The role of a midlayer

Johanna from the Houdini Design Team explains the purpose of a mid-layer

Layering is the cornerstone of outdoor comfort. Base layers keep you dry, shell layers protect you from the elements — but the midlayer is where the magic happens. This is the piece that traps warmth, breathes when you’re active, and adapts to shifting conditions. At Houdini, we’ve spent decades refining our Power Stretch® series to create midlayers that perform across seasons. Whether you’re ski touring in January, climbing granite in May, or hiking under late summer skies, the right midlayer makes all the difference.

 

Q: What’s the role of a midlayer in the layering system?

A: The midlayer is essentially your body’s thermostat. It adds insulation when temperatures drop, but it also needs to manage moisture and let excess heat escape. It’s the bridge between the base and shell layers — a balance of warmth, breathability, and freedom of movement.

 

Q: What makes the Power Stretch® series unique?

A: It’s a combination of the material and the design philosophy. We use Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro because it offers an unmatched blend of durability, stretch, and comfort. Then we cut and shape each garment for complete freedom of movement, whether you’re climbing, skiing, or just wearing it around camp.

 

Q: How do you design for versatility?

A: We think about the full lifecycle of the garment — from the mountain to the city. We keep silhouettes timeless, avoid unnecessary details, and focus on fit and function. That’s why you’ll see the same piece being used for ski touring, bike commuting, or even as an everyday hoodie.

 

Q: Any advice for someone choosing their first midlayer?

A: Look for one that fits your activities and climate, but also your life. If it’s comfortable enough for a day at home and technical enough for a winter ascent, you’ll get more use out of it. Longevity is a core part of sustainability.

 

 

The Material: Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro

When we started working with Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro, we knew it was something special. This advanced knit fabric features a smooth, abrasion-resistant face and a soft, moisture-wicking inner surface.

The 4-way stretch ensures complete freedom of movement, while its durability keeps it performing for years of hard use. It’s the rare material that’s as comfortable against bare skin as it is layered under a shell in a snowstorm. And like all fabrics we work with, it meets our high standards for quality, performance, and longevity.

 

The Icon: Power Houdi

The Power Houdi has been in our collection for over two decades — and for good reason. Designed as a true do-it-all midlayer, it delivers reliable warmth, exceptional breathability, and effortless comfort.

Beloved by skiers, climbers, and everyday adventurers alike, the Power Houdi’s timeless design means it looks as good in the mountains as it does in the city. Built from Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro, it’s resistant to wear and tear, retains its shape, and offers the kind of stretch that moves with you, not against you.

It’s more than a hoodie — it’s a trusted companion for countless adventures, and a reminder that the best gear is the gear you use for everything.