Growing up in the South Island of New Zealand, playing on the playground at lunch time we would often have our jersey tied around our waist to allow for easy, fast play. 

Then, the bell would go and we’d head back to class and start cooling down. The jersey would go back on to avoid getting a chill, as our mums would school us to do in the cooler months.

Whether you are a child running around on the playground or an adult on their favorite walk, layering is a basic skill that can make all the difference.

We’ve all been there: Feeling too warm in what you’re wearing but, as you’ve not layered properly, taking off your outer layer would leave you feeling cold. Or, putting on layer upon layer in the colder months yet still not being able to warm yourself up.

With the information in this blog, those problems are no more!

Sensible layering - with the right mix of garments (and fabrics) means that you can effortlessly maintain optimal body temperature throughout the day no matter the season.

What’s more, you can do it almost entirely using natural fibres. To be comfortable and help the environment out at the same time?

Now you know you can layer natural fibres to layer your clothes effectively through every season, it’s probably time we teach you how, right?

In this blog we’re going to be discussing exactly why natural fibres are great to layer with, which fibres to pick and how exactly to do it.

Now that you know how great and efficient layering is, there is only one question left. How exactly do you layer?

Obviously talking about the benefits of layering is one thing. How best to do it is another.

Layering appropriately for the day ahead - taking into account work, weather and anything else you’ve got planned is the basis for keeping your body at a constant temperature. And therefore feeling comfortable throughout the day.

So, starting from the bottom and working our way up...

Socks

Our passion for foot care is well documented. The right socks are essential to keep your feet healthy. And knowing which socks to wear for the conditions is a big part of that.

If you’re based in an office all day lightweight socks are all you need - in most cases. Similarly, if the weather is mild or warm you shouldn’t need thicker socks, even if you’re planning to go for a tramp.

If you find you need thick socks to stop your feet from rubbing then chances are you need new boots/shoes.

Needless to say, if you’re out in the elements all day or it’s the height of winter then thicker socks make for toasty toes.

Underwear

There’s your basic undergarments - whatever your preference is fine with us - but then you’ve got under shirts and long johns.

On a cooler day cotton shirts or suit pants do very little to keep out the cold. Layering with a long sleeve, short sleeve or sleeveless base layer on your chest and long johns or thermal leggings for your legs can make a big difference.

Jerseys, Hoodies and Bodywarmers

Depending on the requirement and temperature variation there are various layers of differing densities that will allow you to maintain your core temperature simply by adding or removing a single layer.

With extreme temperature drops, a thicker layer or even an additional layer may be required but the important thing is that natural fibres breathe.

This means that your body will cope with the temperature variation far better. Mainly because it won’t be cooking inside your own clothes.
But whether it’s superfine merino jerseys or dual layer possum lined hoodies there will be something to suit your needs.

Travellers layers

This crew have cottoned onto having lightweight luggage by using layers, one of the best garments that can be casual or dressed up is a black long sleeved merino top or polo. It can be worn on its own with jeans or pop on an open shirt or jacket over the top.

The wicking of the fibre will allow minimal washing and maintained fresh feel and odour.

Health and Safety layers.

Not only does layering have its personal benefits, you can see it being used in a professional capacity for health and safety, too.

In NZ and other countries high level motorsport now demands certified flame resistant base layers, drivers now get used to tip to toe (balaclava, long sleeved top, long johns, socks merino as compulsory (wool doesn't burn... Here's a blog of ours all about that!).

Electrical companies now demand certified underwear, socks & beanies that have no nylon sewing or thread to prevent melting and fires. 100% merino fibre does the job perfectly.

Beanie style Hats.

A huge amount of the body’s heat escapes out of the top of the head (and the mouth depending on who you are). So a merino wool beanies - especially for the more follically challenged men - is a highly effective way of keeping the warmth in. Or, for added warmth and comfort, a possum lined MKM Balaclava.

So, now that you know why layering is important, why natural fibres are great to layer with and exactly how to do it. The only thing left is to put it into practice in your day to day life.

Pair that with some knowledge around regulating your body temperature and you’ll never find yourself battling with the weather again.

If you’re in warmer climates, with this great blog here by Michigan State University. Or, if you are in colder climates, Heathline has provided you with all of the information you need, here.

To view our entire range of natural fibre clothing click here or if you have specific requirements or a trip planned and you’re not sure what layers would be, get in touch today and we’ll be happy to help.