Base Layers and Underwear

Brand

ExOfficio
Icebreaker
Arc'teryx
Patagonia
Smartwool
Coldpruf
Craft
Airblaster
Marmot
Outdoor Research

User

Unisex
Men's
Women's
Kids'
Boys'
Girls'

Price

less than $25
$25 - $49.99
$50 - $99.99
$100 - $199.99
$200 - $299.99
$300 - $399.99
$400 - $499.99
$500 and above

Recent Base Layer Reviews

The Elixir UV Arm Sleeves

Arm covers to protect you from the sun. Sun protection using lightweight arm sleeves that have numerous color choices. In the hot summer, a long sleeved shirt may make you feel too warm. While wearing a short sleeve shirt, the arm covers prevent sunburn and help keep your arms cool. In the shade, take them off it you want. They compress to a baseball size. I have another pair from a bike gear company that costs $30+ and liked them a lot. I looked online and found lots of black ones that seemed they… Full review

Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Pant

An excellent base layer choice from a company that understands cold and wet weather. The HH LIFA Merino 2-layer construction keeps you warm and dry in all kinds of conditions, and feels great when wearing it. Watch out for the “athletic” fit when purchasing, but if you get the right fit this base layer will keep you comfortable in rain, sleet, and snow well below freezing. Note that this is a companion review with the Helly Hansen LIFA Merino 1/2 Zip top.Product Description Helly Hansen (HH)… Full review

Helly Hansen LIFA Merino 1/2 Zip

An excellent base layer choice from a company that understands cold and wet weather. The HH LIFA Merino 2-layer construction keeps you warm and dry in all kinds of conditions, and feels great when wearing it. Watch out for the “athletic” fit when purchasing, but if you get the right fit this base layer will keep you comfortable in rain, sleet, and snow well below freezing. Note: This is a companion review along with the Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Pant. Product Description Helly Hansen (HH) LIFA… Full review

Fjallraven Bergtagen Longjohns

The Fjallraven Bergtagen Long Johns is a base layer pant that utilizes wool in three different weaves to maximize heat retention in key areas (butt, groin) and breathability in others (thighs, calves). It’s a total home run of execution and since I received this base layer for testing I have worn nothing else. It’s exceptionally well tailored, durable, doesn’t stink on multi-day trips, and you’ll have no fear around a fire. The only possible negatives are more inherent to wool, than this… Full review

Fjallraven Bergtagen Woolmesh Sweater

The Fjallraven Bergtagen Woolmesh Sweater is a base layer top that utilizes wool in three different weaves to maximize heat retention in key areas (chest, back) and breathability in others (stomach, underarms). It’s a total home run of execution and since I received this top for testing I have worn nothing else. It’s exceptionally well tailored, durable, doesn’t stink on multi-day trips, and you’ll have no fear around a fire. The only possible negatives are more inherent to wool, than this… Full review

Ridge Merino Inversion Heavyweight Crew

A merino wool baselayer that is soft and warm. Perfect for cold-weather activities of all kinds. Fit and Comfort: Finally, a baselayer top that has a little extra length in the sleeves and torso and stays in place, no matter the activity. I’ve worn several merino products over the years and this is as comfortable as any that I’ve worn with a soft-to-the-skin and no-itch feeling. This top fits close but not restrictively tight to the body. The length of the torso and arms are both generous, meaning… Full review

Ridge Merino Inversion Heavyweight Bottoms

A warm and comfortable pair of baselayer pants that work particularly well below freezing temps, but they do have sizing limitations. Fit and Comfort: At 6’2” and 190 lbs. (1.88m and 86.2 kg), I typically wear pants with a 31” or 32” waist and a 34” inseam. I tested a men’s medium size, due to its accurate waist size, realizing that the length might be slightly shorter than desired, according to the manufacturer’s sizing chart. In fact, I’d have to jump up two sizes to a men’s… Full review

Toad&Co Pacer Slim Long Sleeve Quarter Zip

A versatile garment from a philanthropically-minded company that strikes a compromise between backcountry base layer and in-town casual wear. With grime-concealing colors and a poly-wool blend, the Pacer Quarter Zip is a thermoregulating, moisture-wicking, low-odor option for travelers with limited wardrobe space and for anyone who doesn't mind giving up some performance or style for a garment that offers a viable trail-to-town option. A Trail-to-Town Quarter Zip The Toad & Co. Pacer Slim Long… Full review

Helly Hansen Women's HH Wool LS Crew

Sturdy, warm, and straightforward. This is not the most comfortable wool base layer out there, but it performs beautifully in terms of fit, warmth, and durability. This top is well made and will keep you warm. No bells, no whistles. Fit & Comfort - Fit in arms, shoulders, and torso is true to size, keeping in mind that the desired fit of this top is very snug. I'd recommend trying it on before buying if you have concerns about the sizing. The wool was fine on my skin, but other backpackers found… Full review