Unstable weather is the toughest test for any layering system: sudden showers, shifting winds and calms, exposed ridge crossings followed by forested shelter, and temperatures fluctuating unpredictably. To perform in these conditions, gear must allow you to open, close, ventilate, and insulate quickly without trapping moisture or causing overheating. This is the core of AYAQ’s wardrobe: a coherent system designed to adapt all day long amid uncertainty.
1. Technical principles for unstable weather
The challenge comes from three factors:
- Thermal variability: +10 °C on climbs, -10 °C on windy ridges.
- Unpredictable precipitation: short showers, persistent drizzle, mountain storms.
- Effort fluctuations: active ascents, cold descents, unexpected breaks.
The system must continuously adjust: breathe on climbs, block wind on ridges, insulate during stops, stay waterproof in showers.
2. Base layer: thermal stability amid fluctuations
RWS merino wool is the most reliable material for unstable weather: warm even when damp, breathable, thermoregulating, and odor-resistant.
- BIAFO: 100% lightweight merino, ideal for long, steady efforts.
- MEFONNA: 100% versatile merino, perfect for more varied effort levels.
- SHIRWALI: merino blended with Tencel (~240 g), suited for instability combined with sustained cold.
The base layer ensures transitions don’t become a source of chill.
3. Modular midlayers: breathe, then insulate
KOKANEE
The active fleece par excellence for unstable weather: it quickly wicks moisture on climbs and retains just enough warmth during transitions. Fits seamlessly under a hardshell in seconds.
AROLLA
Warmer brushed fleece, recommended when temperatures drop further or wind intensifies. Ideal as a second layer in cold, variable conditions.
4. Outer layer: the key tool for instability
AYAQ hardshells — SKORA, LONAK, SKORA-XT — are designed for rapid transitions. Their hydrophilic, non-microporous membrane, tested up to 52,000 Schmerbers with breathability RET < 12, offers:
- total waterproofness during showers,
- complete windproofing on exposed sections,
- water vapor evacuation to prevent condensation on climbs,
- lightweight (170 g/m²) for quick on/off.
SKORA
The most minimalist: perfect for users seeking a simple, lightweight, highly responsive piece for sudden changes.
LONAK
AYAQ’s iconic model: raglan sleeves, external tapings inspired by Inuit traditions, enveloping structure. Excellent for cold, prolonged instability.
SKORA-XT
The most equipped version: technical pockets, RECCO, multiple adjustments. The ideal tool for terrain where instability meets technical demands.
5. Dynamic alternative: the SHANDAR windbreaker
SHANDAR is perfect for quick transitions: wind blocking, high breathability, minimal weight. Ideal for:
- active climbs where carrying a hardshell is undesirable,
- wind-swept ridges,
- accelerations on varied terrain,
- unstable days without prolonged rain.
An ultra-flexible management tool designed for intense effort.
6. Lower body management: adapting to variations
- RIMO: softshell with windproof membrane front and breathable back fabric. Perfect for alternating climbs and descents.
- CLIFTON: membrane pants, highly windproof, ideal for cold, variable environments.
- NUNATAK: full hardshell for instability involving prolonged rain or wet snow.
The lower body often struggles more with fluctuations: choosing the right pants makes all the difference.
7. Effective combinations for unstable weather
- Warm instability with moderate wind: BIAFO + KOKANEE + SHANDAR.
- Cold instability with short showers: MEFONNA + KOKANEE + SKORA.
- Long-lasting changing conditions: MEFONNA + AROLLA + LONAK.
- Technical terrain with gusts and irregular rain: SHIRWALI + KOKANEE + SKORA-XT.
8. 100% European manufacturing and responsible materials
All pieces suited for unstable weather are:
- designed and woven in France, Italy, Germany,
- assembled in Portugal with expert craftsmanship,
- made from premium recycled materials or RWS merino,
- field-tested by Mike Horn and Vincent Defrasne.
Unstable weather demands responsiveness: the AYAQ wardrobe is engineered to support these transitions without compromising comfort.
Conclusion
Equipping for instability isn’t just layering up: it’s creating a coherent system that adapts instantly. Thanks to its 52,000 Schmerber hardshells, SHANDAR windbreaker, active fleeces, and RWS merino base layers, AYAQ offers reliable solutions to stay comfortable, protected, and performing even when the weather changes every ten minutes.