10 Best Mid Layer Clothing for Cold-Weather Hiking

Mid Layer for Hikers

When it comes to putting together an outfit for an outdoor adventure, the most important thing to remember is to have suitable dressings for hiking and that cannot be complete without the right mid-layer.

Now, mid-layers are not just for luxury or fashion, they have insulating duties assigned to the conventional middle layer of a three-layer garment system.

As a consequence of this, it is the single item of clothing that you are most likely to change based on the conditions of the weather. Everyone is aware of how important it is to dress in layers when hiking on days that are cooler.

10 Best Mid-Layer Clothing for Cold-Weather Hiking

Mid-layer clothing serves as the unsung hero of your wardrobe, bridging the gap between your moisture-wicking base layer and your weather-resistant outer shell.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a winter sports enthusiast, or simply someone looking to upgrade their everyday wardrobe, the right mid-layer can make all the difference in your comfort and performance.

1. Coalatree Baseline Midlayer

Coalatree Baseline Midlayer

Coalatree Baseline Midlayer

Anti-microbial qualities keep you fresher longer during ski touring, hiking, or climbing.

The Coalatree Baseline Midlayer is created for active people who need good moisture-wicking, want their skin to breathe, and want to reduce their environmental imprint. This eco-friendly clothing is produced from used coffee grounds, I know you are surprised right? Well, you should also know that it doesn’t shed microplastics when washed, keeping your water system clean.  The Coalatree Baseline is well-made and durable.

This mid-layer’s moisture-wicking and breathability make it ideal for high-intensity activities. Anti-microbial qualities keep you fresher longer during ski touring, hiking, or climbing.

Basically, Coalatree Baseline’s fabric keeps your mid-layer supple for years. The temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, and breathable DWR-coating creates a high-performance, eco-friendly mid-layer. One of the best for eco-adventurers.

What I Like:

  • Great deal for the price
  • Good insulation layer for colder days
  • Looks great
  • Well-designed and well-made
  • Practical
  • Warm without bulk
  • Slimming look with black side panels
  • Stylish, comfortable, and functional
  • Good mid layer
  • Lightweight fleece lining
  • Flattering fit
  • Keeps warm in low temperatures
  • Good quality
  • Perfect fit

What I Don’t Like:

  • Fabric snags easily
  • Velcro causes problems
  • Sleeves are too long
  • Fits a bit small
  • Not very warm for extreme cold
  • The colour is different from the description
  • The sleeves and length are a bit long

2. Patagonia R2 Fleece Jacket

Patagonia R2 Fleece Jacket

Patagonia R2 Fleece Jacket

The R2 fleece is more pricey than other things on our list, but it’s still a good value considering its quality and breathability.

Outdoor lovers will definitely love Patagonia, and for good reason. Their R-series jackets (R1, R2, and R3) are high-quality, sturdy clothing made by adventurers for adventurers, I judge it as the warmest midlayer here.

The R2 Fleece lacks a hood, thus anyone seeking a hoodless intermediate layer should explore this, it mixes Patagonia’s warmest fleece on the chest/core and a lighter design under the arms and around the sides. This creates a well-balanced warmth while reducing overheating during cardio-intensive activity. The R2 fleece is more pricey than other things on our list, but it’s still a good value considering its quality and breathability.

Due to its simple design, warmth, and breathability, I choose to call it the ideal athletic mid-layer. Patagonia’s R2 Fleece jacket is a good option for individuals who think fleece is the ideal middle layer and don’t need a hood.

What I Like:

  • The jacket is warm and breathable enough for hiking in Michigan winters.
  • The jacket has excellent breathability and stretch panels for comfort and heat dumping.
  • The DWR treatment is effective in keeping water on the outside of the jacket.

What I Don’t Like:

  • The collar is a little looser than preferred, allowing cold wind down to the neck.

3. Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Hooded Jacket

Cotopaxi Teca Calido Hooded Jacket

Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Hooded Jacket

Its inside zipped chest pouch hides items while skiing. Zippered hand pockets provide extra warmth.

Cotopaxi’s Teca Cálido Hooded Jacket is my top pick for the finest skiing mid-layer because it was built with movement in mind and the elastic hood, hem, and cuffs keep heat in no matter how active you are. So light, it fits in its own chest pocket. You barely notice it! It’s reversible and easy to use as temperatures drop. This jacket includes a hood and a high collar that protects your neck while fitting under a ski-shell.

