Clothing and Layering

Topic Lead: 2LT S. Kelland

Target Level: Basic

Objective: Identify appropriate clothing to take on an overnight tramp or outdoor activity

Need: So that you have adequate clothing when in the outdoors

Scope:

• Types of Clothing Fabrics

• Layering

• Boots

Date Updated: 07/04/20

Clothing Fabrics

1. Cotton and Denim are bad clothing choices for the outdoors, as they draw heat away from the body, which can lead to hypothermia.

2. Polypropylene is a good fabric for thermals and are relatively cheap.

3. Wool is a good natural fabric that is warm, even when wet, and relatively odourless. Merino wool is best because it is less irritable against the skin, and can be used for thermals, shirts, jerseys, socks, underwear, gloves and beanies.

4. Fleeces (made from Polyester) are a good and light way to keep you warm, even when they become wet.

5. Quick dry clothing (also made from Polyester) is breathable, lightweight and quick drying, and make for ideal shirts, shorts or long pants, although these clothes provide minimal insulation to keep you warm.

Layers of Clothing

1. Wicking Layer - Pull Moisture (e.g. sweat) away from the skin, and trap a layer of air against the skin. Clothing such as merino or polyprop thermals make for an excellent wicking layer.

2. Warming Layer - Also known as the Insulation Layer. Provides a layer of insulation in cooler weather by trapping another layer of air between the wicking layer and the warming layer. Clothing such as a warm fleece, merino jumper or a down jacket make for a good wamring layer.

3. Shell Layer - To protect you from the elements, helping to keep you warm and dry. Ideally the shell layer should be windproof and waterproof. A wet weather jacket is a necessity when in the outdoors, however generally wet weather trousers are optional.

What clothing do I take?

Check out the gear lists for an example of what clothing you should take on a day or overnight trip. Some key clothing to remember:

1. Ensure you have a good wet weather jacket (and some wet weather pants if you have them)

2. Ensure you pack a warm jersey, gloves and a beanie

3. Make sure you have good, sturdy, well fitting footwear

4. Thermals are really good to have

5. Spare socks are really good for when you have wet socks and you want to wear something dry at the end of the day. They're one of the few luxuries whilst tramping, and can do wonders for your mindset

6. Make sure you can carry it all!!