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Layering and breathability

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Sharko
Posts: 2274 - Karma: 4,101
I have a 20/20 shell and I'm looking for a mid-layer that is going to keep me warm, but I don't want it to trap in moisture and lose the benefit of the 20k breathability. What's the best way to go? Down? Synthetic puffy? Fleece?
Feb 17 2014 2:39PM
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LC.
Posts: 5952 - Karma: 2,423
Merino sweater. Cheap no-name brand is fine as long as it's 100% merino.
Feb 17 2014 3:13PM
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aust.s
Posts: 82 - Karma: 15
Don't go down whatever you do. When down is compacted it doesnt insulate properly which will leave cold spots. Synthetic puffy, merino wool, 100% polyester tech hoodie, or fleece will all work pretty well. The merino wool will probably be the best though
Feb 17 2014 3:25PM
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Sharko
Posts: 2274 - Karma: 4,101
I've got a merino baselayer, are you saying get a heavier mid-layer of the same stuff? If so, how will the warmth compare to down or synth/prima-lift?
Feb 17 2014 3:36PM
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Huck_Norris
Posts: 11487 - Karma: 18,627
I have 3 main midlayers that I use/combine depending on how cold it is. My baselayer is pretty much always a really light wicking longsleeve and I always wear my hardshell over it all.

I always rock synthetics though, not a huge fan of down for skiing/skinning.



If it's sub zero, I rock my Norrona Lofoten Primaloft 100 as a mid

If it's teens-20 I'll use my Arc'Teryx Atom LT synthetic insulated jacket (60g)

If it's 20+ I just use my Lofoten Warm2 fleece

Anything over 30 degrees I just ski naked. It's important to use wicking and fast-drying materials whenever possible though. One layer of cotton in there and it's all fucked up. Sweat city.
Feb 17 2014 4:29PM
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DIPED_IN_SAUCE
Posts: 858 - Karma: 2,256
I do a thin merino base layer and then a really breathable fleece. If you get a textured fleece that has like little squares that's what I'm talking about. If It's under 10 degrees or really windy I'll wear a thicker fleece over that.
Feb 17 2014 4:44PM
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SKI.ING
Posts: 2695 - Karma: 2,535
I just go merino wool under my shell. Surprising how much warmth even one thin layer of that can provide. Threads for good info.
Feb 17 2014 5:44PM
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Crazy_E
Posts: 121 - Karma: 268
The North Face thermoball is a good choice.  Its incredibly light weight and small but is really warm still.  I originally picked one up to use for layering but its warm and comfy enough I end up wearing it around town as a coat.  The insulation isnt down either so it doesnt have the packing/cold pocket issues that youd get with a similar down jacket.  Other than that Id suggest something 100% merino.
Feb 17 2014 7:14PM
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