Interestingly, with its DWR treatment, it resists mild rain. It can’t withstand much moisture and needs a weatherproof shell if it rains but then it is airy and comfortable to sweat in. Its inside zipped chest pouch hides items while skiing. Zippered hand pockets provide extra warmth. This jacket is defined as an “all-around fantastic adventure jacket” by Cotopaxi.

What I Like:

  • Great jacket
  • Thin but very warm
  • Reversible with an orange coat on the inside

What I Don’t Like:

  • Hood is really big
  • Hood comes down over the face if not wearing a hat
  • Sizing is not accurate
  • Doesn’t close properly
  • Loose sleeves and body

4. Patagonia R1 Full-Zip Fleece Jacket

Patagonia R1 Full Zip Fleece Jacket

Patagonia R1 Full-Zip Fleece Jacket

Its smell controller substance makes it ideal for high-intensity adventures.

The R1 and R2 Fleece Jackets from Patagonia may seem similar, but they are very different because the R1 employs a lighter version of Patagonia’s warmest fleece, making it more of a midlayer than a jacket. Lighter and slimmer than the R2, the R1 is a layer you’d wear all day without taking off because its recycled polyester makes it wicking and toasty. This makes it a versatile lightweight insulator or thermal base layer.

More so, its fit has no extra bulk and hugs your body when you’re still and stretches when you’re active for ski touring, climbing, hiking, and more; hence, Patagonia R1 is great for cardio-intensive sports that require warmth and breathability.

Finally, its smell controller substance makes it ideal for high-intensity adventures.

What I Like:

  • The fabric is soft and warm
  • Can be used as a sweater, jacket, or mid-layer
  • Lightweight and takes up little space
  • Perfect fit and collar
  • Can be worn directly on the skin
  • Good as a second layer
  • Can be worn in both urban and mountain settings

What I Don’t Like:

  • The cut is relatively wide, especially in the sleeves
  • The material may not be very durable
  • Not suitable to wear in windy conditions
  • Consider ordering a size smaller

5. Mammut Runbold Midlayer Hoody

Mammut Runbold Midlayer Hoody

Mammut Runbold Midlayer Hoody

The waffle hoody keeps you toasty when needed and cool when not and since it is lightweight designed and has quick-drying characteristics, it is sure to keep you dry.

If you constantly have a hoodie in your layering system, the Runbold is for you because Mammut makes durable, high-quality products, and this one is no exception. The waffle hoody keeps you toasty when needed and cool when not and since it is lightweight designed and has quick-drying characteristics, it is sure to keep you dry.

As a matter of fact, this will keep you warm in the cold by wicking sweat and moisture away from your body, and its light construction won’t fry you on warm days. This is why it is a flexible hoodie you can wear anywhere. I like the front pouch’s secret pocket. It’s excellent for storing valuables or anything you don’t want to lose while you’re out. The hoodie offers UPF 50+ sun protection.

Please note that this hoodie’s athletic shape makes it a snugger fit than you may be used to. If you’re unsure about sizing, go up one. In all, Mammut Runbold is the best hoodie, sizing aside. Light, athletic, and ideal for layering!

What I Like:

  • Thin design

What I Don’t Like:

  • N/a

6. Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip Fleece

Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip Fleece

Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip Fleece

The Steens Mountain Full Zip is a low-cost layer without many added features.

Columbia’s Steens Mountain Full Zip Fleece is a cheap, classic-looking fleece that offers decent weather protection. It is the cheapest mid-layer on our list, but it still packs a punch, making it the finest budget option, as it is comfy and ideal for skiing, hiking, snowboarding, or any other cold outdoor activity.

With this, you are sure to get what you pay for as it applies to technicalities and extra features. The Steens Mountain Full Zip is a low-cost layer without many added features. It’s a good “no-frills” layer for the price and will surely keep you warm.

This layer is suitable as an indoor sweater, not for outside use. Hence those searching for something more technical/guaranteed to keep them warm on a cold day outdoors should consider checking on one of the additional layers available on this list.

What I Like:

  • Comfortable fit
  • Soft and cosy
  • Stylish design
  • Good warmth
  • Practical zippered pockets
  • Quality construction
  • Variety of colour options
  • Easy to care for

What I Don’t Like:

  • Thin material used for pockets

7. North Face Ventrix Hoodie

North Face Ventrix Hoodie

North Face Ventrix Hoodie

If you want a packable midlayer, choose down over synthetic like the Ventrix Hoodie.

I dare to believe that the North Face Ventrix Hoodie was created with climbers in mind. This hoodie has a DWR-coated outer layer that can endure light wear together with more material suited in climbing-weary areas like the forearms; its high-tech perforations in crucial regions expand/release heat when you move and contract/retain heat when motionless. This piece’s breathability/warmth mix is impressive trust me.

