Q: This may be a dumb question, but when people discuss the mid layer they never talk about bottoms (pants). I want to direct my question toward skiing. When I ski (mostly in NC and WV), what should I wear between my base layer and my ski pants, or should I wear anything there at all? If there should be something there, what do you suggest around the boot. I don't want it bunched up on top of the boot but I don't know if it will fit over the boot.

Adam Hurley
Asheboro, NC

Hey Adam,

A: Legs don’t require as much insulation as your upper body to stay warm, so most people only wear one layer under their shell pants. The thickness of this layer depends on a lot of variables: the temperature, whether you ski hard or take it easy, if your shells are insulated, if you get cold easily, if the chair lifts are slow, etc.

I wear a pair of un-insulated shells for all my skiing and have two base layers that I wear depending on the weather. I’ll wear a midweight pant like the Mountain Hardwear Thermadry Tights for early and late-season conditions when I’m more likely to overheat than get cold. In the dead of winter, when temps are well below freezing, I’ll wear the heavyweight base layer pants under my shell. I’ve only worn the two together a few times, and every time it has proved to be too hot.

Synthetic layers like polyester and fleece have been the go-to choice for years because of their quick drying properties. However, many skiers now use soft merino wool. It doesn’t itch like traditional wool, and its natural properties drastically reduce the stink factor. Merino also does a better job of regulating your body’s temperature, so you’re less likely to overheat when the temps rise.

For the boot issue, the trick is to use short base layers (stop above your boot) instead of full length. A few companies make 3/4-lenth base layer pants, or you can make your own with help from a good pair of scissors.