My neck area is also typically my weak link in keeping warm. My system in “reverse order”:
1. A hooded shell or jacket that closes efficiently around the helmet but has plenty of space around the neck, facilitating freedom of movement and room for insulating layers. Numerous brands have jackets that can do this. A test drive in a store is critical. I have two Rush jackets that do this works perfectly on my frame.
2. Beneath that I use a hooded mid-layer with a puffy hood, typically an Atom LT or AR or down. I’m able to arrange the hood to serve as neck insulation, I’ve never actually used the hood to cover my head. The puffiness makes things warm, comfortable and awesome. Puffiness is key.
3. Layers beneath that, typically merino base and/or fleece, zip up around the neck so that their collars cover the neck.
The result for me is freedom of movement, comfort and warmth in cold and/or snowy, wet, windy conditions. Ok…what else can I do now to procrastinate getting on the Stairmaster?