When packing your body layers, we use the terms base layer, light, mid-weight, heavy-weight, and shell layers. These are common terms used in the outdoor gear industry. There are many ways to layer appropriately for a variety of weather conditions. Below is what we recommend.
The base layer goes against your skin and is a thin material. You will hike in only this layer on hot days, so long sleeves can provide sun protection. You can wear short sleeves if you prefer.
The mid-weight layer is a little thicker material and goes over the base layer, providing just a little insulation during mild cold hiking days.
The heavy fleece or light puffy jacket is a thick, fluffy material that traps air for insulation. It is good for a really cold, stormy hiking day and should fit on top of your base layer and mid-weight layer.
The heavy-weight puffy jacket is your warmest, thickest, best layer. It is what we toss on when the weather is very cold, and we need to stop moving for a long break or if we experience and emergency of some kind. You may also use this layer in the evening when you need to step away from the wood-burning stoves that heat our tea house accommodations.
The shell rain layer provides both protection from the wind and rain. If it is raining and hot it may directly go over you base layer. If it is rainy or snowy and cold it may go over all the warm layers you choose to warm to stay both warm and dry.
As always, we are here to answer all your questions. And your local outdoor gear store will also be familiar with these terms.