You've probably heard that layering is the secret to staying warm on the mountain. Base layer, mid layer, outer layer. The base and the outer are easy to understand. The mid layer is where people get confused.
Here's what a mid layer actually is, what it does, and how to choose the right one.
What is a mid layer?
A mid layer is the insulating layer you wear between your base layer and your outer shell. Its job is to trap your body heat and keep you warm, while still letting sweat escape so you don't get damp from the inside.
Mid layers include fleece tops, grid fleece, wool jackets, insulated hybrid jackets, and down jackets or vests. You might wear one, two, or none depending on the conditions.
How a layering system works
- Base layer: Sits against your skin and moves sweat away from it.
- Mid layer: Traps warm air to insulate you.
- Outer layer: Blocks wind, rain and snow.
Each layer does a different job. The mid layer is the one you'll add and remove the most, so it needs to be easy to take on and off and breathable enough to wear while you're working hard.
What makes a good mid layer?
Warmth
Good insulating fabrics create small air pockets that trap heat close to your body. The more air they trap, the warmer they are.
Breathability
This is just as important as warmth. A mid layer that doesn't breathe traps your sweat, and wet clothes lose heat much faster than dry ones. Look for a mid layer that lets moisture escape before it builds up.
Some wind and water resistance
Your outer layer does most of the weather protection, but a mid layer with some wind and water resistance can be worn on its own on milder days.
Freedom of movement
Your mid layer shouldn't restrict you. LÉ BENT mid layers feature our FlowState Sleeve System, which was rated by Outside Magazine for its freedom of movement.
Light and packable
You'll often be carrying your mid layer in a pack, so a good warmth-to-weight ratio matters.
Mid layer materials: fleece vs wool vs down
Fleece
Soft, breathable and quick drying. Grid fleece is a step up from plain fleece. Its channels trap warm air while letting moisture escape, which is why it's so good for active days. Our Heavyweight Grid Fleece Crew works as both a warm base layer and a light mid layer.
Wool
Wool keeps insulating when damp, regulates temperature well and resists odour, so it doesn't need washing after every wear. Our wool insulated jackets use wool insulation for warmth that keeps working in wet conditions.
Down
The warmest for its weight and very packable. The trade-off is that down loses much of its warmth when it gets wet, so it's best for cold, dry days or as an extra layer on the chairlift.
Synthetic insulation
Holds its warmth when wet and dries faster than down, but is usually bulkier for the same warmth.
Which mid layer should you choose?
- Active days, touring or you run hot: Grid fleece. It breathes best.
- All-round resort days: An insulated hybrid jacket, like the Mens or Womens Merino Alpha Active Hybrid Jacket.
- Wet, snowy conditions: Wool insulation, like the Mens Pramecou or Womens Genepi Wool Insulated Hooded Jacket.
- Cold, dry days or chairlift warmth: Down, like our Mens and Womens Down Hooded Jacket or Down Vest.
What makes LÉ BENT mid layers different?
LÉ BENT mid layers bring together our Signature Merino Blend™ of merino wool and bamboo rayon with purpose-built design details like the FlowState Sleeve System. The result is a mid layer that regulates temperature, moves with you, and works just as well in town as it does on the mountain.
Start with the right base layer too. Here's how to choose the best base layer for skiing.
Shop mens mid layers → · Shop womens mid layers →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mid layer?
A mid layer is the insulating layer worn between your base layer and outer shell. It traps body heat to keep you warm while letting sweat escape.
Do I need a mid layer for skiing?
Most of the time, yes. A mid layer gives you warmth you can add or remove as the weather and your activity level change. On warm spring days you may be fine with just a base layer and shell.
Is fleece a mid layer?
Yes. Fleece is one of the most common mid layers because it's warm, breathable and quick drying. Grid fleece is especially good for active days.
Is a down jacket a mid layer?
It can be. A light down jacket works well as a mid layer under a shell on cold, dry days, but down loses warmth when wet.
What is the difference between a base layer and a mid layer?
A base layer sits against your skin and manages moisture. A mid layer goes over the top and provides insulation.
