The main source of warmth in the layering system, a good mid layer traps heat and helps to collect the moisture dispersed by your baselayer and push it further away from the skin. As well as providing you with insulation, a mid-layer adds versatility to your outfit as it can be easily removed or added to your layering system as your body temperature and the conditions change throughout the day. There are multiple types of midlayer available that all have their own advantages depending on the temperatures and intensity of your activity.

MIDLAYER

1. SYNTHETIC

Lightweight and highly breathable, fleece is the traditional midlayer of choice for snowsports enthusiasts. Less expensive than other options, it dries quickly, is highly packable and naturally repels water, enabling it to provide insulation and warmth even when it's wet.

Key characteristics: Highly breathable, quick drying, packable.

2. MERINO WOOL

Lightweight and super warm, a merino wool midlayer is ideal for use throughout the ski season as it is able to adapt to your body temperature and the weather conditions efficiently to keep you warm when it's chilly but keep you cool during intense periods of activity. Merino breathes to prevent overheating, is sustainably made and is anti-bacterial which reduces the need for washing as it naturally wicks away odours.

Key characteristics: Warm, anti-bacterial, sustainable.

3. DOWN INSULATION

A down jacket is an incredibly comfortable insulation layer that can be used for more than just your ski holiday. They offer a fantastic warmth to weight ratio, providing you with plenty of premium insulation without the bulk of other options. They are highly packable and can be compressed down to a small size, taking up little space in your bag when not in use. Ideal for use in colder conditions.

Key characteristics: Super warm, lightweight, packable.

4. SYNTHETIC INSULATION

Synthetic jackets use man-made polyester padding to provide warmth by trapping air much like a down jacket. Able to keep you warm even when they're wet, synthetic jackets are a great choice for high intensity skiing in the extreme cold, or for use at the end of the season when temperatures rise. A versatile and lightweight option, they can be packed down almost as small as a down jacket. Ideal for use in colder conditions.

Key characteristics: Warm, moisture-resistant, lightweight.

5. SOFT SHELL

Halfway between a fleece and a hard shell jacket, a softshell stretches and moves with you and can be used as a primary or additional midlayer on colder days. Water and wind resistant it provides protection from the elements while still maintaining a good level of breathability and moisture management. Super durable, it is more hard-wearing than fleece or merino, making it a versatile and long lasting option for regular skiing.

Key characteristics: Weather resistant, stretch, highly breathable.