧠 Mantra for your next winter hike:
Be bold, start cold. Vent quickly. Sweat less.

🎥 Want the full breakdown ?

Then check out this video.

THAT’S ALL FOR THIS WEEK

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Until next week.

Stay well,

Mowser

Helping hiking enthusiasts explore the great outdoors