Mid Layer

Depending on the weather conditions and activity level, a midlayer can be used in different ways. On dry days, it is often worn as the outer layer, while in rain or strong winds it performs at its best as an insulating layer underneath a sailing jacket. This keeps the clothing system flexible and allows it to be adapted to changing conditions on the water at any time.

Unlike a waterproof sailing jacket, a midlayer is designed primarily for thermal insulation rather than weather protection. At the same time, it is significantly more breathable than many insulated winter jackets, helping to maintain a comfortable body climate even during physical activity. This makes it suitable not only for sailors but also for a wide range of outdoor activities and for time spent at the yacht club or marina.

Marinepool offers a variety of midlayers for different requirements. Depending on the intended use, temperature, and personal preference, different materials and constructions are available. These include classic fleece styles, functional hoodies, technical midlayers, softshell jackets and vests, as well as midlayers made from merino wool. Each option serves a specific purpose within the layering system.

A good example of a versatile technical midlayer is the MP Pre Tec Midlayer Jacket. It combines a modern design with functional properties and is suitable both as an insulating layer underneath a sailing jacket and as a standalone jacket in dry conditions. This makes it a reliable companion not only on the water but also at the marina, while travelling, or during other outdoor activities.

For an optimally functioning clothing system, it is recommended to combine the midlayer with other Marinepool products. A functional baselayer reliably transports moisture away from the skin, while a waterproof sailing jacket and sailing trousers protect against wind, rain, and spray. Sailing shoes provide secure grip on board, sailing gloves improve grip while working on deck, and a life jacket increases safety on the water. Bags and accessories complete the equipment and make the midlayer a versatile part of every sailing wardrobe.

The right midlayer always depends on the specific conditions. Those who primarily need additional warmth often choose fleece. Softshell jackets are particularly suitable for changeable conditions with wind and light rain. Technical midlayers combine high functionality with a sporty design and can be used in many different ways, while merino jackets stand out for their temperature-regulating properties and natural comfort. The best option ultimately depends on the intended use and personal requirements.

Not every midlayer serves the same purpose. Depending on the weather conditions, activity level, and personal preference for warmth, different materials and constructions are the better choice. Marinepool offers a range of midlayers, each with its own advantages and designed to integrate seamlessly into the 3-layer clothing system.

Depending on the model, different insulation materials are used, including synthetic insulation such as PrimaLoft®. These materials retain warmth even when damp while remaining highly breathable. This helps maintain effective insulation, even in changing weather conditions.

Softshell jackets and vests are the ideal choice for dry to changeable weather conditions. They provide reliable protection against wind and light moisture while offering excellent freedom of movement. Compared with a waterproof sailing jacket, they are more breathable and more comfortable to wear when full weather protection is not required.

Softshell vests are especially popular with active sailors, as they keep the core warm while allowing unrestricted movement of the arms and shoulders. Both softshell jackets and vests can also be worn comfortably beneath a waterproof outer shell when temperatures begin to drop.

Technical midlayers combine advanced materials with sporty functionality and are designed for active use on and around the water. They offer a balanced combination of thermal insulation, breathability, and freedom of movement, making them suitable both as a midlayer and as a lightweight outer jacket.

With the MP Pre Tec Midlayer Jacket, Marinepool offers a versatile technical midlayer for both women and men. Its functional fabric provides outstanding comfort in a wide range of weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for sailing, outdoor activities, and everyday wear at the yacht club or marina.

Merino jackets make use of the natural performance of merino wool. The material naturally regulates body temperature, provides warmth in cooler conditions, and remains comfortable against the skin even during extended wear. Merino wool is also naturally odor-resistant, making it an excellent choice for multi-day sailing trips and travel.

Worn as a midlayer, a merino jacket adds a natural insulating layer to the clothing system while delivering exceptional comfort—both on the water and in everyday life.

The 3-layer principle is the foundation of functional clothing for sailing and many other outdoor activities. It ensures that moisture is efficiently transported away from the body, body heat is retained, and reliable protection against wind and water is maintained.

• Worn directly against the skin

• Reliably wicks moisture away from the body

• Keeps the body dry and ensures lasting comfort

• Retains body heat

• Provides insulation against the cold

• Includes fleece jackets, technical midlayers, merino jackets, and softshell jackets or vests, depending on the weather conditions and the level of warmth required.

