Super deals: At least 50% off

Mid-layers & Fleece

Under a shell a 200-weight fleece works; under a lined jacket a thin one will do.

Guide

Mid-layers & Fleece

Under an uninsulated ski jacket (a shell), a mid-weight mid-layer (your warmth layer) such as a 200-weight fleece covers most days on piste. Under an insulated ski jacket a thin stretch top is enough.

Key points

Under a shell: mid-weight, such as a 200-weight fleece.
Under an insulated ski jacket, a thin stretch top is enough.
Ski touring: start the climb in a light fleece.

Which mid-layer for which ski day?

Use	Choose	Reason
Piste under an insulated ski jacket, mild days	ChooseStretch half-zip top	ReasonThin and smooth, no bulk. Too thin under a shell on cold days
Piste under a shell, lunch stops	ChooseFleece jumper or jacket	ReasonWarm, fast-drying, easy care. Lets wind through once the jacket is off
Ski touring, freeride, fast-paced skiing	ChooseGrid and stretch fleece	ReasonGrid pattern moves a lot of air, sits close under a shell. Thin: needs a layer on top for lifts and summits
Ski weeks, hut nights, travel	ChooseWool and merino mid-layer	ReasonResists odour, soft on skin. Dries more slowly, needs care in the wash
Cold lift days, summit and descent when touring	ChooseSynthetic insulated mid-layer	ReasonPlenty of warmth, built for damp conditions. Too warm on the climb and on mild days

Types compared

Stretch half-zip top
Under an insulated ski jacket and on mild days.
- Advantage: Thin and smooth
- Drawback: Too thin under a shell on cold days
Example: Sportalm Unterzieher Women ›
Fleece jumper or jacket
On piste under a shell, and for lunch stops.
- Advantage: Warm
- Drawback: Lets wind through once the jacket is off
Example: Maier Sports Dennis ›

What to look for when buying

Question	In brief	Why
How warm should a mid-layer be?	In briefMid-weight on piste	WhyMid-weight, such as a 200-weight fleece, if you ski in a shell. Under an insulated ski jacket, go light. Fleece is graded by weight: 100 is light, 200 mid-weight, 300 heavy.
Fleece, wool or insulation?	In briefFleece for most	WhyFleece dries fast and is easy to care for. Merino resists odour but dries more slowly.
How should a mid-layer fit?	In briefClose to the body	WhyClose, with no pull under the arms. Sleeves and back must be long enough. Try it on with your ski jacket over the top: if fabric bunches, the mid-layer is too loose.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a mid-layer under an insulated ski jacket?

Not on mild days, when a base layer is enough. In hard frost or on long lift rides, add a thin mid-layer such as a stretch half-zip or a light fleece.

Can I wear a cotton hoodie under my ski jacket?

For lunch in the hut, yes. For skiing, better not. Cotton holds moisture, which leaves you damp, clammy and then cold, as the British Mountaineering Council puts it. Choose fleece or wool.

Is merino warmer than fleece?

No, not as a rule. Warmth depends mainly on fabric thickness. According to Woolmark, wool can absorb up to 35% of its weight in moisture before it feels wet, and it resists odour. Fleece dries faster.

How do I wash fleece and merino?

Wash fleece at 30 °C with a mild detergent and no fabric softener, zips closed and inside out. Wash merino on a gentle cycle with an enzyme-free detergent. Often airing is enough. The care label comes first.