Explore the Icelandic art of layering
How to dress for Iceland
The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and changes without warning, so if you are thinking about making the trip over, we have a few ideas of what to wear. You can experience sun, rain and hail, all on the same day.
This is never mentioned too often, if you are coming to Iceland dress in layers! Layering your clothing is the best way to maximize your comfort while exploring outdoors. The beauty of this simple concept is that it allows you to make quick adjustments (peeling off or adding layers) based on your activity level and sudden changes in weather conditions.
So let’s have a look at the different types of layers:
Outer-layer
During this season we definitely recommend wearing a Parka or a good jacket. Parkas are generally a longer fitting coat and in most cases, due to their length, they offer more warmth. With the longer length, it covers more of your body and can trap more heat easily. Down jackets are good for active use, layering, travel, when you want insulation without bulk or excessive length.
If it is not freezing cold, a good shell can also be a suitable option. The shell needs to be able to breathe as well, allowing moisture to leave the body. You can choose from so-called soft shells that are more flexible but only water-resistant (not proof), or hard shells that are completely waterproof but not as flexible and do not breathe as properly.
Gore-Tex® Pro™ and Neo Shell® fabrics are durable shell materials that ensure you stay dry, and therefore warm, in almost any kind of weather.
- Men
- Women
Mid-layer
The mid layer is the primary insulating layer and works by trapping warm air that your body generates. You can choose wool, down, fleece, or high-tech synthetics like PrimaLoft. Light wool or fleece is recommended for activity in cold weather but heavier fleece, down, or PrimaLoft jackets are ideal for activity in freezing conditions.
Waterproof pants
Pack waterproof pants to keep your legs warm and dry. Avoid jeans for activites outdoors and remember that packing for Iceland is all about comfort and readiness.
- Men
- Women
Base-layer
This is probably one of the most important layers. 100% Merino wool is preferable and is the best insulator. The wool breaths easily and allows you to sweat through it by breathing into the middle layer.
The number one rule of layering is; don’t wear cottonnearthe skin, you’ll be soaked quickly, leaving you overcooled when you stop to rest after being active.
Accessories
Windproof gloves or mittens
The wind in Iceland can be bitingly cold, even if it’s not particularly cold outside, the windchill can make it feel like it is well below freezing. So you will want a nice pair of warm, windproof gloves or mittens.
Good hat
A good hat is essential in cold windy conditions, so don’t forget it!
Swimwear and towel
This is something many travellers forget to bring to Iceland understandably, it’s not the first thing that pops into your mind when packing for a trip to the subarctic. However, Iceland is rich in geothermal water so running around in swimwear is a big part of the local culture. We have thermal swimming pools in every neighborhood in Reykjavík. You will also find them in almost every small town in the countryside, and the entrance fee is fairly reasonable (4-7 euros).
You will need swimwear if you are planning on visiting the Blue Lagoon, Laugarvatn Fontana or one of the many secret hot springs in the nature! Also a towel will come in handy so you don’t cool down too quickly after coming up from a natural spring in the middle of nowhere.
