Spandex or Marshmallow Man? A Layering Guide for the Backcountry
There are a million ways to dress for the backcountry.
Some folks channel Lycra superhero, others go full Stay Puft. No judgment. But here’s the system that’s kept me moving, safe, and mostly sweat-free through deep winter days and crusty spring tours.
Let’s start with the base:
Underwear:
Yes, we’re going there. Rule #1: no cotton. None. Never. Cotton traps moisture, chills your body, and feels like sandpaper after a few miles. Go with synthetic or wool. I like Uniqlo poly or the usual suspects from Patagucci. If you’ve got a thing for Scandinavian military-issue layers, live your truth. Just make sure it dries fast and feels good against your skin.
Socks:
The most divisive gear decision you’ll make. Personally? I keep ’em thin. Here’s why:
- My boots fit like a dream, and don’t need bulky insulation.
- Thin socks leave space for toe warmers—essential on frosty Teton mornings.
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Lighter = better. I’m a gram weenie and proud of it.
Upper layers:
- Base:Super thin synthetic tee.
- Mid-layer: Windproof hoodie with snack and skin pockets. A hero piece. Blocks wind, dumps heat, and lets me keep moving without constant layering/unlayering chaos.
- Shell: A lightweight shell (<350g) lives in my pack unless it’s nuking. It’s there for wind and storm protection.
Puffy Jacket #1
My "oh-sh*t" layer. Always packed, rarely worn. 850-fill down, belay-style, as light as I can find. It’s for emergencies—yours or your partner’s.
Puffy Jacket 2:
If it’s bitter cold, I’ll wear a thin synthetic layer for the climb. It’ll get sweaty, but that’s the point. Keeps me warm on the skintrack and still insulates when wet. It stays home unless it’s proper winter.
Legs:
I run hot. Like, weirdly hot. So unless it’s deep freeze season, it’s just my shell pants—lightweight, high-waisted, loaded with pockets. Keeps snow out, holds snacks in.
Gloves:
Dexterity > warmth. I use thin gloves 90% of the time. Mittens are for emergencies (or the 1800s). I carry a beefy backup pair, but they rarely see daylight.
Make sure to check out our safety-first backcountry ski packs here.
