Often, clothing combines two adjacent layers, as in the case of warm undergarments that provide both comfort and insulation. Layered clothing usually consists of three layers. They are identified as follows:[citation needed]
The inner layer provides comfort by keeping the skin dry. Also called base layerorfirst layer.
The mid layer provides warmth. Also called an insulating layer.
The shell layer protects the other two layers from wind and/or water. Also called the outer layer.
The purpose of the inner layer is to draw sweat away from the skin to the outer layers to make them feel warmer. If a piece of clothing does not transfer moisture well, it is not strictly an inner layer garment but simply a mid-layer garment. Wool has a combination of wicking and water-repelling properties[1] and is highly odour-resistant.[2]
The mid layer is to provide additional insulation. Mid layer material includes wool, which provides insulation and has the capacity to absorb moisture. Synthetic fiberfill, such as polyester fiber, is used similarly to down.
The outermost clothes are called the shell layer, but only if they block wind or water or have good mechanical strength. Both "soft" and "hard" shell jackets and layers exist. Hard shells are commonly woven fabrics and do not rip. Soft shells may rip more easily. Examples of a shell layer include plastic raincoats and water-repellent coatings, which are often used. Before waterproof-breathable shells were invented, the "60/40" (60% cotton, 40% nylon) parka was widely used. Soft shells are not "waterproof".
The term soft shell is used to describe garments that combine partial or full water resistance with partial or full wind-breaking ability. Soft shell fabrics can come with a wicking layer. In many cases, insulation is combined.
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