The Ventrix Hoodie isn’t just the greatest hiking midlayer because of these features, but it over time became the favourite for many mountain bikers, skiers, cold-weather hikers, and climbers as they would rather wear it to others.

Interestingly, The Ventrix Hoodie is like a down jacket and its synthetic insulation performs better in the rain, making it boast its packability above synthetic jackets. If you want a packable midlayer, choose down over synthetic like the Ventrix Hoodie.

What I Like:

  • The material used in the Ventrix
  • Thicker fabric on elbows and lower arm area
  • Good sleeve length
  • Nicely sized handwarmer pockets
  • Big outer chest pocket
  • Smooth and operable zippers
  • Designed for optimal breathability during outdoor activities
  • Styling and fit
  • Lightweight and soft fabric
  • Can be worn with casual and sporty outfits
  • Good for active winter activities
  • Keeps warm without making it too hot
  • True fit
  • Very comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Provides warmth

What I Don’t Like:

  • Not the best choice for stationary use in colder conditions
  • No hood adjustment
  • Open areas around the face where air can seep in
  • Not waterproof or windproof

8. The North Face Women’s Respirator ¾ Zip Midlayer

The North Face Womens Respirator ¾ Zip Midlayer

The North Face Women’s Respirator ¾ Zip Midlayer

A two-thirds-length zipper is unique in mid-layers but works well on this tight-fitting item to improve breathability.

This slim-fit mid-layer from The North Face is ultra-breathable and light. Its unique design makes it eye-catching, stylish, and technically suitable for backcountry hiking. A two-thirds-length zipper is unique in mid-layers but works well on this tight-fitting item to improve breathability.

The Respirator sports a hood that is thin enough to go under a ski helmet, with thumbholes, and a front pocket that can contain the complete jacket. We like the diagonal lines and two-thirds zip on the front, however, others may find it odd.

Depending on body type, this cut may be boxy. As mid-range mid-layers go, this is the greatest option for women I have seen. In fact, it’s a great pick for any lady who wants a layer built for females.

What I Like:

  • Very comfy and warm. Fits very well.

What I Don’t Like:

  • I wish the logo north face was in white on the back

9. Kari Traa Rothe Mid-Layer Fleece Jacket

Kari Traa Rothe Mid Layer Fleece Jacket

Kari Traa Rothe Mid-Layer Fleece Jacket

It works nicely with a shell fits well with its cool sleeve cuffs, and comes in numerous colours.

This is a great layering garment to wear under a ski jacket on a cold day. It can also turn heads when you’re drinking after skiing. It lacks a hood because it was designed to be worn with a hooded ski jacket, but it has some handy characteristics.

This fleece includes a high collar and chin protector, with two hands and one chest zip-pocket making it good for those with this quality of taste. It’s not a good rain or wind jacket, but it works nicely with a shell fits well with its cool sleeve cuffs, and comes in numerous colours.

I should state here that the Kari Traa, created by the same-named Norwegian champion freestyle skier, is Europe’s fastest-growing sports brand. Her Rothe Midlayer Fleece Jacket shows her adorable, creative style and her team’s ability to mix function and fashion.

What I Like:

  • Great quality
  • Fits better than North Face jackets and shirts
  • Soft material
  • Perfect mid-weight layer
  • Cozy for fall weather
  • High quality
  • Plenty of pockets
  • Unique design

What I Don’t Like:

  • Not suitable for tall individuals
  • No hanger inside the collar
  • Sleeves are too long

10. Odlo Half-Zip Orsino Top

Odlo Half Zip Orsino Top

Odlo Half-Zip Orsino Top

The lightweight fleece is flexible enough to keep you moving but dense enough to keep you warm.

The Odlo’s Orsino half-zip is a Light, comfortable fleece with great wicking capabilities and construction made to produce this perfect active mid-layer. The lightweight fleece is flexible enough to keep you moving but dense enough to keep you warm. I love this piece because if you’re working so hard that you overheat, you can use the half-zip to vent.

Although I wish it had a hood for cooler weather, all the same, it is lighter than other items on our list, and I recommend it as a three-season active alternative. They’re made for layering, like any mid-layer.

Well, this can also be your new go-to mid-layer if you’re usually adventuring or exercising. The Orsino is stretchy, and elegant for active use.

