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What to wear under a snow jacket to add more warmth?
What’s the best mid layer for hiking? Basically, there are two types of mid layers. The ones that are warm and cozy and feel like a jumper. They usually are made out of fleece or Merino wool. And the others that look and perform like light outdoor jackets for mild autumn or spring weather on their own.
Here is a list of some of the best mid layers for outdoors.
Table of Contents
Best Mid Layer for Hiking
Looking for the warmest mid layer?
Take a look at these fleece and marine style jackets.
Best Men’s Mid Layer for Hiking
1. Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain 2.0 Fleece Jacket (click for more details)
Ultrasoft mid layer fleece jacket for a budget friendly price.
Overall, the best mid layer for hiking, our favorite.
This classic fit fleece jacket has a full length zipper that allows you to wear it open or closed, and have a full control over the body heat. It has a collared neck that also can be worn up or down. The two side pockets have zippers. Features like elastic cuffs and adjustable drawcord at the bottom hem are great for insulation.
MATERIAL: 100% Polyester
BEST FOR: Hiking, camping, traveling
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2. Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Layer Pro Pullover (click for more details)
Quarter zip mid layer top with aesthetic design.
Made out of ultrasoft and durable fleece, this pullover is lightweight, warm and dries quickly. Athletic fit of this mid layer top makes it sit close to the body without restricting mobility. It also features a high collar for added warmth and insulation. The small flap at the top end of the zipper is also a convenient detail to have.
The ¼ zipper closure offers a quick venting option on the go.
MATERIAL: Polyester
BEST FOR: Snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, traveling
3. Helly-Hansen Men’s Hp Racing Midlayer Jacket (click for more details)
Neat looking mid layer jacket that can be worn on its own.
This marine style jacket is a bit pricier, but it also features some irreplaceable qualities like waterproof, windproof and breathable membrane. There is also insulating technology that’s been implemented. The cuffs are adjustable. And the hand pockets and collar have fleece inserts for more comfort.
Great performing jacket on its own and a great option as a hiking mid layer.
MATERIAL: 100% Polyester
BEST FOR: Trekking, fishing, sailing, racing
Best Women’s Mid Layer for Hiking
Mid layer jacket is a good idea when hiking in unpleasant weather.
It makes you feel extra comfortable and warm. Here are some of the best women’s mid layer jackets for hiking.
4. Columbia Women’s Benton Springs Fleece Jacket (click for more details)
Modern, classic-fit fleece mid layer for women.
Overall the best women’s mid layer for hiking, our favorite.
This supersoft fleece jacket has a full length zipper that makes it versatile. It has a collared neck that allows you to close it up for greater warmth or leave open for more breeze. The jacket is lightweight and designed for active wear. Both of its side pockets are secured with zippers.
There are elastic cuffs and an adjustable bottom hemline for extra warmth.
MATERIAL: 100% Polyester
BEST FOR: Hiking, camping, traveling, outdoor sports
5. Helly-Hansen Women’s Daybreaker Fleece Pullover Jacket (click for more details)
Women’s mid layer jacket with high collar and flattering fit.
The pullover has a relaxed fit – not too tight and not too bulky. The ½ zipper allows venting to prevent overheating. The polyester material is lightweight and has a soft feel. Polartec fleece is known for its hydrophobic qualities — it has great water resisting abilities. Despite the jacket being quite thin, it offers good warmth and breathes well.
Great for outdoor activities or as a mid layer for winter adventures.
MATERIAL: Polyester
BEST FOR: Trekking, skiing, exercising
6. Helly Hansen Women’s Team Crew Midlayer Jacket (click for more details)
Marine style jacket that can be worn as a mid layer.
A high-quality, durable, waterproof polyester mid layer.
A bit costly option, but it also offers outstanding performance. It’s waterproof and breathable. Both of which are great qualities to have. There are two pockets on the sides and one chest pocket, all are zippered. The hand pockets and collar have warm lining that also work as an extra layer of insulation.
The contrasting zippers give a nice touch to the overall look.
MATERIAL: 100% Polyester
BEST FOR: Fishing, hiking and everyday use
How to Find the Best Mid Layer for Hiking?
How to find the best midlayer for hiking that suits your needs?
Let’s make this super simple.
Generally speaking it’s mostly about these 4 simple things.
1. Warmth and Heat Control
A good mid layer adds warmth. True.
But a great mid layer clothing also prevents overheating.
Adjustable bottom hem and cuffs are great for controlling air flow and also for sealing in the body heat. Some of the mid layer jackets also offer partial or full length zippers that not only makes it easier to wear them, but also allow ventilation if needed. Fleece lined pockets and collar are also great for warmth and blocking the wind.
Full length zipper or partial zipper? Not all zippers are windproof therefore a shorter zipper may allow the jacket to be warmer. However, a full zipper gives more options when it comes to heat. If it gets too hot under all the layers you can leave it open.
And don’t forget about breathability!
2. Design
Functional design is a must in mid layers for hiking.
Because you don’t want your jacket only to look good, you also want it to perform good. Some jackets are more loose, some are more tight. The more room there is, the more comfortable they are for movements? Not always. There are also tight mid layers that are specially designed for active outdoor activities, and offer even greater overall comfort.
When choosing the mid layer, keep in mind that you may be wearing it on its own too. Choose a jacket that suits your style.
3. Material
Soft and cozy or durable and waterproof, what’s better?
It depends on what you are going to do. If you own a good winter hiking jacket and are looking for a warm additional layer, a fleece or Merino mid layer may be a great choice. But if you are looking for a jacket that will serve you during chilly days on its own and work as a mid layer when the outside temperature drops significantly, then a proper jacket that is waterproof and windproof will be a much better choice.
Whatever you choose, look for the material that’s breathable. Or you will sweat a lot, and it will ruin your outdoor adventures.
4. Versatility
It can be more than just a mid layer.
If the jacket looks good, you will be more happy to wear on its own on warmer days or indoors, e.g., when having a break from a winter hike. And you could also wear it for other occasions like walking a dog, when traveling or on a cold winter commute. A good looking, high quality mid layer can be an item you wear all year round.
What is your experience with winter hiking clothing? What’s the best mid layer for hiking you have tried so far?
Featured photo by PNW Production from Pexels
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