The 3-layer system is the foundation of outdoor protection. It manages heat, moisture, and weather changes by combining three complementary functions: wicking moisture, retaining insulation, and shielding from the elements. When well executed, this system provides stable thermal comfort, reduces chill risks, and allows quick gear adjustments based on activity intensity.
1. Why use a 3-layer system?
The body generates heat and sweat as effort increases. If moisture isn’t evacuated, it cools rapidly during breaks or in wind. Insufficient insulation lets cold in quickly. Without reliable outer protection, rain or snow saturate clothing. The 3-layer system addresses these three challenges precisely.
2. Layer 1: moisture management (base layer)
The first layer handles sweat and keeps skin dry. At AYAQ, it’s made exclusively from RWS-certified merino wool, which absorbs moisture, regulates temperature, and performs even when damp. Options vary by weather and effort: Mefonna (100% lightweight merino) for intense activity; Biafo (100% versatile merino) for year-round use; Shirwali (merino + Tencel ~240g) for cold and early starts.
3. Layer 2: heat retention (midlayer)
The midlayer creates thermal volume to protect from cold while allowing moisture to escape. The fleece Kokanee balances insulation and breathability. In very cold conditions, a lightweight insulated piece like ULTAR (men / women) or FORNO (men / women) further stabilizes temperature.
4. Layer 3: protection from elements (hardshell or softshell)
The outer layer shields from wind, rain, and snow. AYAQ hardshells (LONAK (men / women), LONAK-XT (men / women)) feature a recyclable Sympatex membrane offering 52,000 Schmerbers waterproofing while increasing breathability as internal moisture rises. For dry, windy conditions, the softshell RAVEN (men / women) or windbreaker SHANDAR (men / women) provide lighter, highly mobile protection.
5. How to adjust the layers?
The key to the 3-layer system is proactive management. Add or remove layers before feeling hot or cold. Ventilation zippers should be used from the start of activity. A good system allows precise protection adjustments without interrupting the activity.
6. AYAQ expertise
Vincent Defrasne reminds us: “Cold comes from moisture. The 3-layer system’s role is to prevent it from staying on the skin.” Mike Horn, who tests AYAQ jackets in extreme environments, emphasizes the importance of a breathable membrane during increased effort: solid protection without trapping internal moisture.
Conclusion
The 3-layer system is a simple yet highly effective tool for all outdoor activities. With an RWS merino base layer, breathable fleece midlayer, and Sympatex 52,000 Schmerbers hardshell, AYAQ’s wardrobe lets you face cold, wind, rain, and temperature changes while maintaining comfort and mobility.
