How to Layer for Skiing or Snowboarding (Using Used Clothing Only)

Staying warm in winter sports isn’t about buying the newest $500 jacket on the wall. It’s about understanding layers.

Smart layering keeps you warmer, drier, and more comfortable than any single “miracle” jacket. And here’s the best part:

Every single layer you need can be bought used — sustainably, affordably, and without sacrificing performance.

This guide walks you through:

• The three-layer system

• How to build it entirely from used clothing

• What to look for when you’re shopping secondhand

Why Used Layers Can Actually Perform Better Than New

Outdoor apparel is built to last, which means it ages surprisingly well.

• Synthetic base layers often wick better after a few washes.

• Fleece and midlayers keep their warmth for years.

• Shells can be re-treated and waterproof for a long time with simple care.

• Used clothing is usually 40–70% cheaper than brand-new gear.

Buying used isn’t “settling.” It’s just smart.

You get:

• Higher-end brands for the same price as low-end new gear

• More pieces (and more layering options) for the same budget

• Less textile waste, more life out of gear that’s already built

The Three-Layer System (Using Used Clothing Only)

For almost any winter sport — skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, winter hiking — you can think in three layers:

1. Base layer – keeps you dry

2. Midlayer – keeps you warm

3. Shell – keeps the weather out

You can easily build all three entirely from secondhand clothing.

1. Base Layer – Moisture Management

This is the layer right against your skin. Its only job: move sweat away so you don’t get clammy and cold.

Best materials:

• Merino wool

• Synthetic blends (polyester, nylon, etc.)

• Merino/synthetic blends

Avoid if possible:

• Cotton (will hold more moisture when compared to merino and synthetic blends)

What to look for in used base layers:

• Minimal pilling — some is fine, but avoid completely fuzzed-out fabric

• No stretched-out necks or cuffs

• Seams still flat and intact

• Smell test: it should not smell funky when dry, especially for wool

Price reality check (typical):

• New: around $50–$150 for good tops and bottoms

• Used: often $15–$40 per piece

Base layers are one of the easiest and safest things to buy used.

2. Midlayer – Insulation & Heat Retention

The midlayer traps warm air around your body. You can use:

• Fleece jackets or pullovers

• Synthetic puffy jackets

• Wool sweaters

• Light insulated shirts / active insulation pieces

What to look for in used midlayers:

• Zippers should run smoothly (run them up and down a few times)

• Elbows, shoulders, and cuffs shouldn’t be threadbare

• For puffies: squeeze the insulation — it should bounce back instead of staying flat

• No giant burns, oil stains, or weird smells

Why used is ideal here:

Insulating layers often have years of life left even after the first owner is done with them. The first owner paid for depreciation; you get the warmth.

Price reality check:

• New midlayers: around $60–$250+

• Used midlayers: usually $20–$80

3. Outer Shell – Weather Protection

Your shell keeps out wind, snow, and wet. This can be:

• A waterproof/breathable hardshell

• An insulated ski jacket

• A softshell jacket for drier, high-output days
  

Used shell inspection checklist:

• Seam taping on the inside should not be peeling or flaking.

• No big delamination (bubbling or separation) inside the fabric.

• Zippers glide easily and don’t snag repeatedly.

• Cuffs, hood, and hem still have structure — not shredded.

If the fabric wets out quickly (water stops beading on the surface), don’t panic — that’s a DWR issue, not necessarily a death sentence. You can re-treat the fabric with a spray-on or wash-in waterproofing.

Price reality check:

• New technical shell: $200–$500+ easily

• Used shell: often $40–$200, sometimes less if it’s a couple of seasons old

Layering Templates (Real-World Examples)

Here are simple plug-and-play used gear outfits for different winter activities.

Downhill Skiing / Snowboarding (Resort)

• Synthetic or merino base top + bottom

• Fleece or light synthetic puffy midlayer

• Waterproof/breathable shell (or insulated ski jacket)

• Insulated pants or bibs

• Used gloves or mittens

• Used helmet and goggles if they pass safety checks

You can adjust warmth by swapping fleece for a puffy or adding/removing a midlayer.

Cross-Country Skiing / Touring

You’ll generate a lot of body heat, so the main risk is overheating, then getting chilled.

• Lightweight synthetic or merino base

• Thin fleece or light synthetic midlayer

• Very breathable shell or windshirt

• Light softshell pants or running tights + wind layer

The key here is: you should feel slightly cool at the trailhead. If you’re toasty standing still, you’ll be drenched 10 minutes in.

Snowshoeing / Winter Hiking

• Merino base layer

• Fleece pullover or light puffy

• Softshell or hardshell jacket (depending on forecast)

• Hiking pants + optional long underwear

• Hat, buff, gloves — all easy to find used

Bring an extra midlayer in your pack for snack breaks or sudden weather changes.

Where to Buy Used Winter Layers in and Around Denver 

FERAL — Denver (Tennyson St.)

Your go-to spot for used outdoor clothing in Denver. Nobody in town has a larger selection of used outdoor threads, and FERAL blends it with a great selection of ski accessories as well.

You’ll typically find:

• Base layers (merino + synthetic)

• Fleece and technical midlayers

• Ski and snowboard shells

• Insulated jackets, hats, and gloves

They buy over 200 used items per day, so inventory turns constantly. As a result, every visit is a new treasure hunt. FERAL’s whole philosophy centers on extending the life of quality gear and lowering the price of adventure.

Wilderness Exchange

A long-time Denver shop that takes consignment and sells used gear seasonally.

They often have:

• Used ski jackets and pants

• Fleece and insulated layers

• Gloves and accessories for winter sports

Good place to hunt for midlayers and shells, especially closer to ski season.

Sports Plus (Wash Park)

Primarily known for new and used skis and snowboards, but they typically stock:

• Used and clearance winter jackets

• Snow pants and bibs

• Kids’ winter gear

They’re a solid option when you want to outfit a family on a budget.

Boulder Sports Recycler (Boulder)

If you’re willing to drive:

• One of Colorado’s original used outdoor gear shops

• Consistent selection of winter layers, shells, and fleeces

• Great option for used technical apparel in general

How to Inspect Used Ski Clothing Like a Pro

Base Layers

• Fabric should feel soft, not scratchy or brittle.

• Look for threadbare areas, especially underarms and thighs.

• Check seams for popped stitching.

Midlayers

• Compress the insulation and see if it rebounds.

• Look at elbows, shoulders, and the back where backpacks rub.

• Check for smoke or strong perfume smells if you’re sensitive.

Shells

• Look at all interior seams — tape should be flat and fully stuck down.

• Flex the hood brim and cuffs — no cracking or peeling.

• Look for big scuffs or cuts that go all the way through the fabric.

• Small cosmetic issues are fine. Structural damage is not.

Why Layering With Used Clothing Just Works

When you understand how to layer, you suddenly realize:

• You don’t need “this year’s” anything.

• You can build multiple full outfits for the price of a single new kit.

• You can buy higher-end technical pieces secondhand instead of cheap, poorly made new ones.

• You keep good gear in circulation and out of landfills.

• You support local outdoor shops and community-based gear ecosystems.

 Skiing and winter sports will probably always be a little expensive, but staying warm doesn’t have to break the bank.