Ogres have layers, onions have layers and winter-running most definitely has layers. When it comes to getting dressed for a sub-zero jaunt, ensuring you’ve got an effective layering-system on can be the difference between a PB and a total meltdown. From wicking to venting to element protection, we breakdown the art behind a well-layered get-up. As it turns out, it’s not just a matter of throwing on everything you own (although some days this almost feels necessary). 

three-step system

base layer
Your base layer actually touches your skin so it is important that this layer is moisture-wicking (staying dry is key to staying warm). This layer should be a fairly simple design: buttons, zippers or elaborate necklines can make layering tricky. Look for soft, moisture-wicking, anti-stink fabrics and aim for a snug fit. Also, thumbholes are a ‘nice-to-have’ in a base because they’ll keep your sleeves down as you layer up.

we heart these base layers:
• Swiftly Techs
• Runder Under Long Sleeve
• Run: Ice Queen Long Sleeve

mid-layer
The mid-layer is on double duty. It has to keep you warm as well as continue to move moisture from the inside out. This layer needs to be engineered with insulating fabrics and venting. Look for a body-skimming fit (not too loose not too tight) and mesh panelling or zipper vents. Thumbholes and Cuffins are awesome mid-layer perks – hello built in running gloves!

we heart these mid-layers:
• What The Fluff Pullover
• Run: Toasty Tech Pullover
• Run: Pitter Patter Pullover

outer layer

This layer is all about protecting you from rain, slush and snow while still giving your body a chance to vent. The outer layer finishes the job the base layer starts by allowing moisture vapour to escape. Vents and mesh paneling are key in this layer because they let you cool down as you build up heat (you are running, after all).  Look for water- and wind-resistant fabrics, additional insulation for bitter cold climates and reflective detailing to keep you bright in low-light scenarios.

we heart these outer layers:
• Run: Bundle Up Jacket
• What The Fluff Jacket
• What the Fluff Vest

so it should work like this:

but not all climates are created equal

Coming from ‘raincouver’ we have serious sun envy – hey Florida, we’re looking at you. Here’s a look at what your layering system could look like, depending on where you live.

warm (florida)
[silverescent base layer] + [rulu mid-layer if needed]

wet and chilly (vancouver)
[silverescent base layer] + [rulu mid-layer] + [glyde outer layer]

cold (colorado)
[silverescent or rulu base layer] + [goose down or tech fleece mid-layer] + [goose down or glyde outer layer]

Whoops - looks like we just stole the "but it's too cold out" excuse from your arsenal. Now layer up and get after it.

BASE LAYERYour base layer actually touches your skin so it is important that this layer is moisture-wicking (staying dry is key to staying warm). This layer should be fairly simple in design. Buttons, zippers or elaborate neck lines can make layering tricky. Look for soft, moisture-wicking, anti-stink fabrics and aim for a snug fit.
Run: Ice Queen LS
This body-skimming base layer is made with buttery soft Rulu™ so it feels great against our skin. The inherently-wicking Rulu™ and quick-drying mesh panels work together to pull sweat away from the body. Don’t get your sleeves in a bunch - thumbholes make layering over this base no problem.

MID-LAYERThe mid-layer is on double duty. It has to work to insulate and keep you warm as well as continue to move moisture from the inside out. This layer needs to be engineered with insulating fabrics and venting so it can get the job done. Look for a body-skimming fit and mesh panelling or zipper vents.

Run: Toasty Tech Pullover
This soft and insulating mid-layer was designed with Tech Fleece and mesh panelling to support your base layer in wicking away moisture. The magnet snap helps to lock out the cold and cuffins with thumbholes keep your hands warm (think of them as built in running gloves).

OUTER LAYERThis layer is all about protecting you from rain, slush and snow while still giving your body a chance to vent. The outer layer finishes the job the base layer starts by allowing moisture vapour to escape. Look for water- and wind-resistant fabrics and ensure you have a good range of motion. Run: Hot Cheeks Skirt
We designed this outer layer so that even when it gets really cold we won’t feel the need to run in our ski pants. This 800-fill-power premium goose down skirt layers easily over run tights and helps to keep our tush toasty without weighing us down. With a 360˚ reflective details and secure zipper pockets, this little layer is a B.F.D.

Run: Turn Around Jacket
We designed this reversible winter run jacket with zipper vents so we can cool down without stripping down. The water- and wind-resistant Cire fabric, wicking Rulu™ fabric panels and 800-fill-power premium goose down combine forces to kick some serious (winter) butt. This jacket takes element protection to a whole new level.

Get winter ready - Find these layers in store and online this week!