Autumn weather can be unpredictable. A brisk morning can give way to midday sun, only to slip back into cool winds by evening. The key for this time of year is layering.
Layering works well because each piece serves a different role. A good base layer regulates temperature and wicks away moisture. A mid-layer traps warmth close to your body. An outer layer shields you from wind and rain. By combining these elements, you create a system that can be adjusted throughout the day, keeping you comfortable without overheating.
The Base Layer
The first layer sits directly against your skin, so its primary job is to regulate temperature by allowing heat and moisture to escape. Cotton, when woven into a substantial tee, is an ideal choice for fall- it’s breathable enough to prevent overheating, but its heavier weight provides structure and light warmth when temperatures dip.
A heavyweight short-sleeve like the SAM or BLAKE Tee is a great foundational layer. Worn on its own, it's a comfortable and classic look for the midday sun. When worn under additional layers, it adds a little more warmth than the average tee.
The Mid-Layer
Once your base is in place, the mid-layer takes on the role of insulation. Its goal is to trap warm air close to your body while still allowing excess heat to escape.
A sweater or hoodie in heavyweight cotton traps heat without excess bulk. The MYLES Crewneck and SUZUKI Hoodie use flatlock seams for durability and rib detailing for structure- features that keep the fit comfortable even when layered. Think of this as the layer that balances warmth with mobility.
The Core Insulator
The next layer focuses on your body’s core. By keeping your torso insulated, you stabilize your overall body temperature without sacrificing mobility in your arms. This is where a vest becomes an essential transitional piece.
The MONTCALM Vest is engineered for precisely this purpose. Lightweight but warm, it’s rated for comfort between -7°C and +10°C—ideal for fall’s fluctuations. Waterproof fabric shields against sudden rain, while a high collar protects your neck from wind. Its thoughtful cut (slightly longer in the back with a tapered fit) ensures it layers cleanly over a sweater, creating warmth where it matters most.
The Shell
Finally, the outer layer acts as the shield. It’s less about warmth and more about keeping the elements at bay so the layers beneath can do their jobs. A good shell is windproof, waterproof, and breathable, preventing rain or gusts from penetrating while allowing internal heat and moisture to vent.
The MONSOON Raincoat is built as a technical shell: fully seam-sealed, constructed with recycled nylon, and reinforced with a secondary waterproof membrane. Rated for comfort between -7°C and +16°C, it adapts to changing conditions without adding unnecessary weight. The adjustable hood and cuffs, high collar, and subtle step-change hem ensure coverage where you need it most, so your internal layers stay dry and effective.
Why It Works
The principle is simple: each layer has a role, and together they create flexibility. You don’t have to choose between being cold in the morning or overheated at noon. With the right system, you can adjust as the day shifts, staying comfortable and prepared without compromising on style.
