Autumn in New Zealand is one of the best times to get outside, crisp mornings, golden landscapes, and fewer crowds. But with the season’s unpredictable weather, mastering the art of layering is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable on your adventures. Whether you're hiking Roys Peak, biking Sticky Forest, or simply enjoying a lakeside walk in Wānaka, here’s how to layer like a pro using gear available at Racers Edge.
1. Base Layer – Your Next-to-Skin Foundation
The base layer's job is to regulate your body temperature and wick moisture away from your skin. In autumn, you’ll want something warm, breathable, and quick-drying.
Try this:
- Mons Royale Yotei Merino Classic LS – Made from merino wool right here in New Zealand, this layer offers natural warmth, breathability, and odour resistance. Perfect for long days on the trails or multi-day missions.
- Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crew – Another merino legend, ideal for those who want soft, itch-free comfort with high performance.
Tip: Avoid cotton, once wet, it stays wet and will chill you fast.
2. Mid Layer – Your Insulation Zone
The mid layer traps heat to keep you warm but should still allow moisture to escape. You can adjust this depending on your activity level and the weather.
Try this:
- Fjallraven Vardag Sweater – Technical, and stylish. Great for walks up Mount Iron or a coffee at Kai.
- 2XU Ignition Hyper-Haptic 1/4 Zip – Lightweight yet warm, this fleece layer gives you the flexibility to move while still locking in the heat.
Tip: If you’re active (like biking or hiking uphill), consider a lighter mid layer or stash it in your pack until you stop.
3. Outer Layer – Your Weather Shield
The final layer protects you from wind, rain, and sometimes snow (yes, even in autumn!). A good shell is breathable and waterproof or water-resistant.
Try this:
- The North Face Antora Rain Jacket – A versatile, eco-friendly shell with waterproof DryVent™ tech. Great for daily use or stormy missions.
- Icebreaker 1360 Merinoloft Vest / Jacket – Combining the natural warmth of merino wool with lightweight, breathable insulation, perfect for layering in unpredictable autumn weather
Tip: If the weather looks fine, stash your shell in your pack anyway, NZ weather turns fast.
Final Thoughts
Layering isn’t about piling on clothes, it’s about choosing the right pieces for your activity and conditions. The beauty of layering is that you can adapt throughout the day: peel off your mid layer when you're working hard, or throw your outer layer on when a sudden southerly rolls in.
At Racers Edge, our team lives for outdoor adventures and knows how quickly the weather can change here. Drop in for expert advice or shop our full layering range in-store or online. Because with the right layers, autumn in Aotearoa is yours to explore, rain, shine, or somewhere in between.
