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Best Skiing Baselayers
The best skiing baselayers are usually tight-fitting to ensure that you get the right amount of support and compression. It should be breathable and will make you feel like you are wearing nothing. But, with the numerous brands offered in the market today, finding the best skiing baselayers could be a daunting undertaking.
In this buying guide, we share with you ten of the best skiing baselayers. In the product review section, each of the items comes with its pros and cons to help you find the best match for your style and preference.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
This type is usually a long-sleeved base layer that is worn during cold weather.
Top
There are also short sleeved base layers that are usually utilized during warm to cold setups where heat retention comes second to moisture wicking ability of the layer.
Bottoms
There are a couple of styles that are usually used in bottoms. They are the widely known ¾ leg and the traditional full leg. The ¾ leg type is usually used along with snowboard or ski boots.
One-Piece
This type is the favorite baselayers protection among many skiers. This is because this type seals out drafts and protects almost all parts of the body. There are several types that come with a hood to prevent 40 percent of the body heat from escaping through the head.
While there are different types of skiing baselayers, all of these are created to work alone or along with other layers. If you want to control your body’s temperature, it is important that you learn how to add and remove layers.
Materials
One crucial factor that you should consider in choosing the best skiing baselayers is the type of its material component.
Nowadays, manufacturers use different types of fibers to make a base layer. The most popular are polyester and wool. It is important to note that various types of materials function in multiple ways to maximize the temperature of the body, especially if exposed to a cold environment. There are also several other manufacturers that use synthetic fibers.
Wool
The most popular type is merino wool. It is a natural fiber loaded with numerous advantages. It has a natural odor controlling ability that allows you to suit up against the layers without smelling awful.
This is very helpful, especially if you are in an area where there is limited to zero access to a washing machine. This fiber functions as a straw that sucks the moisture away from the skin and lets it evaporate. There are also some drawbacks using this type of fabric. This includes its high price and its level of durability, which could not come close to synthetic fibers.
Polyester
Another standard fiber used in most outdoor apparel is polyester. This is a human-made synthetic, capable of offering a higher wicking level. This ability is often associated with the kind of coating added to the fabric as well as the process of creating polyester.
Most manufacturers combine polyester with spandex for added stretch and form-fitting and nylon for more strength. This type of synthetic fabric is less expensive to produce. However, one of the significant downsides of this fabric is that it is more likely to build up body odor rapidly.
Silk
Silk is a little more popular compared to the merino wool but could be a great choice too when you are looking for a base layer in cold settings. It provides the much-needed warmth in addition to its impressive wicking capabilities and much thinner weight.
Nowadays, manufacturers treat silk to enhance its wicking ability and to reduce odor. The downside of this fabric is that it is fragile and needs hand washing.
Weight
Another crucial factor that you should consider when choosing the best skiing baselayers is weight. This factor has a significant impact on the level of warmth that the layer produces.
It is important to note that the heavier the base layer, the more heat it could provide. There are three significant baselayer weights. They are the following:
Lightweight
This is a thin layer that you put on first. It is crucial that it is well-fitted and comfortable to the wearer to achieve efficient moisture management. If you plan to wear it on its own, use it on mild to cool settings with high activity levels.
Midweight
This type of layer could be used as a first or second layer warmer on top of the next-to-skin layer. This is to offer a blend of moisture wicking as well as insulation. If worn alone, it is perfect for mildly cold to cold environments with a level of activity ranging from low to medium. To maximize warmth, combine this with a lightweight underlayer or with a heavyweight layer above it.
Heavyweight
This type is usually worn on top of a lightweight layer and is created to provide an extra layer of insulation. Unlike the thin kind, it is generally worn a little loose. Most of the time, it is mistaken as mid layers because of its insulation capabilities as well as its thickness level. It is perfect for cold settings with any degree of activities.
Comfort
The warmth is the main reason why you would like to wear baselayers in the first place.
Earlier, we discussed the types of fabric as well as the weight for the base layer. In determining the level of warmth, it is crucial that you balance it with the weather report of the day if you plan to ski or hit the mountains.
For instance, if you want to ski on the run in between breaks, you must wear a more massive type of layer. But, if in case you want a full-throttle ski all day, it would be ideal if you use a lightweight coat.
