What to Look for in Shoulder-Season Gear

Late summer and early fall bring cooler mornings, surprise storms, and big swings in temperature, so your gear needs to keep up. Prioritize breathable layers that wick moisture but still trap warmth when the wind picks up. Look for flexible midlayers like grid fleece or stretch-woven pants that move with you and work just as well under a shell as they do solo. And don’t underestimate the value of lightweight water resistance, even a quick drizzle can chill you fast when temps dip. The goal? Stay dry, stay warm, and stay comfortable from sunup to sundown.

You don’t need a closet full of new gear to get layering right. Here’s how to build a reliable kit using smart, budget-friendly picks, many of which you’ll find in our clearance section.

✅ Choose multi-use pieces

Grab that fleece that looks great on the trail and works in town. Or a pair of shorts that move with you while biking and still look pulled together at lunch.

✅ Look for convertible features

Roll-up pant legs, zip-off sleeves, and adjustable hoods help you adapt to changing temps without overpacking.

✅ Focus on quality materials

Clearance gear can still be top-notch. Look for ripstop fabrics, breathable membranes, and reinforced seams that’ll last beyond one season.

✅ Mix and match 

Pair a discounted base layer with a midweight fleece and a solid shell to cover most conditions. You don’t need to match brands, just make sure everything layers comfortably.

✅ Size with layering in mind

Try gear on (or double-check the size chart) to make sure your shell fits over your midlayer without feeling tight or restricting movement.

How to Layer for Shoulder-Season Adventures

The classic three-layer system: base, mid, and shell, helps you stay dry, warm, and protected no matter what the day brings. Here’s how to build a layering kit that keeps up with you, whether you’re hiking, biking, or walking the dog at sunrise.

1. Base Layer: Stay Dry, Start Strong

Your base layer pulls moisture away from your body so you don’t get clammy once the breeze kicks up.

• Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Short Sleeve Tee – Women’s
• Mountain Hardwear Canyon™ Long Sleeve Shirt – Men’s

2. Midlayer: Add Warmth Without Bulk

Trap heat without overheating. Look for fleece hoodies or cozy long sleeves that pack easily.

• Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoodie – Men’s
• Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long-Sleeve Hoodie – Women’s
• The North Face Glacier 1/4 Zip Fleece – Teens

3. Shell Layer: Block the Wind and Stay Dry

Pack a lightweight shell, even on clear days. Mountain weather moves fast. 

🔎 Need ideas for your next outing? Don’t miss our roundup: Mountain Town Must-Haves for Summer 2025

Shop Smart for Shoulder-Season Layers

• Choose multi-use pieces: The Roark Crossroads Organic Cotton Flannel is made from 100% organic cotton for everyday comfort and classic road-trip style. Brushed for softness and built with a timeless fit, it’s your go-anywhere, do-anything layer for cooler days and campfire nights.
• Convertible features: Lightweight, breathable, and luxuriously soft, the KÜHL Freeflex™ Roll-Up Pants are built to move with you from trails to travel days. These moisture-wicking pants feature built-in stretch and rebound that keep their shape wear after wear. 
• Everyday performance: Crafted with tough-yet-soft DURALUX™ fabric, the Kuhl Renegade™ Shorts are built for the trail, the campsite, and everything in between. The Renegade™ delivers quick-drying performance, UPF 50+ sun protection, and abrasion resistance, all with the comfort of a natural stretch and a micro-chamois-lined waistband. From trailhead starts to town runs, these lightweight Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda Shorts strike the balance between comfort and performance.
• Trail-to-town versatility: Equal parts trail performer and travel staple, the Mountain Hardwear AP Active Pants deliver stretch, durability, and clean style in one go-anywhere package. Made from a tough yet flexible nylon blend, these pants move with you whether you’re logging miles in the backcountry or strolling through town. 

Heads up: Because these are clearance deals, some items may sell out quickly or have limited sizes. If something you love is out of stock, check our full clearance collection for similar gear and fresh markdowns.

Coolers and Hydration Packs Built for Adventure

Whether you’re biking to a hidden overlook or planning an alpine picnic, these essentials keep your food fresh and your hydration on point:

• Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Cooler Tote: This leakproof, ultra-light tote keeps contents cool for up to 36 hours. Great for car camping, patio hangs, or summit lunches. 
• Dakine Session 8L Hydration Backpack: Lightweight and streamlined, this pack holds water, layers, and snacks without weighing you down.

Trail-Tested Accessories to Pack, Pedal, or Play

Sometimes the right accessories make all the difference. These versatile packs and bags are made for long days, short rides, and everything in between:

• Cotopaxi Trozo 8L Shoulder Bag: With a climbing-rope strap and bold design, this daily carry bag is as fun as it is functional. 
• Osprey Tempest 22 Pack – Women’s: A lightweight pack that hugs close and moves with you, built for fast-paced adventures. 
• Osprey Savu 5 Lightweight Mountain Bike Pack – Women’s: Minimalist hydration meets smart storage. Ideal for gravel rides, mountain laps, and lightweight missions.

🚲 Planning to hit the trails? Don’t miss our guide to Where to Mountain Bike in Colorado (And What to Wear While You Ride) for ride-ready outfit ideas and local trail inspiration.