The nights are cold, and the days are well... confused.  Sun, clouds, rain, wind; it's hard to know just what will happen from morning to night. Should you wear a tee-shirt or gumboots? Your grandmother's cowichan sweater or your faithful yellow rain slicker?

Fortunately our fall fashion collection has arrived for all your weather changing needs. The answer to the sunny, wet, windy, and cold season remains tastefully simple: layers. Three layers to be exact: an inner layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer.

The inner layer is worn next to your skin and is used to manage moisture. Synthetic fabrics, silk, and wool all move perspiration away from your skin, saving you from that cold clammy feeling you get after jogging in a cotton tee-shirt. Here at Alberni Outpost we especially favour merino wool for its antibacterial properties (doesn't stink) and its ability to regulate temperature regardless of the conditions.

Your mid layer is your insulating layer. Its purpose is to trap air in pockets next to your body for warmth. Polyester fleeces, (not cotton hoodies) are good mid layers because of their moisture wicking fibres. As you jog, a good mid layer will reinforce the work of the base layer by continuing to draw moisture away from your skin.

Your outer layer should do several things for you. It needs to be waterproof and breathable. It should be windproof. For most west-coast conditions, it's also nice if your jacket is lightweight and packable.

A waterproof breathable garment uses fabric that incorporates microscopic porous technology. 'Waterproof' refers to a barrier that stops water molecules. 'Breathable' refers to the ability of fabric to allow perspiration vapour to pass through the fabric. One way to do this is to use a membrane with pores that allow sweat vapour to escape but are too small to let water droplets in.

Gortex is an example of a waterproof breathable membrane. Gortex membranes remain the industry standard for waterproof breathable windproof jackets.

For those of us with smaller budgets, there are alternate methods of creating waterproof breathable jackets. One way is to use a coating of polyurethane on the inside of the jacket. While polyurethane coated products perform well and are less expensive to produce, membranes remain superior for long-term durability.

Both types of jackets use an exterior Durable Waterproof Repellent to prevent saturation of the exterior fabric. DWR treatments do need to be reapplied from time to time. Nikwax is the leading brand name of wash-in or spray-on DWR treatments to help maintain the performance of your garments.

The simple solution to complex weather patterns, the layering system allows you to be in control and comfortable regardless of the conditions. At Alberni Outpost we offer a wide variety of cuts, colours and materials to keep you comfortable and up to date.  Our snugly, fashionably-cut, performance-based clothes are the finishing touch to your perfect no-matter-what day.

Have fun this fall. Go play outside.