With autumn well and truly on the way, that can only mean one thing – it’s time to start the countdown to Christmas. Too soon? Maybe. But it’s certainly the countdown to colder, darker – and probably wetter – mornings and evenings. So whether it’s a long walk with the dog, riding, or daily yard work, now’s the time to start embracing the change in temperature and think about layering your clothes for the colder weather so you stay warm.
Staying warm and comfortable
Dressing for the autumn and winter can be a bit of a challenge. Luckily we have the clothes layering system, so you can make sure you wear the right layers to help you stay warm for longer when you’re out in all temperatures. There’s no great secret to layering, but the layers you’ll need will be decided by whatever activity you’re doing.
Just because it’s cold doesn’t necessarily mean you need to reach for the thickest jumper you have. Our bodies are amazing things and we can generate our own warmth – but layering can help you keep it too. Here are the three layers used in a basic layering system:
- The base layer – to help regulate your body temperature
- The mid-layer – to help trap the warmth created by your body
- The outer layer – to keep you protected from the weather
Your base layer
As the name suggests, this is the first layer, worn next to your skin, over which everything else goes. It’s used to absorb any moisture away from your body and helps to regulate your temperature and retain your warmth. While synthetic materials like polyester are best, thanks to their quick-drying qualities, a poly-cotton blend, like our own 3 Donkeys t-shirt, is a great base layer alternative.
Your mid-layer
The mid-layer covers your base layer and gives you essential insulation against the cold, as it traps and retains the warmth your body generates. A thinner mid-layer can be good for milder temperatures, but when it’s early morning cold, a heavier mid-layer works best and will help keep out any icy blasts. Again, synthetic materials are ideal, but a blended material, like our 3 Donkeys hoodies, can work just as well for low-level activity.
Your outer layer
Your outer layer protects you from wind and rain and keeps you dry. If it’s wet, it’s better to have a ‘hard’ shell – this is an outer layer which has a durable water repellent (DWR) coating which is weatherproof and water repellent. Our Dartmoor Equestrian ladies coveralls are ideal for this type of outer layer and give you the perfect all-weather protection when you’re out riding.
Your outer layer can also be another insulator, just like your mid-layer, such as a padded jacket. But in milder weather, your outer layer can be a ‘soft’ shell which is breathable but protects you from stiffer breezes and keeps you clean, just like our Classic ladies coveralls. So if the weather is cooler but dry, neither of these options necessarily need to be waterproof.
3 Donkeys layers
By understanding how each layer of clothing works on its own, as well as when worn with other layers, you’ll be able to get the layering system just right for you, so you’re wearing the right clothes for the right job. Not every situation will need all three layers so you’ll need to plan accordingly so you stay comfortable.
Our full range of 3 Donkeys coveralls and apparel should give you some great layering options for the coming months – you could even try one of our 3 Donkeys headbands – so let us know what you’ll be wearing. But if you need any more information on any items, just contact us and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
