The layered up look is not just about comfort… it’s about coordination - the individual layers working together to achieve peak performance. What you wear should ideally keep you warm when it's cold, cool you down when you're active and protect you from wind, rain or snow, whatever the weather.

Functional clothing should always work as a holistic system. Each individual layer fulfils a specific task. If a layer is missing or the wrong material is used, it cannot perform at 100%.

A cotton T-shirt, for example, doesn’t wick moisture away to the outside, it stores it instead. This makes the shirt wet, heavy, and slow to dry. Here, we’ll outline which layers and fabrics are best for outdoor activities!

The first layer, also called the base layer, sits directly next to the skin. Its task: wicking away sweat and releasing it to the outside. This minimises moisture and prevents the body from losing heat too quickly. The base layer regulates temperature, moisture and odour and ensures comfort - ideal for all kinds of physical activity.

A good example of a base layer fabric is STYLE. This four-way stretch fabric offers a uniquely comfortable wearing experience. Another plus is its ultra-breathability. Excess moisture on the body is quickly wicked away, keeping the skin dry. Super-stretchy and robust, this functional fabric is ideal for any outdoor activity.

The thermal layer or mid layer’s primary function is to insulate against the cold, and can be made up of several distinct layers. Only highly functional fabrics are used, which provide the body with sufficient warmth depending on the weather, temperature and activity. The mid layer also acts as a moisture buffer.

A good example of a mid layer fabric is PUSH.PULL. Push.Pull offers exceptional moisture management, to ensure top performance even at summer temperatures. The results: dry, fresh and comfortable. Made for performance. 

The third layer acts as a weather-repellent shield. It effectively protects against wind, rain and snow, allowing neither moisture nor cold to penetrate through to the body. Whether for everyday activities, cross-country skiing or hiking in the mountains - your choice of third layer should always reflect the environment in which you plan to wear it.

A good example of a top layer fabric is Primaloft®. This "artificial down" is a synthetic material that offers several advantages: it is ultra-lightweight, breathable, moisture-repellent and keeps you warm - exactly what a third layer should do.

Pertex® Shield is another good example - a lightweight, robust and technically advanced outer fabric that offers excellent breathability as well as waterproof and windproof properties. It’s an absolute prerequisite in the jackets and pants from Martini Sportswear.