Mountain cold is influenced not only by outside temperature but also by wind, humidity, exertion level, and clothing saturation, all shaping thermal comfort. To maintain performance, understanding insulation, ventilation, and the three-layer system is essential. AYAQ hardshells — SKORA, SKORA-XT (formerly LONAK-XT), LONAK, and BATURA — are engineered precisely for these conditions.
1. The Principle: Retain Heat Without Trapping Moisture
Insulation doesn’t generate heat; it traps warm air produced by the body. Overheating leads to excess internal moisture, which quickly causes cooling once effort decreases. The three-layer system balances these flows.
2. Base Layer: The Foundation of Thermoregulation
A damp base layer in wet cold is the main cause of mild hypothermia. Certified RWS merino wool is essential:
- BIAFO: 100% lightweight merino for intense effort in cold air.
- MEFONNA: versatile merino for a broad temperature range.
- SHIRWALI: merino + Tencel (240 g) for severe cold or intermittent activity.
- ISEO: breathable long-sleeve alternative for sustained effort.
3. Midlayer: Creating a Stable Warm Air Volume
Midlayers act as thermal buffers:
- KOKANEE: active fleece jacket, ideal for climbs or continuous effort.
- MEOLA: softer thermal layer, perfect for moderate pace.
The most common mistake: using an overly thick midlayer during ascent → overheating → moisture → sudden chill at rest.
4. Outer Layer: Wind, Snow, Cold Rain
AYAQ hardshells all feature a 170 g/m² hydrophilic membrane, the most waterproof in outdoor gear, tested up to 52,000 Schmerbers, with excellent breathability (RET < 12). They contain no PFCs.
- SKORA: ultra-performance simplicity, set-in sleeves, perfect for dry or damp cold when activity remains dynamic.
- SKORA-XT (LONAK-XT): same uses as SKORA, with added features (chest pockets, revolver pocket, skin pockets, multiple adjustments, RECCO). Ideal for strong winds or technical terrain.
- LONAK: iconic piece with raglan sleeves and symbolic Inuit taping. Perfect for dry cold, strong wind, and blowing snow. Excellent breathability for long effort days.
- BATURA: the only AYAQ hardshell with premium insulation. The solution for wet cold, cold rain, and exposed outings alternating effort and static phases. It combines full protection with stable insulation.
5. Insulation: Choose According to Pace
For slow phases or breaks:
- VIEDMA: active insulation suited to movement.
- ULTAR and FORNO: lightweight insulation for breaks, exposed ridges, or transitions.
- BATURA: integrated insulation + hardshell → safest option for prolonged wet cold.
6. Lower Body: Minimizing Major Heat Loss
Thighs lose significant heat in cold wind. Depending on conditions:
- RIMO: softshell ideal for sustained effort in dry cold.
- NUNATAK: waterproof/breathable hardshell for snow, strong wind, or cold rain.
- INGIA: insulated pants for alpine skiing or long static periods.
7. Common Cold Weather Mistakes
Overdressing at the start → sweating → sudden chill.
Not ventilating: SKORA, SKORA-XT, LONAK, and VIEDMA should be opened early during ascent.
Ignoring internal moisture: a cold synthetic base layer = immediate heat loss.
Not adapting the hardshell to conditions: strong wind → SKORA-XT or LONAK; cold rain → BATURA; continuous effort → SKORA or LONAK.
8. European Materials for Lasting Performance
All pieces are made in Europe (fabrics from Italy, France, Germany, Portugal). Merino wool is RWS certified. Non-microporous hydrophilic membranes ensure stable breathability even when saturated. Recycled polyamides provide durability and thermal stability.
Equipping against cold means choosing a coherent system: a base layer managing moisture, a midlayer regulating heat, and a suitable hardshell (SKORA, SKORA-XT, LONAK, or BATURA). Properly combined, this system maintains performance in dry cold, strong wind, or cold rain.