How to Layer
An effective layering system is crucial when venturing on a hiking trip along the Hume and Hovell. The idea of layers is that you slip them on and off, allowing you to adapt to changes in the weather and terrain. A decent layering system that works for your personal needs can be the difference between being comfortable and something more serious like hypothermia or heat stroke.
To put it simply, your layering system should have 4 parts:
Base layer: wicks away moisture.
Active mid layer: breathable while retaining temperature.
Static mid layer: a warmer, insulating layer to trap in body heat.
Outer layer: a waterproof and windproof shell.
It goes without saying, but when it’s cold don’t forget about your head, fingers and toes by bringing a beanie or buff, a pair of gloves and obviously a pair or few of good, warm socks.
A layering system isn’t a one size fits all approach. Your layering system is personal to you and reflects how much or how little you feel the cold and the weather conditions on your trip. You might not wear all four layers at once, or even need all four layers depending on the time of year you decide to undertake the Hume and Hovell.
Cold Weather/Multi-Day Hiking Layering
Base Layer
Any good layering system starts with the really important base layer, it’s crucial for managing moisture particularly in the cooler months. It needs to be a quick-drying synthetic layer or a merino wool layer. You want something that is going to help carry moisture away from the skin, so avoid cotton as it retains moisture which will make you cold. Icebreaker’s merino base layers tick all the necessary boxes. Merino wool is temperature regulating, odour resistant, breathable and super soft against the skin.
If you are planning on walking the track during winter make sure you have a specific cold weather base layer that’s appropriate for the conditions. Some parts of the track, particularly around Tumbarumba can see snow in winter, as well as icy, frosty mornings.
When it’s cold you want your base layer to fit nice and snug (while still allowing you to move freely). This helps to trap body heat keeping you warm. In warmer weather, go for a loose-fitting base layer that allows air to circulate keeping you cool. You can read more about dressing in warmer weather further down this article.
Mid Layer
A mid layer is worn over your base layer for extra warmth. Depending on the time of year you walk the track and which sections you may need just an active mid layer or both an active and static.
An active mid layer allows moisture to continue to move away from the skin while still trapping in body heat. Choose something breathable and moisture wicking like merino or fleece, that way moisture continues to move away from your base layer and you'll stay dry as the day gets warmer. You also want to be mindful of weight as it's likely you'll pull your mid layer on and off depending on your activity. Something lightweight like Patagonia's R1 or Rab's Nexus is great as it has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, it'll pack down to fit in your pack and isn't bulky when worn under further layers. If you are doing a day walk these are also great options to have in your day pack for preparedness in case things turn sour.
Static mid layers such as a synthetic or down insulated jacket lock in warmth and are for when things are looking pretty chilly. A static mid layer worn over an active mid layer and base layer when climbing, hiking or skiing is likely to be too warm for the conditions on the Hume and Hovell. So, your static mid layer will most likely be worn when hanging around the campground at night, stopping for lunch on a cold day or even when sleeping. If you are doing a multi day trip in the middle of summer and the weather looks clear then you can omit this layer and stick with a warm base layer for sleeping, an active mid and an outer layer.
Outer Layer
An outer layer provides final protection against all weather; wind, rain and snow. Ideally, you still want some breathability so you don't overheat and sweat doesn't build up. Many outer layers feature zips in the underarms to allow air to escape without compromising staying dry, like Rab's Muztag GTX Alpine Jacket or Patagonia's Triolet (available in men's and women's).
If the weather is looking miserable a pair of waterproof pants will go a long way. Especially if you are walking one of the sections that pass through long grassland on farms. Patagonia’s Torrentshell pants (available in men's and women's) provide long-lasting waterproof protection without compromising mobility.
Layering in Warmer Weather
When going for a hike in summer or warmer months, your layering system will change. Merino wool is still a great option due to its temperature regulating properties. Merino is also odour resistant which is especially helpful on a multi-day walk as you can wear the same t-shirt for days without offending anyone. Icebreaker's Women's Cool-Lite Sphere SS Crewe and Men's Merino Tech Lite SS Crewe are great for all-day comfort when it's warm on the trails.
Cotton can also make an appearance as a single base layer on a hot day as when it’s wet it does provide an evaporative cooling effect, provided it isn't trapped under another layer. However, cotton isn’t as odour resistant as merino, and anything synthetic certainly isn’t odour resistant for days on end.
Make sure your base layer is loose fitting to allow air to circulate through. When day walking pack extra layers such as a mid and outer, unless you are absolutely certain the weather is going to stay warm and dry. Throw something simple like Patagonia's Torrentshell Jacket (available in men's and women's) in your pack, it packs down nice and small so you won’t even notice it.
Information prepared by Toms Outdoor’s in partnership with Hume & Hovell Track