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Chloe snowshoeing in Kosciuszko National Park wearing a bright yellow Fjallraven anorak

Women's Clothing | All

No matter what time of the year it is, or where you are in Australia, every woman needs a wardrobe full of comfortable clothes that can keep up with the chaos of day to day life, and the multitude of conditions you may face in the great outdoors. From high-performance alpine jackets to ultra-comfortable fleece layers, here at Tom's Outdoors, we stock a solid range of women's clothing from leading brands such as Patagonia, Icebreaker, Rab, Fjallraven and more.

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When exploring the Australian outdoors, dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable, warm, and dry in changing Aussie weather conditions. The layering system is built around three essential components, base, mid, and outer layers each with a specific function to manage moisture, provide insulation, and protect against the elements. Choosing the right fabrics and designs for each layer makes all the difference in creating a versatile and reliable setup that adjusts to your activity level and the environment.

MERINO BASE LAYER

The base layer is essential for moisture management, as it’s the layer closest to your skin. Merino wool is an ideal material for this purpose due to its natural moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, and odor-resistant properties. Unlike synthetic materials, Merino wool keeps you comfortable in a wide range of temperatures by helping manage body heat and preventing clamminess. A lightweight Merino (150-200gsm) is typically enough for milder weather, while a mid-weight option (200-260gsm) is preferable for cooler temperatures. This layer should fit snugly to ensure efficient moisture transfer. Additionally, Merino’s softness and low odor retention mean it stays comfortable and fresh over multiple wears, making it versatile for longer trips or multi-day hikes.

MID LAYERS

The mid-layer’s primary job is insulation, and it provides warmth by trapping body heat. There are two types of mid-layers to consider: active mid-layers and static mid-layers.

Active mid-layers are designed for higher-intensity activities like hiking, climbing, or skiing. These mid-layers typically use synthetic fabrics, like fleece, which excel at allowing moisture to escape and heat to dissipate, keeping you comfortable during activity. They often include a bit of stretch, making them easy to move in without restricting motion. Fleece jackets are popular choices, offering lightweight insulation with excellent breathability.

Static mid-layers are ideal for low-activity situations where maximum warmth is needed, such as sitting around a campfire or at a base camp. Options here include down and synthetic-insulated jackets. Down offers an unbeatable warmth-to-weight ratio and is extremely compressible, making it easy to pack. However, it loses its insulation properties if it gets wet, which is why it’s best suited to cold, dry conditions. Many down jackets now come with a water-resistant treatment, which helps protect the feathers but does not make them fully waterproof.

Synthetic-insulated jackets, on the other hand, retain warmth even when damp and are ideal for wet or humid climates. Though not as lightweight or compressible as down, they dry faster and can handle moisture, making them better for unpredictable or damp weather.

SYNTHETIC VS. DOWN

The choice between synthetic and down insulation largely depends on the expected conditions. Down is preferred for very cold and dry environments because of its high warmth-to-weight ratio and packability. It’s also exceptionally durable, holding up well over years of use if kept dry. High-fill power down provides maximum insulation without much weight, making it ideal for activities like alpine climbing or winter camping. However, because down can become cold and heavy when wet, it may not be suitable for damp or rainy conditions unless it’s combined with a waterproof shell.

Synthetic insulation offers a more versatile solution for wet conditions, as it continues to insulate even when wet and is often easier to maintain. It also dries more quickly than down, making it useful in unpredictable weather. While synthetic jackets are typically bulkier and heavier than down, they are generally more affordable and require less special care.

OUTER LAYER

The outer layer, or shell, protects against wind, rain, and snow, while also being breathable enough to let moisture escape. Depending on the expected conditions, you might choose between a waterproof or water-resistant shell. For high-exposure activities, such as mountaineering, a fully waterproof jacket with features like seam taping and Gore-Tex technology will provide the most complete protection. In moderate conditions, a water-resistant shell may be enough, offering some protection against light rain and wind but allowing for better breathability and flexibility.