Breathability
Breathability is another essential factor that you should consider when looking for the best skiing baselayers.
Skiing baselayers have excellent breathability as long as they are made of wool or polyester. If you are using skiing gear, choose the ones with zips on the inner leg and armpits. These enable optimum airflow, when necessary, allow the air to evaporate, and cool the moisture, which is actively regulated by the base layer. It will help keep you comfortable during your entire skiing activity.
Speed
The drying speed of the layers will be mostly dependent on the type of fabric that it is made of.
Drying speed is essential because you do not want to get soaked in cold moisture that could weaken the immune system of your body and could lead to health issues.
In terms of fabric, polyester dries a little faster compared to other materials. Cotton is the worst in terms of drying speed. If you want to achieve maximum drying speed, chose the black colored baselayers. This color tends to absorb heat energy from sunlight faster. It results in faster drying times compared to others.
Durability
The durability of the base layer is dependent on the level of use and care as well as on the type of material or fabric it is made of.
The widely used Merino wool, despite its moisture wicking capability, is not durable as compared to synthetics. Polyester is a bit durable, but, on its own, it is also a delicate fabric. Given these facts, it is crucial that you use nylon blend apparels.
Nylon is a durable material and works well with performance apparels and gears aside from adding strength. Remember, it is vital to choose a permanent item as this will last longer and will not be a waste of money. Never compromise on the price of the article, if you want a longer lasting product.
Best Skiing Baselayers
1. SmartWool NTS Mid 250
This could be the ideal choice if you are looking for a product that comes with a 50 + UPF rating.
Read moreFeatures
It features interlock knitting where the panels in the shoulder part remove the seams on the top shoulder portion. It has a flatlock seam construction specially made to eliminate chafing. It is easy to clean and is washing machine friendly. It is a zip top version that enables more ventilation. It is made of merino wool that is soft to the skin. It efficiently wicks moisture from the skin and even fights odor caused by sweat. It is a multipurpose product that you can use not only when you are skiing but also on other activities. It includes running, biking, mountaineering, and hiking.
Materials
This item is made from 100 percent Merino wool. This simply means that it has excellent wicking ability to keep the moisture and sweat away from your skin.
Type
It is a top slim-fit kind of base layer that comes with a 10 -inches zipper at the front. It also comes with a logo slider that is semi-locking.
Size
It has an overall product dimension of 13 –inches x 10 -inches x 2 –inches.
Weight
This model weighs 15.7 –ounces.
Insulation
It is the top pick among many skiers and other outdoor activity enthusiasts because it does not only provide comfort but also the right amount of ventilation and insulation that they need when in a cold environment.
2. Under Armour EVO ColdGear
This could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a product that was designed with the interest of the user in mind.
Read moreFeatures
This product features a double layer fabric that keeps the moisture away from the skin. It is also capable of heat retention so you are warm while you do activities in a cold environment. It has grips made of silicone to prevent the hem from rising.
As a result, you get convenience and comfort wearing this model. It is also equipped with an anti-odor system that prevents it from awful. Moreover, the lightweight material embraces the line of the body to lessen the cold air and detains the heat.
Materials
It is made from a blend of 13 percent elastane and 87 percent Polyester so in terms of durability, this model is excellent. The elastane gives it a stretchy feature while the polyester wicks away the moisture and the perspiration.
Type
This model is a top long sleeve type of a base layer.
Size
It has an overall product dimension of 9 -inches x 1 – inch x 6 –inches.
Weight
This product has an item weight of 6.1 -ounces and a boxed item weight of 2 –pounds.
Insulation
Aside from being stretchy, this model embraces the line of the body to ensure that there is proper compression to retain the heat and keeps the cold airway from the body.
3. ColdPruf Platinum
This could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a product that offers a dual layer and a precise fit.
Read moreFeatures
It features tight-fitting baselayers that offer the right amount of compression and support. This also means that you do not have to worry about the baselayers getting ripped off from your body when you remove other layers. It has flat seas to ensure that you wear it comfortably. It utilizes Thermachoice technology that is perfect for very cold to a freezing environment with medium to high activity levels. This model uses SILVADURIntelligent Freshness that eliminates the odor away from the baselayer.
