The 16 Best Midlayers of 2026 Reviewed & Compared

Remaining true to its high-end standard of producing clothing that is not only well-made and technically on point, but also beautiful, Arc’teryx is easily the first on our list.

The Atom LT Hoody (also available in women's) is a wonderful piece of clothing and a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile layer that does just the trick for a midlayer.

Synthetically insulated with 60g/m2 Coreloft filling, the hoody provides perfect warmth for cold days when combined with a shell. It is also solid enough to be a stand-alone layer on mild spring or fall days.

The hoody features two zippered hand pockets, comes in many different colors for both women and men, and has the option of coming with a drawstring-hood.

As far as weight goes, this clocks in at only 11 ounces and is easily packable, and yet it's incredibly durable considering its light-weight.

My main criticism is just that the synthetic insulation is slightly less breathable than other newer materials out there. But the high warmth it provides is a reasonable trade-off for the moderately lower breathability.

This Arc'teryx midlayer fits quite slim so we recommend getting one size larger than normal if you plan on combining it with other layers. The hoody comes with a reasonably hefty price tag but is worth just about every dollar.

Overall, Arc’teryx’s Atom LT Hoody provides a great mix of mobility, warmth, comfort and style and, based on the extensive research put into this article, is our choice for the best overall midlayer, period.

Patagonia is the 'go-to' for many outdoor enthusiasts out there, and for very good reason. They are world-renowned for their high quality, extremely solid gear designed by adventurers for adventurers, and their R-series jackets (of which there are three models, R1, R2 & R3) are no exceptions.

But it's the R2 Fleece Jacket that has caught my eye, and is the best for cold weather in my opinion. It's debatably the warmest midlayer on this list.

The most noticeable difference between the R2 Fleece and its peers is its lack of a hood - anyone looking specifically for a hooded middle layer should stop right now and jump to other products on the list!

The R2 model combines two of Patagonia’s fleece types - their warmest on the chest/core area and a lighter style under the arms and along the sides. This has created a well-balanced sense of warmth while preventing you from totally overheating if using this jacket for cardio-intense activities. It's available in women's too.

While more expensive than other items on our list, the R2 fleece is still very reasonable compared to other Patagonia products and well priced considering its high quality and breathability. Of course, as with all fleeces, its ability to stand up to strong wind is not the best. Nor is it warm enough to also be used as an outer layer on milder days, as is the case with others on our list.

It is, however, described by many as the “ultimate athletic fleece” due to its straight-forward design, warmth, and breathability that is extremely well-suited for people on the move. For those among you who agree that fleece is the best type of middle layer, and are happy to use a midlayer without a hood, Patagonia’s R2 Fleece jacket is a solid contender.

Cotopaxi’s motto “Gear for Good” is an admirable one that translates into all aspects of its business. They pride themselves on good design, good supply, good deeds, good guarantee, and are involved in numerous projects promoting social good around the world.

Its Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Hooded Jacket is no exception to this overall goodness and is certainly our top pick for the best skiing midlayer!

It's clear from the moment you put on the Teca Cálido that it has been designed with movement in mind. No part of the jacket feels constricting, and the elastic on the hood, hem, and cuffs keeps all the heat in no matter how active you are.

The whole thing is so lightweight, it even packs down into its own chest pocket. You hardly even notice that you’re wearing it! You can easily whip it out when the temperature drops, and it's reversible too. This jacket also has a hood and a wonderful high collar that protects your neck from the elements while allowing it to easily fit under a ski-shell.

For weather resistance, this item features repurposed polyester taffeta treated with a DWR finish for standing up well to light moisture. It can’t, however, withstand much rain and definitely needs to be combined with a waterproof shell if there’s any chance of actual precipitation. This said, it is extremely breathable and a good layer to sweat in without discomfort.

Its interior zippered chest pocket provides a great place to hide your valuables while out on the slopes. The zippered hand pockets furthermore guarantee essential warmth for your extremities. On the Cotopaxi website, this jacket is described as “an all-around great adventure jacket” and this really is the case.

With a men’s and a women’s version, the Teca Cálido is without a doubt the best ski midlayer on the market!

The Arc’teryx Covert Cardigan is unlike any of the other midlayers on this list. It doesn’t look anything like what we would imagine when thinking of a midlayer—despite its clean lines and laid-back, casual style, the Covert Cardigan is also sneakily techy. All this, therefore, works together to earn the title of most stylish midlayer.

