Originally Posted by MichaelW

Im a different size with every brand. Ive built my winter clothing system up over many years, you have to experiment a bit to find what works for you.
My winter system is a merino T-shirt baselayer (Ive used synthetic for many years but merino are just better), a softshell style jacket and midlayers according to the temp. I dont find synthetic midlayers to be any better than woollen jumpers. I usually carry some spare insulation for breakdowns and extra cold days, usually a sleeveless fleece jacket that was pretty cheap.
I used to use gortex hardshell but its too clammy for dry days. A simple dense-weave windproof is more effective.

A vital part of my system is hand/foot/neck protection. Two layers of woollen socks with sealskins for wet days, a fleece or wool neck buff/headover thing. I havent found a good solution for gloves in many years of winter riding. Im going with some fleece windstopper ones this season. Waterproof gloves just dont seem to work well for me.