Layering with wool and why GSM matters

 

When I first started wearing wool, I thought they were wrong about it's warmth. I have since discovered using the GSM weight of my clothes and layering. Here's a primer with a bit of help from AI for you.

Cold-Weather Layering Made Simple (Using Wool GSM)

GSM = *grams per square meter* — basically how thick and warm the wool is. Higher GSM = warmer.

Base Layer (next to skin) 

150-250 GSM
Light, breathable, moves sweat away (getting damp away from the skin) Use 150-170 GSM for high activity, 200250 GSM for colder days.

Mid Layer (insulation) 

250-400+ GSM
  or
300-400+ GSM for very cold or low-activity days. This is your main warmth. 250-300 GSM for normal cold.

Shell Layer (outer protection) 

Not about GSM - it's about blocking wind and moisture.

If it is wool, it's usually 350-650 GSM (or boiled wool).

Quick combos:

• Mild cold: 150-200 + 250 GSM 

• Cold: 200-250 + 300-350 GSM

 • Very cold: 200-250 + 350-450 GSM

So layer smart, stay warm, and stay dry.