• Protects against rain, wind, and spray

• Consists of waterproof and breathable sailing jackets and sailing trousers

• Keeps the underlying layers dry while providing reliable weather protection

By combining all three layers, you create a flexible clothing system that can be adapted to a wide range of weather conditions. Depending on the temperature and activity level, individual layers can be added or removed to maintain the ideal balance of warmth, breathability, and weather protection at all times.

Since 1991, Marinepool has been developing functional sailing apparel based on the principle of “From Sailors for Sailors.” The brand was founded by active sailors and continues to work closely with sailing clubs, national teams, competitive sailing associations, and sea rescue organizations. The practical experience gained through these partnerships flows directly into product development – from waterproof sailing jackets to functional midlayers for a wide range of weather conditions.

Marinepool has been and continues to be a partner of numerous international regattas, sailing events, and top-level teams. These include the Austrian Sailing Federation, the German Sailing League, and the Bayerischer Yacht-Club. The products are tested under real-world conditions and continuously refined to ensure they meet the demanding requirements on the water at all times.

Marinepool benefits particularly in the field of offshore sailing from its collaboration with renowned ocean sailors such as Vendée Globe skipper Fabrice Amedeo. During his solo passages lasting several months across the world’s largest oceans, he relies on Marinepool sailing apparel. The insights gained from these experiences are incorporated into the development of functional midlayers that provide reliable insulation, high wearing comfort, and the ideal complement to the layering system.

Marinepool combines maritime heritage with modern technology. Whether fleece, hoodies, softshell jackets, or technical midlayers, every model is designed to deliver the ideal balance of thermal insulation, breathability, and freedom of movement. High-quality materials, ergonomic fits, and functional details ensure that our midlayers can be worn either as standalone jackets or as insulating layers beneath a sailing jacket. The result is versatile apparel for sailing trips, outdoor adventures, and everyday life at the yacht club. Close collaboration with professional sailors, international sailing teams, and watersports associations ensures that every collection is tested under real-world conditions and continuously refined.

As a company with deep roots in watersports, protecting the waters we sail on is an important part of our product development. That is why Marinepool uses PFC-free water-repellent treatments on many products and is increasingly replacing PVC-containing materials.

For sailors, this means high-quality apparel and equipment that meet the demands of life on the water while supporting a more responsible approach to protecting marine environments. In this way, Marinepool combines technical performance, quality, and responsibility for the waters that define our sport.

A midlayer is the second layer of the 3-layer clothing system, worn between the base layer and the protective outer shell. Its main purpose is to retain body heat while allowing moisture to pass through to the outer layers. This helps maintain a comfortable body climate, even in changing weather conditions.

A midlayer is recommended whenever a base layer alone does not provide enough warmth. It is especially useful while sailing, on cool mornings, during longer passages, or in changing spring and autumn conditions, where it adds valuable insulation and comfort. Depending on the weather, a midlayer can also be worn on its own as an outer layer.

The right midlayer depends on the weather conditions and your intended activity. Fleece is an excellent choice for cool to cold temperatures, offering outstanding insulation and warmth. Softshell jackets and vests are ideal for dry or changeable weather, providing protection from wind and light moisture while maintaining excellent freedom of movement. Technical midlayers combine insulation with high breathability, making them perfect for active sailing and outdoor pursuits. Merino jackets, on the other hand, stand out on longer trips thanks to their natural temperature regulation and odor-resistant properties.

A functional base layer is the ideal garment to wear underneath a midlayer. It wicks moisture away from the skin and forms the foundation of an effective layering system. Combined with a midlayer and a waterproof sailing jacket, it creates a balanced clothing system that provides comfort, insulation, and weather protection in a wide range of conditions.

A high-quality fleece or other midlayer is an essential part of functional sailing apparel. Whether you choose a hoodie, softshell jacket, technical midlayer, or merino jacket, each style serves a specific purpose within the layering system, providing the ideal balance of thermal insulation, breathability, and freedom of movement. Combined with a functional base layer and a waterproof sailing jacket, a midlayer creates a versatile clothing system for sailing trips, outdoor activities, and everyday life at the yacht club. For more than 35 years, Marinepool has been developing functional watersports apparel that is tested under real-world conditions to meet the highest standards of quality, comfort, and performance.

Last updated: June 2026