The Art of Layering Part 2: Stay Warm and Dry with Insulating Mid-Layers

Hood River, OR-Staying warm and dry as the weather cools is the secret to comfort in the saddle. Using three layers of clothing will help you achieve this with the greatest of ease. Each layer has a function: the base layer (against your skin) manages moisture; the middle layer insulates you from the cold; the outer layer shields you from wind and precipitation. In Part 2 of our 3 part series, “The Art of Layering,” we will cover insulating mid-layers.

Riding is an aerobic sport where bursts of activity are followed by a period of standing still or waiting. Your insulating layer traps air close to your body to keep you warm while moving moisture away from your skin when you perspire so that you do not get cold during breaks in the activity. Fleece vests, jackets and Power StretchR tights are classic examples of insulation ideal for cool weather equestrian pursuits. They not only trap air but are also made with moisture-wicking fibers to help keep you dry.

“At Kerrits we offer mid-layers designed for riding in a variety of conditions and climates,” explains Holly Tencer, Production Manager at Kerrits. “As a novice rider and avid skier, I like a progressive layering system with an ultra-lightweight layer under the Full Zip Cardigan and a waterproof outer layer.”

Below are some of our favorite mid-layers Kerrits has to offer for Fall/Winter 2009. Look for The Art of Layering Part 3: Outerwear, coming in November.

Fleece Half Zip http://www.kerrits.com/product_HalfZipFleeceTop_w09.asp Top $64

* Buttery soft microfleece for warmth next to skin * 4-way stretch for maximum mobility * Lightweight and breatheable

Full Zip Cardigan http://www.kerrits.com/product_FullZipCardigan_w09.asp $79

* Brushed fleece interior is cozy warm * Slenderizing shape with flattering seams * Machine washable

EQ Bomber Jacket http://www.kerrits.com/product_EQBomberJacket_w09.asp $99

* Wind resistant nylon shell * Insulating poly-fill with brushed fleece interior * Stands alone or zip into Kerrits outerwear

Power Stretch http://www.kerrits.com/product_PowerStretchBreech_w09.asp R Breech $99

* Fleecy warm next to skin * 4-way stretch * Flat chafe-free seams * Eco-suede extended kneepatches work well with paddock boots

Power http://www.kerrits.com/product_PowerStretchFullLegBootcut_w09.asp StretchR Full http://www.kerrits.com/product_PowerStretchFullLegBootcut_w09.asp Leg Bootcut $109

* Grip StretchT suede leg panels * Fleecy warm next to skin with 4-way stretch * Convenient side pocket * Flattering bootcut shape

Power http://www.kerrits.com/product_PowerStretchBreatheTight_w09.asp StretchR Breathe Tight http://www.kerrits.com/product_PowerStretchBreatheTight_w09.asp $109

* Grip StretchT suede panels through the inner leg * Fleecy warm next to skin with 4-way stretch * Convenient side pocket * Snag resistant and durable

Since 1986 Kerrits Equestrian Apparel has been committed to providing innovative, functional performance apparel, designed and constructed specifically for the unique demands of women who ride and love horses. The company is based in Hood River, Oregon. For more information, go to www.kerrits.com  or call 1.800.274.7946.