Sierra Blogging Post Archives

Today is the first day of fall and depending on where you live, you might really be starting to feel it. Autumn is a beautiful time of year - and a great time to exercise outside - but the changing weather can throw you for a loop.

The best way to dress for exercise in fall weather is to dress in layers. For cardio in chilly weather, layering is absolutely essential. Runners, hikers, walkers, and cyclists will want to wear a breathable, moisture-wicking base layer and depending on the day, either a mid layer or a mid layer and an insulating layer. If the weather calls for wind or rain, a waterproof breathable outerwear layer is also a good idea.

To help you learn to layer, we've broken down the essentials in our Layering Guide. Here's an abbreviated version:


Base Layer : The base layer is extremely important as it's the layer worn right next to skin and responsible for wicking away moisture and allowing your skin to breathe. A good base layer should fit tightly, be breathable and wicking and made of high-performance synthetic fabrics like Coolmax® or Polartec® Power Dry, silk, Capilene® or other performance fabrics.

Mid Layer: Worn over a base layer, your mid layer should be lightweight and comfortable, able to also be worn alone (like a t-shirt) and provide a mild amount of insulation. Cotton, wool and nylon make great mid layer fabrics as do moisture-wicking garments.

Insulating Layer: By creating a pocket of warm air around your body, the insulating layer keeps you warm in colder conditions. Worn over the base and mid layers, the insulating layer should be warm, comfortable, lightweight and non-bulky. Performance fleece, wool and pile make perfect insulating layers.

Outerwear/Shell Layer: The outerwear or shell layer is your final layer and your first defense against the elements. Outerwear varies in water resistance, weight and breathability so be sure you've chosen the right level for your activity and the weather. Every good shell layer should protect you from wind and weather, be somewhat breathable, and help you retain body heat while letting moisture escape.

Read the full Layering Guide for more information.