Materials
It is made of 70 percent Polyester and 30 percent Merino Wool. The outer part and the inner part of this item is made from various fabric blend to ensure that the wearer is protected from cold while making him feel comfortable at all times.
Type
This is available in top type and bottom type of baselayers. The tops tightly fit the body while the bottom model is equipped with an elastic bandage to sit on the wearer’s midsection securely.
Size
It is available in various sizes ranging from small which measures between 34 and 36 –inches to 3XL which measures between 54 and 56 –inches.
Weight
It has an overall item weight of 8.8 –ounces.
Insulation
This model offers dual layer to ensure comfort and support while retaining the right amount of heat that the body requires while doing different types of activities in a cold environment.
4. Helly Hansen HH Dry Stripe
This could be a superior choice if you are looking for a product that does not only offers the right amount of warmth but also ensures that those with sensitive skin can wear it.
Read moreFeatures
It features a next to skin baselayer with Lifastay Dray. This makes sure that your body is kept dry regardless of your activity level. It is safe especially to those with sensitive skin as it is not itchy and is made of fabric that is neutral to allergy. It has flatlock seam so that the wearer can comfortably wear it.
This is a multifunctional and multipurpose model that you can wear in various activities. Its three-layer design ensures that you are comfortable, especially when doing activities that are highly aerobic. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Materials
This model is made of allergy neutral, Polypropylene fabric that is safe especially to those with sensitive skin. It is also lightweight and makes you feel like you are not wearing any skiing baselayers.
Type
It is a top long-sleeve type of base layer that is made for different kinds of occasions and sports.
Size
It has a total product dimension of 7 –inches x 7 -inches x 1 –inch.
Weight
This is a lightweight product that only weighs 4.2 –oubase layertrong>Insulation
Insulation
It utilizes the patented LifaStayDry system that ensures that the baselayer is kept dry at all times. This means that you stay dry and warm all the time.
5. MERIWOOL Merino Wool
This could be a great choice if you are looking for a super soft base layer made from all-natural material components.
Read moreFeatures
It features an itch-free baselayer that you can comfortably wear all day. It is breathable that keeps you fresh during summer and warm during winter. It features an interlock stitching that ensures you are comfortable at all times. It is effortless to clean and can be washed using the machine and dryer. It is equipped with anti-bacterial, moisture-wicking, and odor-resisting properties.
Materials
This item is made from 100 percent Merino wool that is soft to the skin. It has a smooth flatlock seam that prevents it from chafing.
Type
This lightweight and thin product is a midweight top type of base layer.
Size
It is available in six sizes ranging between extra small and triple XL.
Weight
This product has an overall item weight of 8 –ounces.
Insulation
In addition to its ability to wick away moisture this product guarantees to keep you fresh during summer and warm during winter or cold settings.
6. WoolX Glacier
This could be the ideal choice if you are looking for a product made for extremely cold temperature.
Read moreFeatures
It features a heavyweight design intended for the icy environment. It offers warmth without giving the wearer the additional strain in terms of weight. It can pull the moisture and even sweat away from your skin and body.
This item is very soft and does not stretch or shrink when cleaned using the washing machine, or dryer.it also features a no-itch fabric that ensures that the wearer will feel comfortable without any discomfort wearing it.
Materials
It is made of 100 percent 18.50 microns Australian Merino Wool that weighs 400g per meter. It can be used as a baselayer as well as mid-layer apparel for skiing, hunting, sports hiking, camping, snowballing, and running.
Type
This model is a top heavyweight type of base layer that is perfect for a freezing environment.
Size
For small size, the chest measurement is 34-36 while the arm’s length ranges between 30 and 33 -inches.
Weight
Despite its ability to provide warmth even in 0 degrees Celsius, this item is lightweight and only weighs 1 –pound.
Insulation
It is designed to withstand the frigid environment while ensuring that the wearer will not be burdened by additional weight because it is thin and lightweight.
7. Arc'teryx Satoro AR
It could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a product that comes with zipper closure.
