Base layers are an essential part of an extreme cold outfit because they act as a second skin ensuring the insulating layer, also known as a mid-layer, and outer shell can function properly. Thermals prevent cold from getting inside and stop body heat from dissipating. Not only that, but layers also help keep the surface of your skin dry and reduce chafing.
Why Do I Need A Base LayerÂ
Base layers sit next to your skin and are responsible for helping you regulate your body temperature, thereby helping you stay warm and dry. Base layers come in both tops and bottoms and in a variety of styles including t-shirts, long sleeves, long bottoms, and more, and are typically made from wool or synthetic fabrics such as polyester.
Choosing A Base Layer
Most of our base layers will provide you with their top benefits for comfort at home and on the mountain. However, the materials used in constructing base layers are integral to several factors, including the intended activity, climate, duration and intensity. So, to help you choose the best base layer, we’ve highlighted our experts’ innovative selection of Merino wool, synthetic and hybrid pieces so you can pick the perfect thermal to suit your winter. We prioritize quality kit that’s fit for purpose and built to last, and prefer to stock brands who share our values. Below are a selection of products selected with performance, durability and the planet in mind.
Choosing A Base Layer Weight Â
We listed lightweight and midweight base layers for this guide because they’re best for aerobic activities in cold weather. Lightweight base layers are particularly helpful if you plan to spend time outside on a warmer day or you run hot. It might seem counterintuitive to wear base layers in warm weather, but base layers wick sweat, which can prevent chafing and blisters. Some brands also offer heavyweight base layers for extra-cold activities like winter camping or ice fishing.  Â
Base Layers Are Critical to a Stay-Warm Strategy
When you work in the cold, you probably know that layers can help you stay warm. But you also probably spent much more time picking out your jacket and pants than you did base layers, if you remembered them at all.
Base Layer Warmth
Your base layer should be determined by 2 things: how cold is it and how active are you going to be. Sometimes, if your active or the temperature isn’t that cold, you should select a lighter-weight base layer top and don’t forget the base layer pants. Paired with the right outer layer, lighter base layers may be perfect. If you’re going to be less active, like driving a tractor, or the weather is going to be much colder, then select a heavier-weight base layer top and bottoms. The weight is merely a function of how thick the material is or if it has a lining, like fleece, to add warmth.
Base Layer Moisture Control
Even in cold environments, when you work hard you sweat. Sweat is the body’s way of cooling the body off. But if that moisture collects under your clothes, it will only serve to make you colder and uncomfortable. To fight this, you need moisture-wicking base layers made from materials that wick moisture away from your skin and allow it to evaporate.
Base Layers for Better Movement
We all know performance and mobility is just as important as protection when choosing work gear for the cold. RefrigiWear makes flexible base layers that can stretch with your movements and move in all directions. The best fit is snug, so you aren’t pulling at rumpled material under your outer layers all day. So not too tight or too loose.