Arc’teryx claims that it was engineered to provide the “versatility, warmth and comfort of a technical fleece, with the elegant look of wool” and they certainly managed to do just this.

There is a reason that three of our top-thirteen midlayers are from Arc’teryx: they make such awesome gear and this cardigan is no exception.

While of course not well-suited for minimalist hiking, climbing adventures, high-intensity activities or extreme cold/wind, this piece certainly fits the bill for those looking for a jacket for mild-weather hiking, getting around town, commuting or car-camping.

The Alpenex Heathered 100% polyester does an incredible job of appearing like wool, but being much more lightweight, breathable, and better able to regulate temperature than real wool.

It has neither a hood nor thumb loops, but if used for what it is intended (less technical/intense adventures), you likely won’t be missing these features and instead will appreciate the clean look, zip-close pockets and stylish fit of the Arc'teryx Covert Cardigan (available for women, too).

While the differences between the R1 and Patagonia’s R2 Fleece Jackets described above might seem slight, they do result in significantly different products.

Perhaps most importantly, we should note that while the R2 jacket features Patagonia’s warmest fleece, the R1 (also available in women's) uses a lighter version that makes it much more of a classic midlayer than a jacket.

Lighter and more of a snug, slim-fit than the R2, the R1 is a layer that you would likely put on before a day of adventuring and not need to take off at any point. Its recycled and recyclable polyester makes it a layer with wonderful wicking-abilities, breathability, and warmth. This furthermore makes it versatile enough to be used both as a lightweight insulator or as a thermal base layer.

The clean-cut fit is true to its description as “athletic,” meaning no added bulk but, instead, a good design that hugs your body when you’re still and stretches when you’re moving for ski touring, climbing, hiking or more!

The Patagonia R1 stands up very well for cardio-intense activities where you want a product that provides warmth combined with extreme breathability.

Finally, its use of “permanent odor control” material is another reason to make this your go-to product for high-intensity adventuring.

Although the Cotopaxi Abrazo Hooded Full-Zip Fleece Jacket is perhaps less compact and “techy” than other mid layers featured on this list, I still love it!

This fleece comes in women’s and men’s models, both of which have a hood, deep side pockets, a zip-chest pocket, and come in various colors.

Despite my inclination to suggest it more for casual wear than for high-tech needs, it is extremely warm and stands up well to the elements. This weather resistance is courtesy of the wind and water resistant polyester shell along with a scuba-style hood.

What's more, this jacket is true to size, stylish, soft, warm without being too bulky and flexible enough to allow for more layers both under and over it if needed. I feel confident saying that the Cotopaxi Abrazo Hooded Full-Zip Fleece Jacket merits the title of top midlayer jacket.

My only wish is that it packed down a little smaller to make it more portable. In the long run, however, the long list of benefits far outweighs this little gripe.

Cotopaxi became known in the outdoor gear world for its unique Del Día packs that were always “crafted with purpose and passion.” Lucky for midlayer shoppers out there, Cotopaxi has since branched out into clothing design. These designs have resulted in this wonderful Abrazo Hooded Full-Zip Fleece Jacket (available for women as well), which has clearly been made with equal purpose and passion.

If you’re the type who, no matter the weather or activity, always likes to have a hoody somewhere in your layering system, then Vigor Grid Fleece Full Zip Hoodie is the one for you. Outdoor Research has a long history of quality products that hold up to just about anything, and this item is no exception!

The grid fleece structure hoody works wonders to help you stay warm when needed and cool when not. This is thanks to its lightweight build and excellent quick-drying properties that are continually working to wick moisture away from you.

This will help keep the chill away when working hard in the cold by wicking that sweat and excess moisture away from your body. When you're out in warmer days, however, the light construction won't roast you.

The result? A very versatile hoody that can be taken just about anywhere for anything!

Arc’teryx’s Cerium LT Hoody is yet another incredibly impressive example of the thorough attention to detail that Arc’teryx gives its products. It is clear that every inch of this 10-ounce down jacket has been thought through, which easily makes it a killer choice for nearly all circumstances.

Arc'teryx uses nothing but premium materials, including lightweight but durable zippers for both the main zip and the two hand zips. It also features an easily-adjustable StormHood and a combination of insulation types (down and synthetic, depending on location on the jacket).

