Your Guide To Staying Warmer This Winter - Layer The Right Way!
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Planning a trip to the Victorian Alps—whether it's Mt Buller, Hotham, or Falls Creek—means preparing for changing alpine weather, sub-zero temperatures, and of course, snow! The secret to staying warm and dry? Smart layering. Here's a guide to help you understand the essentials of layering your snow outerwear with thermals and undergarments for peak performance and comfort on the mountain, so that your first experience is one to remember!
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1. The Base Layer: Thermals (Next-to-Skin)
This is the layer that sits directly on your skin, and it’s your first line of defense against the cold. Opt for moisture-wicking thermal underwear—typically made from merino wool. These materials help pull sweat away from your body to keep you dry and prevent that dreaded cold, clammy feeling.
What to wear:
Long-sleeve thermal top - Stocked here at Welcome
Thermal leggings or long johns - Stocked here at Welcome
Avoid cotton (it absorbs moisture and stays wet)
2. The Mid Layer: Insulation
The mid-layer acts as insulation, trapping your body heat to keep you warm. Depending on the weather, this could be a fleece pullover, a lightweight down jacket, or a synthetic puffer. The key is flexibility: you want something warm, but breathable, and easy to adjust based on activity level and temperature.
Recommended mid-layers:
Fleece hoodies or jackets - Shop the Welcome Collection
Synthetic insulated jackets - Shop the Welcome Collection
3. The Outer Layer: Shell or Snow Jacket and Pants
Your outermost layer is your shield against snow, wind, and rain. Look for waterproof, windproof, and breathable outerwear, ideally with features like powder skirts, pit zips for ventilation, and taped seams.
Snow outerwear essentials:
Waterproof snow jacket (GORE-TEX or similar) - Shop Now
Snow pants with insulation or a waterproof shell - Shop Now
4. Accessories: Often Overlooked, Always Essential
Don't forget the extras—they make a huge difference in comfort:
Socks: Thermal, moisture-wicking ski socks (avoid thick cotton socks)
Gloves or mittens: Waterproof with insulation
Neck gaiter or balaclava: For wind protection
Helmet liner or beanie: Keep your head warm without interfering with helmet fit.
Layering properly in the snow isn't just a comfort thing—it's a necessity. In the Victorian Alps, where conditions can swing from sunny to snowstorm in a matter of hours, neglecting proper layering can lead to rapid heat loss, hypothermia risk, or even serious injury. You simply can’t “tough it out” in jeans and a hoodie—once cotton gets wet, it loses all insulating power and clings cold against your skin. Likewise, skipping thermals or waterproof layers means every gust of wind or flurry of snow turns into a battle against the elements. Even seasoned locals layer up, because the cold doesn’t care how experienced you are. Without a smart layering system, you’re not just uncomfortable—you’re putting your health and your day on the mountain at risk.
Shop Everything You Need At Welcome Boardstore. Just Click The Links!!