What I Like:

  • Well-made insulated top
  • Solid layering top
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Good for cool summer mornings
  • Flexible

What I Don’t Like:

  • Very snug
  • Form-fitting
  • Not great for wearing without an additional layer
  • Size may run small
  • Low collar stand

How Do I Choose a Midlayer?

Whether you’re planning a winter trek through snow-covered landscapes, embarking on a brisk autumn hike, or simply bracing against the chill of a cool evening stroll, your mid-layer plays a crucial role in keeping you warm, comfortable, and ready for anything.

1. Material Matters

Midlayers come in various materials, each offering different benefits. The most common materials used for midlayers include:

  • Fleece: Fleece midlayers are known for their excellent insulation properties. They are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, making them a popular choice for hikers. Look for options with different weights (e.g., lightweight, midweight, heavyweight) to suit the season and weather conditions of your hikes.
  • Synthetic Insulation: Synthetic insulators like PrimaLoft and Thinsulate offer warmth even when wet, which can be crucial in damp or rainy conditions. They are lightweight and compressible, making them easy to pack.
  • Down: Down midlayers provide exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio but are less effective when wet. However, hydrophobic down treatments have improved their moisture resistance. Down is an excellent choice for cold and dry conditions.
  • Hybrid Options: Some midlayers combine different materials to optimize performance. For example, a hybrid midlayer might feature fleece in the areas that need breathability and synthetic insulation in the core for added warmth.

Choose a material that suits the expected weather conditions and the level of physical activity you’ll be engaging in during your hikes.

2. Fit and Layering

The fit of your midlayer is critical for effective layering. It should be snug enough to trap warm air but not so tight that it restricts movement or compresses your base layer. Look for midlayers with a design that allows for ease of movement, especially in the arms and shoulders.

Consider the layering system as a whole. If you plan to wear multiple layers under your midlayer, make sure it has enough room to accommodate them without feeling overly bulky.

3. Weight and Thickness

Midlayers come in different weights and thicknesses. Consider the temperature and weather conditions you’ll encounter on your hikes.

Lighter midlayers are suitable for cool, mild weather or as part of a layering system for colder conditions. Heavier midlayers provide more warmth and are ideal for cold and frigid environments.

4. Ventilation and Breathability

While insulation is essential, you don’t want to overheat during strenuous hikes. Look for midlayers with ventilation options like zippered pit vents or mesh-lined pockets. These features allow you to release excess heat and moisture, keeping you comfortable.

5. Durability and Packability

Your midlayer should be durable enough to withstand the rigors of hiking, including abrasion from backpack straps and contact with rough surfaces. Additionally, consider how easy it is to pack your midlayer when not in use.

Many midlayers are designed to compress into their own pockets or stuff sacks, saving valuable backpack space.

6. Hooded or Non-Hooded

Some midlayers come with hoods, which can provide extra warmth and protection in windy or chilly conditions. Consider whether a hooded midlayer aligns with your hiking needs and preferences.

7. Brand and Price

While brand reputation can be a helpful indicator of quality, it’s essential to balance your budget with your hiking requirements.

You can find excellent midlayers at various price points, so explore different brands and models to find the best value for your needs.

Should Mid-Layers Be Tight or Loose?

Mid-layers should strike a balance between being snug and allowing some freedom of movement. Ideally, they should fit comfortably without feeling overly tight or restrictive. A mid-layer’s primary function is to trap warm air close to your body while efficiently wicking moisture away from your skin.

If a mid-layer is too tight, it can compress the insulating pockets of air in the fabric, reducing its ability to keep you warm. It may also restrict movement, making it less practical for active pursuits like hiking or skiing. On the other hand, a loose mid-layer can allow too much airflow, decreasing its insulating effectiveness.

The ideal fit for a mid-layer allows for a thin base layer underneath and provides enough space for air to circulate while still maintaining a snug feel. This fit facilitates proper moisture management and temperature regulation during various activities and weather conditions. Ultimately, the choice between tight and loose depends on your personal comfort preferences and the specific outdoor activity you’re undertaking.


Conclusion

In the end, it is because I know that the finest mid-layer for hiking is the one that, when worn between your base layer and your outer layer, will make you feel more comfortable and will keep you warm while you are engaging in your favourite outdoor activity.

Having said that, I also know that there is such a wide variety of choices available, each of which varies in terms of price, breathability, warmth, and material, that it may be rather difficult to determine which one to purchase.

To help you save both time and effort, I have made this list available. I hope you make a very fine purchase.

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Written by Jane Miller

I'm Nomadic Jane, a digital nomad and travel blogger. Since 2009, I've been traveling the world and exploring cultures through my travel blog.