These work with the jacket's clean-line construction and design, lack of loose threads and well-kept 850-fill-power white goose down stuffing.

Amazingly light, remarkably warm and tastefully elegant, this jacket is an impressive piece of construction that will help you stay warm on any but the absolute coldest or wettest days. Arc’teryx knows that the downfall of most down insulated jackets is their low ability to withstand moisture, and has responded to that with this gem.

Goose-down is used in the areas where insulation is most important (torso and core), while synthetic insulation that stands up better to moisture is used in the areas most likely to collect moisture (underarms, sleeves and along the shoulders). All of these features add up to make this item arguably the best down midlayer on the market.

The whole jacket appears seamless though and overall provides an extremely efficient combination of warmth, water-resistance, packability and elegance. With its hefty price tag, it is perhaps a bit steep to use purely as a midlayer, although relative to other down insulated midlayers on the market it is not an obscene price.

For anyone seeking a higher-end middle layer that provides versatility for use as a stand-alone down jacket as well as a very warm midlayer, the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody has you covered. There's a women's version as well!

Anyone looking for an inexpensive and classic looking fleece that will give you a decent amount of protection from the elements should definitely check out Columbia’s Steens Mountain Full Zip Fleece.

It is without a doubt the cheapest midlayer on our list, but still packs a punch, and we easily consider it to be the best budget midlayer out there. Soft, comfortable, and perfect to throw on after a day out skiing, snow-boarding or doing any other fun, and cold, outdoor activity!

In terms of technicality and extra features, saying “you get what you pay for” is certainly relevant here. As a low-budget layer, the Steens Mountain Full Zip isn't packed with extra features like other, more expensive options. That said, for its price, it's a very solid “no-frills” layer that will do the job of keeping you warm.

I think this layer is best suited as a sweater to wear inside rather than as a go-to layer for outdoors activities. Those of you who are therefore looking for something more technical/guaranteed to keep you warm on a really cold day outdoors should probably consider splurging a bit more cash on one of the other more substantial layers we have coming up.

Nevertheless, the Steen's Mountain Full Zip Fleece is still your best option if you don't want to break the bank!

The North Face ThermoBall Eco Hoodie is a perfect match for cold-weather hiking. It uses advanced ThermoBall Eco insulation, which is designed to mimic the insulation performance of down while staying much warmer in wet conditions.

This midlayer jacket is lightweight and easily packable—perfect for stashing in a backpack during a hike.

It is also surprisingly breathable, so you won't instantly be drenched as you start to warm up on a big uphill slog.

The best part? Both the face fabric and ThermoBall Eco insulation material are 100% recycled, so this jacket is helping to keep waste out of landfills. That's a win-win!

Since 1938, Columbia has gained a solid reputation for having reasonably high quality gear at accessible prices, as well as for having great customer service. The Mountainside Heavyweight Fleece is a classic article of clothing that works really well as far as budget-midlayers go.

Its contrasting colors, available for both men and women, make it more of a flashy choice than some of the other options here. So if you’re looking for a bit of pizzazz in your midlayer, this is a great option for you!

It runs pretty roomy and can easily fit two or more layers underneath it. Functionally, it works wonderfully as a standalone outer layer for a day of adventuring, or as a midlayer when used with a solid outer shell.

While somewhat basic of a layer in comparison with some of the more expensive midlayers we’ve talked about, it is clear that Columbia paid attention to both the important things.

The fleece is very warm, soft and cozy—and it has very attractive small details such as a subtle and useful zippered breast pocket, along with awesome contrasting color highlights on the hems and seams.

It’s very much a “wear anywhere” fleece and allows you to effortlessly switch between hiking on a trail, to having a snow-ball fight, to drinking craft beers in your local brewery!

Note, however, that it's noticeably bulkier than other more athletic cut midlayers. But all around, this is a clear choice for the best midlayer fleece on the market!

The North Face Denali Jacket is ultra-breathable, lightweight and perfect for the outdoor-adventure-loving woman.

It features a stylish retro design that looks great around town and technical design elements to keep it ready for anything from afternoon hikes to big wall climbing. You can use it as a midlayer or wear it on its own.

A full length zipper works well on this piece both to increase ventilation and ease the process of taking it on and off.

This heavyweight fleece is very durable, warm, and comfortable. While it was originally designed for climbers, the Denali jacket is extremely versatile. Wear it on big adventures. Wear it to walk the dog. Wear it wherever. It just works.