Read moreFeatures
It features a nylon core wrapped by merino wool to ensure its durability. It offers next-to-skin coziness but with a more durable and robust construction compared to the ones made of 100 percent pure merino wool. Its cuffs are long and well-stitched for extra warmth, especially on the hands. The underarms are gusseted to enhance the wearer’s mobility. It has a laminated pocket with a zipper on the chest for men and on the arms for women. This adds to its functionality if used as an outer layer.
Materials
It is made of 81 percent Merino wool, 7 percent elastane, and 12 percent nylon. It has the right blend of fabrics to ensure that it stays soft to the skin while providing warmth to the wearer.
Type
This is a top long sleeve type of base layer.
Size
It has an overall product dimension of 8 –inches x 11 -inches x 10 –inches.
Weight
This item only weighs 4.4 –pounds.
Insulation
This model is designed to bring warmth to the wearer in addition to its enhanced durability and comfort.
8. AIRBLASTER Hooded
This could be the best choice if you are looking for one-piece apparel that can give you impressive warmth and comfort.
Read moreFeatures
It features a four-way stretch air tech fabric that wicks away sweat and moisture. It comes with a 350 –degrees waistline zipper for easy access especially if you want to go to the bathroom. It is equipped with a form-fitting seven-panel hood. It also has a front chest zip that is full length. This item has thumb loops that prevent the sleeves from riding up. It also shields the body from the cold air or wind and other outdoor elements. It is available in 14 various colors and patterns.
Materials
This product is made of 6 percent Spandex and 94 percent Polyester fabric. The spandex adds the product’s stretchability and comfort.
Type
This is a one-piece type of base layer that comes with a hood.
Size
It is available in various sizes ranging from double extra small (XXS) to extra-large (XL).
Weight
This product has an overall item weight of 1 –pound and boxed product weight of 1.6 –pounds.
Insulation
It is a smartly designed to ensure that the wearer gets the much-needed warmth while providing comfort and convenience at the same time.
9. Terramar Thermolator CS 2.0
It could be the supreme choice if you are looking for a product that has the ability to respond to the changing condition of your body.
Read moreFeatures
It features a Climasense treated baselayer that enables the product to adapt and react to the changing body condition. This means that when the environment is cold, this item provides warmth and makes you feel cold when it is hot.
This enables you to stay comfortable regardless of your activity level. It also comes with an advanced odor control and utilizes performance based and buesign certified technologies. Its material components offer unhindered and enhanced mobility. It comes with a back panel that has a full mesh to make sure that the wearer enjoys full ventilation.
Materials
It is made of 14 percent spandex and 86 percent micro polyester.
Type
This is a midweight long-sleeve type of baselayer.
Size
This model is available in various sizes. The smallest size measures between 34 and 36 –inches, medium size ranges between 38 and 40 –inches, large ranges between 42 and 44 –inches, extra-large ranges between 46 and 48 –inches, while the double extra-large ranges between 50 and 52 –inches.
Weight
It has an overall item weight of 1 –pound and a total shipping weight of 12.8 –ounces.
Insulation
It offers the right amount of warmth and has the ability to adjust to different conditions of the body.
10. Under Armour ColdGear
This could be a great choice if you are looking for a product that offers breathability and comfort while ensuring that your body maintains its much-needed warmth.
Read moreFeatures
It features a brushback knit material that optimizes comfort and warmth. It is capable of wicking away moisture and sweat and compared to other brands and models; it dries extremely fast. It utilizes anti-odor technology that protects the body and the fabric from microbes that causes odor. It also has a smooth flatlock stitch to avoid chafing.
Materials
This product is made of 13 percent elastane and 87 percent polyester. Elastane allows this item to hug your body line for a tight fit.
Type
This model is a top lightweight type of base layer.
Size
It has an overall product dimension of 6 –inches x 6 -inches x 3 –inches.
Weight
This model has an item and shipping weight of 8.2 –ounces.
Insulation
The material components of this product, as well as its features, contribute to its moisture-wicking ability that also ensures that the wearer gets the right amount of warmth.
Sources
- , BEST BASELAYERS OF 2019, Article
- , 11 Best Base Layers for Skiing and Snowboarding in 2019, Review