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title: "Layering Guide | How to Layer Clothing Like A Pro | Marmot®"
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> **Original source:** https://www.marmot.com/layering_guide.html

### **How to Choose Mid Layer Clothing**

When choosing the best mid layer, like base layers, it’s ultimately up to your preference and the right material for the weather and activity:

1\. **Goose down mid layers** offer the highest quality natural insulation and the best warmth-to-weight ratio with its fluffy, yet lightweight, breathable, and packable features. Because of their packability, down jackets are easy to bring along, allowing you to add or shed them during changing conditions or outputs. Down can also double as a mid or outer layer.

In wet conditions or on multi-day winter backpacking grips, water-repellant treatments like our Marmot® Down Defender can help down retain its insulation capabilities.

Our [Marmot®’s WarmCube Active Alt HB](https://www.marmot.com/p/mens-warmcube-active-alt-hb-jacket-2024/AFS_195115167905.html) is a breathable down insulation that features temperature regulating technology that circulates air through insulated cubes in the core and back of your jacket to keep you cool as you move and retain warmth when you stop, so you’re always ready for the path ahead.

**Pro Tip: Suit up in the Alt HB collection when heading into the backcountry or during intense activities during colder months.**

2\. **Fleece mid layers** are also popular due to their softness, versatility, and breathability. Plus you can find your fleece layers in just about any style and color imaginable.

**Pro Tip: Pull on the fleece when heading to the resort or when you won’t shed or add layers as often.**

3.**Synthetic insulation mid layers** are best known for their breathability and ability to insulate even when wet, unlike down insulation, making synthetics invaluable during survival situations. Synthetic insulation is often more heavy-weight and less packable than down, but is also used for mid or outer layering.

Our [Marmot®’s WarmCube Active Novus](https://www.marmot.com/men/jackets-and-vests/insulated-and-down/mens-warmcube-active-novus-jacket/AFS_195115110215.html) is a breathable synthetic insulation with temperature regulating technology that circulates air through insulated cubes in the arms, core, back, and hood of the jacket to keep you cool as you move and retain air when you stop, so you keep warm as you keep going. 

**Pro Tip: Our Active Novus collection is at its best at the resort, on hiking trips, and for everyday exploration in any cold conditions.**