Could 1 Item REALLY Replace Everything In Your Closet? - Layering For The Backcountry
Everyone always says to bring layers when heading out into the backcountry, but no one ever mentions HOW MANY layers...
We would add a follow up question: WHICH layers should you bring?
All too often, outdoor enthusiasts find that the clothing they've brought on a trip just isn't working.
Layering: Too Much Or Too Little
It seems unrealistic to bring mounds of different articles of clothing to wear or take off as you account for every shift in climate, temperature, etc.
But on the flip side, not bringing enough of the right layers can turn your adventure upside down as well:
A hiker heading up in the mountains brings a puffy to keep warm, only to find that it was TOO warm (causing sweat & cold despite the lofty shell.) Or a trail runner wants breathability on a crisp early morning run so they wear a lightweight merino wool hoodie - only to find that the freezing wind cuts right through the entire time...
These are examples that most of us are familiar with. When it comes to staying comfortable in the great outdoors, bringing the right layers (& the right amount) isn't always intuitive.
Now, as promised in the title of this blog article, we'll get to some suggested solutions that can essentially replace all the extra layers you've got hanging up in your closet.
But first it's beneficial to give some more background information about versatility in fabrics, features, & insulations.
A Step In The Right Direction
In 2021, we released the Ventus Active Hoodie for presale on Kickstarter. It was a wild success, & soon we were producing thousands to ship all over the world.
What made the Ventus so unique was our application of an innovative insulation called 3DeFX™ capable of "reactive warmth".
What is reactive warmth?
Basically the insulation is warmer when you are stationary or just hanging out, but allows more heat to pass through & escape when you are in motion!
As you move, tiny coiled fibers are being stretched (like trampoline springs) which allows more heat to pass through. Then, when you stop, those coils spring back & create more loft - thus also creating more insulation value & warmth.
Think of it! When you are on-the-go, you need more ability to vent the extra heat your body is creating. If you don't, you'll end up completely drenched in sweat - which will lead to you feeling cold anyways.
That's why it's not a good idea to wear a puffy jacket while you are being active. They are TOO efficient at holding in your heat.
Then when you stop, & your body starts to cool down, you'll want some good insulation to keep you a bit warmer.
The Ventus Active Hoodie is an active mid layer designed to do just that. It is comfortable in a VERY wide range of activity levels & temperatures, & allows the user to go further and do more without having to switch to another layer.
It's one of the BEST mid layers you can bring along with you in the backcountry, & only weighs 7 oz!
But as a mid layer, it wasn't quite warm enough to replace a 3-season jacket. And there were still some other features missing to allow it to TRULY replace everything in your closet.
Even More Versatile Layering...
Fast forward to 2022. Using the same innovative 3DeFX™ insulation & 2-way stretch fabrics, we created the Vario Jacket.
The Vario Jacket boasted a full center zip, & 2 zippered side pockets in addition to the versatile features of the Ventus Active Hoodie.
It was basically a warmer Ventus Hoodie with a full zipper.
With perforated armpit vents & EXTRA 3DeFX™ insulation, the Vario is even warmer than the Ventus, but still breathable enough to handle a wide range of activity levels & temperatures.
These added features & insulation make the Vario one of the most versatile jackets available.
Not only can it keep you at the right temperature in varying activity levels outdoors, but it's sleek design ensures that you'll look great whether your hitting the town, exploring a new country, or hiking to the top of a mountain summit.
The Vario just checks all the boxes. It's warm, yet breathable. It's ultralight and packable. It looks GREAT no matter where you're going.
It's one of the most versatile & effective jackets we've ever used.
Now, is it a winter parka? No. But for 3-season applications, the Vario is certainly our go-to piece for any adventure.
The Vario is the by far the most versatile insulation piece in our collection which will allow you to carry less layers or go into the backcountry more confidently. It also prevents you from overheating when you're wearing a layer that's TOO warm for your active lifestyle.
We'll leave that up to you to decide. For us it definitely is a possibility!
4 comments
When I hiked the AT in 2023 the Ventus Hoodie was my go-to, started on March 14th and finished July 5th.
When I hiked the AT in 2023 the Ventus Hoodie was my go-to, started on March 14th and finished July 5th.
“…Or a trail runner wants breathability on a crisp early morning run so they wear a lightweight merino wool hoodie – only to find that the freezing wind cuts right through the entire time…”
so are you saying the Vario blocks the wind without saying it blocks the wind ?
Nothing could replace my NovaPro! I tend to sweat when moving and I run colder than most people so I need a warmer jacket when stopped. The Vario is a great jacket and very versatile but I still leave it behind and take my NovaPro if I’m heading into the cold, wet PNW mountains in the shoulder season or even in the winter.
