Wind is one of the most underestimated factors in the mountains. It accelerates heat loss, disrupts garment breathability, and can turn a comfortable outing into a critical situation, even at moderate temperatures. Dressing for the wind means balancing protection and ventilation without ever trapping the body — a core principle of AYAQ’s philosophy, shaped by the field experience of Vincent Defrasne and Mike Horn.
1. The Role of the Three-Layer System Against Wind
Wind mainly affects two things: heat dissipation from exertion and the garment’s ability to maintain stable temperature. The three-layer system allows precise control over this response:
- RWS Merino wool base layer (SHIRWALI (men / women) for extra warmth; BIAFO (men / women) or MEFONNA (men / women) for a lightweight 100% merino; MOLVENO or ISEO for intense efforts). Merino wool remains the best fiber for managing thermal variations.
- Breathable midlayer such as the Active Fleece Jacket KOKANEE (men / women) or the midlayer MEOLA. Their role is to retain a thin layer of warm air while allowing moisture vapor to escape.
- Windproof outer layer or hardshell. This layer truly defines protection. SHANDAR (men / women) for intense effort, RAVEN (men / women) for wind resistance during dynamic activity, LONAK (men / women) or LONAK-XT (men / women) for harsher environments.
The goal is not to block wind from reaching the body at all costs but to prevent sudden drops in core temperature — while preserving the system’s breathability.
2. Understanding the Difference Between Windproof, Softshell, and Hardshell
The ultra-light windproof SHANDAR (men / women) is designed for sustained effort. It effectively blocks apparent wind (created by speed in trail running or ski touring) while allowing moisture to escape. Open it on climbs, close it on exposed ridges.
The softshell RAVEN (men / women) offers a more structured solution. Ideal for dynamic but less intense activities, it blocks cold wind while providing better breathability than a hardshell. Its European abrasion-tested fabric ensures durability for regular use on technical terrain.
The hardshells LONAK (men / women) and LONAK-XT (men / women) protect against strong wind and blowing snow. Their recyclable hydrophilic Sympatex membrane, tested to 52,000 Schmerbers, remains effective even when saturated. Ventilation must be actively managed via zippers, especially on climbs.
3. Wind + Effort: Common Mistakes
Overdressing at the start. Wind masks the warmth generated by effort. If the base layer is too thick (e.g., a SHIRWALI (men / women) on a gentle climb), overheating and internal moisture buildup can occur quickly.
Wanting to “close everything” as soon as the wind picks up. During dynamic activity, fully closing a hardshell creates a humid microclimate that cools as soon as pace slows. It’s better to slightly open the main zipper or adjust ventilation.
Ignoring the lower body. Wind chills the thighs severely on exposed climbs. A softshell pant RIMO (men / women) is often sufficient, but in very wet or windy conditions, a hardshell pant NUNATAK (men / women) becomes essential.
4. Adapting to Wind Type
Apparent wind (trail running, cross-country skiing, ski touring): prioritize highly breathable pieces: MOLVENO, ISEO, SHANDAR (men / women), KOKANEE (men / women).
Cold wind in winter hiking: warm base layer (SHIRWALI (men / women)), midlayer MEOLA or KOKANEE (men / women), softshell RAVEN (men / women).
Strong wind at high altitude: LONAK (men / women) or LONAK-XT (men / women), lightweight but high-performance base layer (MEFONNA (men / women) or BIAFO (men / women)), pants NUNATAK (men / women).
5. European Materials and Consistent Performance
AYAQ fabrics come from Italy, France, Germany, and Portugal, meeting strict durability standards. Hydrophilic membranes like Sympatex, which are non-microporous, maintain windproof effectiveness over time and do not clog. Recycled polyamides in softshells retain natural wind resistance while remaining highly breathable. RWS-certified merino wool preserves its thermoregulating properties even when wet.
Equipping yourself according to the wind means understanding how each layer contributes to maintaining stable thermal balance. With a coherent, adjustable, and real-time ventilated system, wind becomes a controlled factor — not a threat.
