Build a layering system that works as hard as you do
The warmest way to dress for cold work isn't one heavy coat. It's layers you can add or shed as the day changes. These eight Kings Camo pieces cover every layer, from a 400 GSM fleece mid-layer to a wind-blocking soft shell and 18-inch waterproof leg gaiters.
Kings Camo designs for hunters, so the fabrics are quiet, stretchy and treated to resist odor. Those same traits suit feeding animals at dawn, splitting wood, setting up an RV site in shoulder season, or staying comfortable at home if the power goes out on a cold night.
- Our quick picks
- How the layers work together
- All 8 at a glance
- What each piece does best
- What to look for in cold-weather layers
- Answers to common questions
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- Layer, don't bulk up A fleece (layer 2), insulation (layer 3) and a shell (layer 4) let you adjust warmth without changing your whole outfit.
- Stay dry to stay warm Several picks carry a PFC-free DWR finish that sheds light rain and snow.
- Cover the gaps 18-inch waterproof gaiters keep wet grass, mud and snow out of your boots.
- Women's cuts included Three picks are cut for women: the Wind-Defender Jacket, Transition Vest and Hunter Pant 2.0.
Our quick picks
How the layers work together
Kings Camo numbers its layers, which makes building a system simple:
- Layer 1, base: sits next to your skin and moves sweat away.
- Layer 2, fleece: traps warmth. The Highland Full-Zip Fleece and XKG Pinnacle Jacket fit here.
- Layer 3, insulation: does the heavy lifting on cold, still days. The Women’s XKG Transition Vest uses 100 grams of PrimaLoft Gold Cross Core.
- Layer 4, shell: blocks wind and light rain. The XKG Tracker Soft Shell is built for this spot.
Start with fewer layers than you think you need. You warm up fast once you’re moving, and sweat-damp clothes chill you later.
All 8 at a glance
What each piece does best
Layer 2 fleece
A knit-bonded fleece with nylon Taslan overlays at the wear points and a PFC-free DWR finish. Wear it alone on cool mornings, then under a shell when the weather turns.
Stretch mid-layer
A 400 GSM fleece body with lighter 320 GSM sleeves, a fitted hood and thumbholes. Flatlocked seams cut down on rubbing under a pack or a shell.
Layer 4 shell
A packable 2-layer soft shell with a Windstorm membrane that blocks wind and handles light rain. Velcro cuffs and an adjustable hood seal out drafts.
Women’s fleece jacket
Soft, quiet, quick-dry fleece with a weatherproof, windproof build, a zip-off hood and a drawstring waist. It works as an outer jacket on dry days or a warm layer under a shell.
Layer 3 insulation
100 grams of PrimaLoft Gold Cross Core insulation in a micro-ripstop shell with a DWR finish. A vest keeps your core warm while leaving your arms free for chores.
Light soft shell vest
A 12.5 oz two-layer soft shell vest with stretch fabric and a mesh lining. Plain charcoal, so it works for town errands as well as the woodpile.
Keeps boots dry
18-inch waterproof gaiters with a zipper and Velcro storm flap, a boot-lace tab and an adjustable stirrup strap. They keep wet grass, mud and snow out of your boots.
Women’s work pant
A quick-dry 97% polyester, 3% spandex pant with articulated knees and six pockets, including two cargo pockets. Kings Camo says it wears as easily as cotton.
See the layering system explained
This independent YouTube overview walks through how Kings Camo’s XKG layers fit together.
What to look for in cold-weather layers
Each layer has to fit over the one beneath it.
Dry layers hold warmth; wet ones lose it fast.
Active work makes heat and sweat.
Small features add up over a long day.
Do I have to wear camo?
No. Many pieces come in several patterns, and the Pinnacle Jacket and Trail Vest picked here are plain charcoal. Choose whatever suits your chores and your town errands.
What does DWR mean?
DWR stands for durable water repellent, a finish that makes light rain and snow bead up and roll off. It isn’t fully waterproof, and it wears down with washing over time.
How do I pick sizes for layering?
Size your fleece to your normal fit, then make sure the shell or vest goes on over it comfortably. Check the Kings Camo size chart on each product page; the size in our link is only a starting point, so pick yours before you check out.
Are there women's versions?
Yes. Three picks here are cut for women, and Kings Camo sells women’s versions of many other pieces.
Will layers help if the power goes out in winter?
Yes. A fleece and an insulated vest keep you comfortable indoors at a lower thermostat setting, and they don’t need power to work.
Start with the piece that fills your biggest gap. For most people that’s a good fleece and a wind-blocking shell. Add the vest and gaiters as the season gets colder.
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