EMBRACE THE ELEMENTS
THE 5.11® MULTI-LAYERING SYSTEM
Whether you’re battling a sudden downpour or your own body’s heat as you push through a grueling hike, layering is your secret weapon. It gives you control over your body temperature, helps you manage sweat, and shields you from the elements. Remember, it’s not just about enduring the elements…
… it’s about embracing them.
L1: The Baselayer
This is the most important layer you will wear! 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 ensures that you will stay dry and warm during aerobic activity in environments that can be cold, and variable.
Layering Pro Tip: Select base layers with screen printed labels and lay flat seams. Nobody wants to struggle with scratchy tags and rolled up edges three or four layers down.
L2: Insulative and Breathable
This layer offers optimal warmth and breathability. There are various weights and thicknesses of garments, that you can choose from, depending on what weather you are going out into. Light jackets, fleeces and hoodies retain heat and permit airflow so that the wearer can stay warm without overheating.
Layering Pro Tip: Hoods, cowls, and thumb holes are small details that can enhance body heat retention when necessary without adding a ton of bulk.
L3: Thermal Wind Protection
Functioning as a protective barrier, this outerwear layer stops cold wind from penetrating to help the wearer retain body heat. The thermal insulation assists in warmth retention at colder temperatures.
Layering Pro Tip: As an active insulation layer, your L3 jacket or coat needs features that can vent the heat that builds up while you're on the move. Look for flaps, zippers, and drawstring hemlines that can be adjusted easily.
L4: Water Repellency
This outerwear layer is your best defense against variably rainy conditions. The Durable Water repellency and breathability of the fabric allows moisture transfer away from the body while keeping wetness out. This enables the wearer to continue active outdoor activities while remaining dry and warm.
Layering Pro Tip: The toughest grade zippers aren’t enough to keep water out. Storm flaps and adjustable cuffs are a must for rain coats.
L5: Static Cold Insulation
This puffy parka layer will keep you warm in extreme cold and dry conditions when movement is minimal. The wind resistance of the fabric keeps out drafts so that lofty insulation can retain the maximum amount of body heat.
Layering Pro Tip: Don’t forget to size up to accommodate the extra layers.
