Functional clothing works. If you layer properly, like an onion

Proper layering of functional underwear: The secret to thermal comfort for sports and winter walks.

In the first part of our series on functional thermal underwear, we focused on its principles, purpose and available materials. We've discussed synthetic fibres and sheep's wool, and today we'll look at how to layer functional clothing for maximum thermal comfort. Are you familiar with the onion principle of dressing? Read on to find out how to layer properly!

What is the onion principle of dressing?

The onion principle, or the layer effect, is a method of dressing that uses multiple layers of clothing to maintain thermal comfort. You'll appreciate this system not only in sports and outdoor activities, but also in many professions where you work in a variety of conditions.

Basic layers of functional clothing

Proper functional clothing includes three key layers. Here's how to combine them for maximum comfort and functionality:

1. Base layer - base layer (suction)

The first layer is designed to wick sweat and moisture away from the skin, keeping the body dry and comfortable. This includes wool thermal underwear, socks, functional wool tanks, shorts, boxers, briefs, panties and bras. Thin short or long sleeved t-shirts also form a base layer to transport moisture to other layers.

2. Middle layer - thermal insulation

The second layer retains body heat, protects against cold and also wicks away sweat in the form of water vapour. On warmer days, this layer can be used as outerwear. This layer includes wool turtlenecks, wool sweaters, vests and fleece sweatshirts or softshell jackets.

3. Protective outer layer

The third layer protects against wind, rain and snow. The waterproof and breathable nature of the material is important, ensuring that excess heat and moisture can escape. Clothing in this layer should be waterproof and windproof. This includes jackets, trousers, windbreakers and raincoats with a membrane (e.g. Gore-Tex) or softshell.

Principles for wearing functional underwear

Wearing functional underwear correctly means that it fits snugly to the body to wick moisture away effectively. Two thinner layers are better than one thick layer for proper thermal comfort, as layering provides the ability to adjust according to exertion and temperature.

For sporting activities: dress to be slightly cool to begin with. Your body will warm up as you move and you won't sweat excessively. For example, when running, choose layers as if it were 10°C warmer outside.
For winter sports and cold days: For the mountains or skiing, choose thicker functional clothing with a higher grammage of around 200 g/m² for better insulation.
For warmer conditions and indoor activities.

How to combine functional underwear with regular clothing

Functional clothing can also be combined with regular cotton clothing, but follow certain rules. Always wear functional thermal underwear as a base layer. If you were to wear cotton underwear under a thermal shirt, the moisture would be trapped in it.

On warm days, you can combine a thermal top or T-shirt with a cotton shirt, sweater or suit - Merino wool is an ideal choice.

By using the onion principle of dressing and the correct layering of functional underwear, you will achieve not only thermal comfort, but also maximum freedom of movement and a pleasant feeling of dryness during any activity.