The last several years have seen a rise in prominence of technical clothing systems. Dressing in layers increases your ability to perform outdoors, albeit hiking, mountain climbing, skiing, hunting, working, and so on. Modern textiles are the reason for this. The 5.11 Tactical Multi-Layering System exemplifies this.
Technical Clothing 101
What do I mean by technical clothing? Innovative fabrics and construction techniques to serve a specific function. Garments created for performance criteria, not just aesthetics. Gore-Tex is an excellent example. Co-inventors Wilbert L. Gore and his son, Robert W. Gore uncovered a method that allowed Teflon to be stretched into a thin membrane that allowed vapor to pass through it while repelling liquid water. In other words, rain could not penetrate, yet a person’s own body heat/moisture could escape. Other synthetic materials have evolved that perform similar functions. A technical layering system is all about reducing the weight and bulk of clothing while enhancing performance.
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The Two Keys to an Effective Layering System
Of the many things discovered researching this article, two main themes stand out:
1) It is important to have a base layer fabric that is engineered to draw sweat and moisture away from the body. This ensures that you will stay dry and warm during aerobic activity in environments that can be cold.
2) Importance of being able to layer your clothing based on conditions experienced and/or anticipated. 5.11 has created a very informative webpage that guides users through the layer decision-making process, breaking it into five levels.
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Why Layering Matters in the Field
I have been using the 5.11 Tactical Multi-Layering system items for the last several hunting seasons. This includes multiple hunts in West Virginia, Texas, and Wyoming. Surprisingly, the late-season hunt with a steady dose of cold temperatures is easiest to account for. Why is that? In October and November, mornings can start in the high 20s and then warm up into the 50s or even 60s. That fluctuation demands more attention to detail. As the sun starts to dip low in the late afternoon, those colder temperatures are not too far away again. The importance of being able to layer your clothing is the answer.
Adapting to Changing Conditions
For example, temperatures in southwest TX started in the 30’s and rise 50s-60s during the afternoon. 5.11’s Multi-Layer System was ideal for adapting to Texas conditions. Being able to dress appropriately for warmth in the morning, yet still not overheat as the sun rises, was crucial. Even more so if an opportunity for a stalk presented itself. 5.11’s Multi-Layer system allowed me to shed layers as appropriate based on temperature and activity level.
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A moisture-wicking base layer is crucial. Worn next to skin, this base layer garment is made of fabric that is engineered to draw sweat and moisture away from the body. This “wicking” transports moisture away from the skin, regulating body temperature. Sweat goes through to the next layer of clothing, so the base stays dry. The 5.11 Tropos top and tights were my go-to. Constructed from a cutting-edge Graphene blend, the Tropos items provided all-day comfort across a wide range of conditions. The Graphene blend is also anti-microbial. Flatlock seams eliminate chafing and lengthen the life of your top, while tough raglan construction in the shoulders provides extra protection against abrasion.
Pay Attention to That Mid Layer
The mid-layer has the most variety in what is appropriate based on temperatures and activity level. 5.11 Tactical recognizes this and breaks this into Layer 2 (L2) and Layer 3 (L3) categories. In milder conditions, the mid-layer could also act as the outer layer, but bear in mind it is not designed to protect against rain, wind, or other external influences. Still, maintaining airflow is important so that the wearer can stay warm without overheating. Light jackets, fleeces, and hoodies are examples of mid layers. 5.11’s Stratos Hoodie and Jasper Long Sleeve Thermal were my 5.11 L2 layer choices.
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5.11’s L3 mid layer functions as a protective/outerwear barrier. It stops cold wind from penetrating to help the wearer retain body heat. The thermal insulation assists in warmth at colder temperatures. I combined the 5.11 Adventure Insulated Vest and Preston Jacket for my L3 layer. The introduction of insulation will keep you warm yet mobile.
Completing the System
My final 5.11 Tactical layer options were the Cold Weather OPS Shirt and Aggressor Parka. The Cold Weather OPS shirt provides warmth with its bonded and stretch fleece upper fabrics. The Aggressor Parka is more of a combination of 5.11 L4 and L5 attributes. L4 being water repellent and L5 being static cold. The 5.11 Tactical Aggressor Parka is a 3-in-1 design with a breathable, waterproof outer shell and removable fleece liner that can double as a standalone tactical jacket.
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Even in Wyoming’s bitter cold, the OPS shirt and Aggressor Parka never let me down when combined with other 5.11 layers. 5.11 Tactical URSA gloves, watch cap, and TDU pants were also part of my hunting gear. More than any other layer, your outer shell is a barrier to breathability, which is a problem when you are exerting yourself. With a proper layer approach, you can remove your 5.11 L4 and/or L5 layer and store it in your pack to better regulate your body heat with the knowledge that your other garments will take care of you.
The key to dressing appropriately outdoors is flexibility. This is something the 5.11 Tactical Multi-Layer System provides. You can bet 5.11 Tactical will continue to add products to continue providing the best options to its customers.
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