When selecting an outer layer, consider factors like ventilation zips, adjustable cuffs, and hem drawcords, as these features help regulate body temperature and improve comfort during various activities. In cold or wet weather, a three-layer shell provides the highest level of durability and protection, although it tends to be bulkier and heavier than a two-layer or softshell option.

Each layer serves a unique function and, when chosen thoughtfully, contributes to an adaptable and efficient layering system that meets the demands of various outdoor conditions. Layering properly allows you to adjust to changing weather or activity levels while remaining warm, dry, and comfortable in nature.

NEED HELP CHOOSING A LAYERING SYSTEM? CONTACT US TODAY

If you would appreciate some additional advice. Simply get in touch with our friendly sales team – they’re always up for a chat. You can contact us by calling our Tumut store on (02) 6947 4062 or by email.

Fjallraven Women's Nuuk Parka

Fjallraven
Original price $949.95 - Original price $949.95
Original price
$949.95
$949.95 - $949.95
Current price $949.95

Product Description Fjallraven Women's Nuuk Parka – Warmth and Weather Protection in Style. Stay cozy and shielded from the elements with the...

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Patagonia Women's Tres 3-in-1 Parka

Patagonia
Original price $949.95 - Original price $949.95
Original price
$949.95
$949.95 - $949.95
Current price $949.95

Product Description Its a shell, its a down jacket, its a parka, its the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1! Designed to withstand the wettest and coldest...

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Rab Women's Mythic Ultra Jacket

Rab
Original price $879.95 - Original price $879.95
Original price
$879.95
$879.95 - $879.95
Current price $879.95

Product Description When you need the highest warmth-to-weight ratio, grab yourself a Mythic Ultra. Introducing the ultimate winter companion...

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Fjallraven Women's Greenland Winter Jacket

Fjallraven
Original price $719.95 - Original price $719.95
Original price
$719.95
$719.95 - $719.95
Current price $719.95

Product Description Durable and weather-resistant on the outside, cosy and warm on the inside. The Fjallraven Greenland Winter Jacket feature...

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Patagonia Women's Triolet Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $699.95 - Original price $699.95
Original price
$699.95
$699.95 - $699.95
Current price $699.95

Product Description The Patagonia Women's Triolet Jacket is a pinnacle of technical outerwear designed to meet the demands of serious outdoor...

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Patagonia Women's Swiftcurrent Wading Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $649.95 - Original price $649.95
Original price
$649.95
$649.95 - $649.95
Current price $649.95

Product Description When the weather turns south, turn up in the Patagonia Women's Swiftcurrent Wading Jacket! The Patagonia Women's Swiftcur...

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Rab Women's Electron Pro Jacket

Rab
Original price $639.95 - Original price $639.95
Original price
$639.95
$639.95 - $639.95
Current price $639.95

Product Description An efficient, high-performance technical jacket The Women's Electron Pro Jacket by Rab is an absolute all rounder, offeri...

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Patagonia Women's M10 Storm Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $599.95 - Original price $599.95
Original price
$599.95
$599.95 - $599.95
Current price $599.95

Product Description Light on You, Heavy on Protection – The Patagonia M10 is the ultimate rain jacket. For those who prefer to travel light an...

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Patagonia Unisex Cotton Down Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $529.95 - Original price $529.95
Original price
$529.95
$529.95 - $529.95
Current price $529.95

Product Description An old favourite redesigned with more sustainable materials – The Patagonia Cotton Down Jacket is here to stay! In celebr...

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Patagonia Women's Super Free Alpine Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $899.95
Original price $899.95 - Original price $899.95
Original price $899.95
Current price $495.00
$495.00 - $495.00
Current price $495.00

Product Description Keep the warm in and the cold out, even in the harshest of conditions. The Patagonia Super Free Alpine Jacket is designed...

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Rab Women's Khroma Kinetic Waterproof Jacket

Rab
Original price $759.95
Original price $759.95 - Original price $759.95
Original price $759.95
Current price $449.00
$449.00 - $449.00
Current price $449.00

Product Description Experience ultimate technical performance in waterproof and breathability while in the backcountry. The Rab Women's Khrom...

