THE UNIFORM CHRONICLES
NAUMD is pleased to present The Uniform Chronicles, a column written by Leslie Watt McArdle, industry veteran and senior manager of merchandise and product design.
The season is upon us—Layering Season! But layering isn’t just about piling on clothes. It’s all about combining materials and garments in a strategic way to maximize warmth, comfort, and versatility—all while keeping the brand you represent front and center.
The concept of layering goes way back, even to ancient times and the Middle Ages (think knights wearing padded garments under their armor for extra warmth). But let’s fast forward to the 20th century, where layering really found its stride in the world of outdoor gear and military applications. During the World Wars, soldiers needed to stay warm in all sorts of climates, leading to innovations like wool base layers and water-resistant outer shells. A classic example? The U.S. Army’s M-65 field jacket, complete with removable liners.
The outdoor industry quickly embraced layering, with brands like Patagonia pioneering the trend in the 1970s and early 80s. The development of technical fabrics like polyester and Gore-Tex took things to the next level, making it possible to stay warm without feeling bulky. Malden Mills’ polyester microfleece, developed in the 1980s, became the go-to versatile insulating layer. Around the same time, the 3-in-1 jacket systems made their mark, offering an adaptable approach that redefined outerwear, giving people a single jacket for all weather conditions.
So, what’s the secret to layering like a pro? It’s all about managing heat and moisture. The aim is to strike a balance between insulation, breathability, and weather protection. A good layering system has three main components:
- Base Layer: The moisture-wicking foundation.
- Middle Layer: The insulating layer and your main clothing.
- Outer Layer: The protective shell that keeps out wind, rain, and snow.
Let’s break down each layer:
- Base Layer: This is your skin’s best friend, keeping you dry and cozy by wicking away moisture while providing warmth. It works best when it’s snug against your body and made from materials that manage moisture.
- Middle Layer: This is where the majority of your insulation comes from. It’s both the clothing you wear and an added layer of warmth. Think sweatshirts, sweaters, and microfleece jackets. The goal is to trap your body heat while offering the flexibility to shed a layer if you get too warm.
- Outer Layer: The outer shell is your shield against the elements, keeping out wind, rain, and snow. Thanks to advances in breathable fabrics, modern outerwear helps prevent moisture buildup while keeping you warm during long stints outside. High-tech coatings ensure that rain or snow rolls off, leaving you dry even in harsh conditions.
Layering is especially important for workers that work outside. Think about transportation and delivery drivers, airline baggage handlers, and emergency responders all with physically demanding jobs in all weather conditions. Take delivery workers, for example—they start their day early when it’s still cold, so they wear all their layers. As the day heats up and physical activity ramps up, they can peel off a layer or two to stay comfortable. The goal? To stay warm, dry, and comfortable, so they can keep moving and get the job done without missing a beat.
Adding the company logo to the middle layer and outer shell is a great way to keep your brand message front and center, even in colder weather. It’s an effective way to maintain a cohesive brand presence, whether your team is working indoors or braving the elements.
With the right layering system, you can brave the elements, stay comfortable, and keep on working, no matter what the weather throws your way!