This cut isn't the most slim-fitting and may result in a more boxy look than a more fitted, flattering alternative, depending on body type. But if you like the old-school fleece look, this should be right up your alley.

This said, as far as mid-range priced midlayers go, this is definitely the best option for women that I've looked at, and is an awesome choice for any woman seeking a layer that is designed specifically for females.

ODLO's FLI LIGHT Midlayer Full-Zip Jacket is suitable for relatively warm days, or, when combined with another thinner base layer, for cooler days. Which, together, make it the ideal midlayer for summer.

It is great for those spring or summer mornings to keep the sun off your skin, and is especially protective in windy conditions. This layering piece loves company, too, and is great with a thinner base layer in colder conditions.

As with all of ODLO’s products, the FLI LIGHT Midlayer is Fair-Wear certified (guaranteeing that it is made by people working under fair labor conditions).

It is extremely light, making it packable and breathable. The midlayer also has good moisture management for sweating and considerable wicking properties for light dampness.

With its athletic cut and extremely light weight material, it is a good option for everyday layering. However, its thinness makes us admit that we don’t recommend relying on this one as your most reliable go-to midlayer for each and every occasion.

For those of you who haven’t heard of Kari Traa, it is the fastest-growing sports brand in Europe, started by the Norwegian champion freestyle skier of the same name.

Kari’s goal with her clothing company was to create sports clothes “for girls, by girls” and she has managed to do just that, with huge success.

Her Rothe Midlayer Fleece Jacket is a wonderful example of the cute, funky style she brings to her designs, as well as the ability her team has to combine usefulness with unique fashion.

This is certainly a wonderful layering piece designed to provide cozy comfort and warmth when worn underneath a ski jacket on a chilly day. But its usefulness doesn't stop there as it also has a serious potential to turn heads after skiing when you’re enjoying your post-run drinks.

Although it doesn’t have a hood (likely because it was designed to be worn along with a hooded ski-jacket), it still has some very useful features.

This fleece boasts a high collar with a chin guard, and has three generous sized zip-pockets: two for the hands and one for the chest.

While it doesn’t hold up well as a rain jacket or to strong wind, it does work extremely well when combined with a good shell.

It fits true to size, has funky sleeve cuffs and comes in several great color combinations.

ODLO once again makes this list with their Essential Half-Zip Midlayer. Light but polyester fabric combined with excellent wicking properties and a guaranteed ‘Fair Wear Foundation’ construction, and you have an ideal active midlayer.

The lightweight material used here is flexible to keep you on the move, and its moisture-wicking properties keep you cool and dry during your activities.

And if you’re working so hard that body heat starts to build up, you can easily dump some of that warmth with the half-zip design. An added bonus, its ZeroScent tech neutralizes body odor by limiting bacteria build up, keeping you fresh even during your most rigorous activities.

Now I do wish that this came with a hood to seal the deal for colder weather use, but as a more lightweight construction than other items on our list, I have to recommend it as the best standalone three-season active option.

But, as with any midlayer, they're designed for layering. So, when those colder temperatures roll in, put this layering piece under a solid outer shell, and you'll be good to go!

For those of you always on the move, adventuring, or exercising, this can undoubtedly be your new go-to midlayer! Light, warm, stretchy, and stylish to boot, it is a natural choice for active use.

When you’re on the move, need excellent moisture wicking, want your skin to breathe, and prefer to limit your environmental footprint – then the Coalatree Baseline Midlayer is made especially for you!

This garment is designed and constructed with the environment in mind, and is literally made with used coffee grounds (yes, you read that right). Unlike most performance wear, the Baseline does not shed micro plastics when it's washed, keeping your water system free of waste. However, don’t let that trick you into thinking that this can’t hold its own against other items on the list!

The Coalatree Baseline’s construction and durability are absolutely top-notch! Excellent moisture wicking and breathability are the name of the game, making this midlayer your best friend for high intensity activities. Ski touring, hiking or climbing, it’ll have your back - and its anti-microbial properties keep you fresher longer.

While its insulation powers are limited, the Coalatree Baseline's unique honeycomb fabric keeps your midlayer soft for years to come. The temperature regulation, moisture wicking, and breathable DWR-coating therefore all work together to bring together a solid performance oriented midlayer, that’s environmentally friendly to boot! Certainly one of the best on the market for you green minded adventurers out there!