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Patagonia Women's Insulated Powder Town Pants - Reg

Patagonia
Original price $429.95 - Original price $429.95
Original price
$429.95
$429.95 - $429.95
Current price $429.95

Product Description Conquer the cold in style with Patagonia's Women's Insulated Powder Town Pants. The Patagonia Women's Insulated Powder To...

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Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Insulated Hoody

Patagonia
Original price $399.95 - Original price $399.95
Original price
$399.95
$399.95 - $399.95
Current price $399.95

Product Description The Nano Puff is impervious to a cool day or night, so why not throw on this Hoody when the cold washes over you? The war...

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Patagonia Women's Down With It Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $379.95 - Original price $379.95
Original price
$379.95
$379.95 - $379.95
Current price $379.95

Product Description A fresh take on a winter classic Patagonia has redesigned the Women's Down With It Jacket to be more stylish and sustaina...

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Icebreaker Women's Merino 260 Quantum IV Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie

Icebreaker
Original price $369.99 - Original price $369.99
Original price
$369.99
$369.99 - $369.99
Current price $369.99

Product Description This hoodie has you covered, from the gym, to the slopes, along the trail and everywhere in between. It's technical enough...

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Rab Women's Kinetic 2.0 Waterproof Jacket

Rab
Original price $449.95
Original price $449.95 - Original price $449.95
Original price $449.95
Current price $359.00
$359.00 - $359.00
Current price $359.00

Product Description Designed for ultimate performance and protection against the elements. Looking for a reliable and versatile waterproof ja...

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Patagonia Women's Jackson Glacier Parka

Patagonia
Original price $649.95
Original price $649.95 - Original price $649.95
Original price $649.95
Current price $357.00
$357.00 - $357.00
Current price $357.00

Product Description The warm, down parka you've been waiting for. The Jackson Glacier Parka is Patagonia's premium warm and weather-resistant...

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Fjallraven Women's Abisko HD Trekking Tights

Fjallraven
Original price $354.95 - Original price $354.95
Original price
$354.95
$354.95 - $354.95
Current price $354.95

Product Description The hardwearing trekking tights you can take anywhere.  Explore the rivers, valleys, hills and mountains all while being ...

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Patagonia Women's Insulated Powder Town Jacket

Patagonia
Original price $629.95
Original price $629.95 - Original price $629.95
Original price $629.95
$346.00 - $629.95
$346.00 - $629.95
Current price $346.00

Product Description The last ski jacket you'll ever need. The Patagonia Women's Insulated Powder Town Jacket is the ultimate jacket for warmt...

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Snow Peak Thermal Boa Fleece Jacket

Snow Peak
Original price $419.95
Original price $419.95 - Original price $419.95
Original price $419.95
Current price $339.00
$339.00 - $339.00
Current price $339.00

The warmest, comfiest fleece you'll ever put on. The Snow Peak Thermal Boa Fleece Jacket is a lightweight fleece jacket constructed from breathable...

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Rab Women's Cubit Stretch Down Hoody

Rab
Original price $589.95
Original price $589.95 - Original price $589.95
Original price $589.95
$329.00 - $349.00
$329.00 - $349.00
Current price $329.00

Product Description Experience unmatched comfort and warmth with the Rab Women's Cubit Stretch Down Hoody. The Rab Women's Cubit Stretch Down...

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Rab Women's Deep Cover Parka

Rab
Original price $559.95
Original price $559.95 - Original price $559.95
Original price $559.95
$329.00 - $559.95
$329.00 - $559.95
Current price $329.00

Product Description A highly functional and fashionable down parka for your next winter outing. The Rab Women's Deep Cover Parka is a slim fi...

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Fjallraven Women's Abisko Trekking Tights Pro

Fjallraven
Original price $309.95 - Original price $309.95
Original price
$309.95
$309.95 - $309.95
Current price $309.95

Product Description The durability of pants with the mobility and comfort of tights. The Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights Pro are a durable ...

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Patagonia Women's R1 Thermal Pullover Hoody

Patagonia
Original price $299.95 - Original price $299.95
Original price
$299.95
$299.95 - $299.95
Current price $299.95

  Product Description There's almost nothing left that has yet to be done in an R1. A technical fleece that combines versatility and warmth f...

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