Bivouacking: why the layering system is essential for staying warm

Spending a night camping is a unique experience. Watching the sunset in the mountains, cooking under the stars and then waking up in the heart of nature are among the moments that leave a lasting impression on adventure enthusiasts. But when temperatures drop, comfort depends above all on one often-overlooked factor: managing body heat.

The secret lies not in a single very warm garment, but in a layering system, also known as layering. This method allows you to adapt your kit to temperature fluctuations, the intensity of your exertion and the weather conditions.

Why isn’t a single thick layer enough?

When hiking or camping, the body constantly alternates between periods of activity and periods of rest.

Whilst walking, it generates a lot of heat and sweats. Once settled at camp, this heat production decreases rapidly. If your clothes are damp or unsuitable, you’ll start to feel cold within minutes.

The principle of layering involves wearing several layers, each with a specific role:

wicking away sweat;
retaining heat;
protecting against wind and the elements.

This approach offers better temperature regulation than a single thick garment.

The three essential layers

1. The base layer: staying dry

The first layer is in direct contact with the skin. Its role is to wick away sweat to prevent moisture from cooling the body during breaks.

Technical base layers made from synthetic fibres or merino wool are particularly well-suited to bivouacking, as they retain their properties even after several hours of use. Discover the range of Therm-ic technical base layers.

Insulating baselayer - Extra Warm Baselayer men

Breathable and insulating baselayer for men

129,50 €

Insulating baselayer - Extra Warm Baselayer men

Breathable and insulating baselayer for men

129,50 €

Learn more

2. The insulating layer: retaining heat

Once perspiration has been wicked away, the second layer traps the warm air produced by the body.

Depending on the season, this could be a lightweight fleece, a synthetic down jacket or a jacket filled with down.

The aim is to minimise heat loss without restricting movement.

3. The outer layer: facing the elements

Even in dry weather, the wind significantly accelerates heat loss.

A windproof or waterproof jacket protects the inner layers from rain, wind and external damp whilst maintaining a good level of breathability.

The extremities: the detail that makes all the difference

People often focus their attention on their jacket or trousers, whilst the hands, feet and head are often the first areas to be affected by the cold.

These parts of the body have little muscle mass and cool down quickly when the temperature drops.

Layering gloves

As with clothing, gloves can be used in a layered system.

A pair of breathable undergloves provides an initial level of insulation whilst wicking away moisture. Discover the Therm-ic undergloves.

If temperatures drop, or in the event of rain or wind, a second pair or waterproof outer gloves provide additional protection whilst maintaining dexterity. Discover the Therm-ic Waterproof outer gloves.

This modular approach makes it easy to adapt your kit to the conditions you encounter throughout the day.

Waterproof overgloves - Weather Shield Cover black

Overgloves to protect from the elements

29,99 €

Waterproof overgloves - Weather Shield Cover black

Overgloves to protect from the elements

29,99 €

Learn more

Don’t neglect your feet

Your feet are in constant contact with the ground and can quickly lose heat during long breaks or overnight.

Technical outdoor socks suited to the conditions, combined with well-ventilated yet sufficiently protective footwear, help maintain a good level of comfort throughout your route. Discover Therm-ic trekking socks.

Adapting your kit as the day progresses

One of the main advantages of layering is its flexibility.

During the ascent, a base layer and a light outer layer are often sufficient.
During a break, it’s best to quickly add an insulating layer to retain the heat you’ve built up.
Once at camp, all the layers can be worn together as temperatures drop.

This dynamic approach prevents both overheating during exertion and getting chilled when stationary.

Accessories designed for camping and exploration

To support outdoor enthusiasts, Therm-ic offers accessories designed to work according to this layering principle.

Technical base layers, under-gloves, over-gloves, socks, hats and neck warmers can be combined to precisely tailor the level of protection to the conditions encountered.

This approach allows you to maintain excellent thermal comfort without unnecessarily adding weight to your rucksack.

Packing the right gear to make the most of your camp

A successful camp doesn’t depend solely on the quality of your tent or sleeping bag.

The way you manage your body temperature throughout the day directly influences your comfort once you’ve set up camp. By adopting the layering system and paying particular attention to your extremities, it becomes easier to stay warm and dry and to make the most of every adventure, whatever the conditions.