Everything you need to know about baselayers

If you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, you most definitely will have heard of base layers.

However, for outdoor beginners, it can be difficult to navigate through all the different types of protective clothing, let alone understand why certain types are important.

For example, do you know why base layers are so effective and why no hiker, climber or camper should leave home without some?

If the answer is no, don’t panic just yet. We’ve put together a short and easy-to-follow Q&A style article that covers everything you need to know about this superb type of protective outdoor clothing.

Base layers overview

If you’re simply looking for quick answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding base layers, you’re in the right place. However, if you prefer to dive into a more complex read, check out our guide to base layers and thermal wear.

In our base layer and thermal wear guide, we cover these questions in more detail. Perfect for those interested in learning more detail on how this type of outdoor clothing works. Click here to be taken directly to this article.

So, if short and snappy answers are what you’re looking for, continue reading.

What are base layers?

Base layers are the first layer of clothing you should be putting on before setting off on an outdoor trip. In other words, a base layer will be the clothing closest to your skin.

Base layers are specially designed to keep you both warm and cool, depending on what you need. It’ll ensure you remain comfortable throughout your adventure, providing an extra layer of warmth whilst simultaneously absorbing any sweat.

To shop the Berghaus Mens 24/7 Tech Baselayer T-Shirt shown in the image, click here.

What are base layers?
Base layers are the first layer of clothing you should be putting on before setting off on an outdoor trip. In other words, a base layer will be the clothing closest to your skin.
Base layers are specially designed to keep you both warm and cool, depending on what you need. It’ll ensure you remain comfortable throughout your adventure, providing an extra layer of warmth whilst simultaneously absorbing any sweat.
To shop the Berghaus Mens 24/7 Tech Baselayer T-Shirt shown in the image, click here.

What types of base layer clothes are there?

There are many types of base layer clothing. Which ones you’ll require will ultimately depend on what makes you comfortable and what type of outdoor adventure you’re going on.

You’ll be able to find base layer underwear, socks, t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, sweatshirts and leggings. If you haven’t worn base layers before, you’ll notice that the fit is usually tight and quite snug.

So, if you’re thinking you’ve purchased the wrong size – it’s supposed to be that way, as it’ll be made to ensure the perfect amount of heat is retained.

To shop the Sprayway Womens Kara Crew Neck Baselayer shown in the image, click here.

What types of base layer clothes are there?
There are many types of base layer clothing. Which ones you’ll require will ultimately depend on what makes you comfortable and what type of outdoor adventure you’re going on.
You’ll be able to find base layer underwear, socks, t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, sweatshirts and leggings. If you haven’t worn base layers before, you’ll notice that the fit is usually tight and quite snug.
So, if you’re thinking you’ve purchased the wrong size – it’s supposed to be that way, as it’ll be made to ensure the perfect amount of heat is retained.
To shop the Sprayway Womens Kara Crew Neck Baselayer shown in the image, click here.

What’s the best way to wear them?

The best way to wear base layers is to always wear them next to your skin. We’ll explain why below.

Think of a base layer as an extra layer of skin. Light to wear and snug to fit, base layers help to keep you warm without overheating, and cool in hot weather when you’re exerting yourself with activities like climbing or hiking.

So, if you were to put a layer of clothing under a base layer, it won’t work very well. However, an alternative is to wear several layers in extremely cold weather conditions, as this will certainly lock in much-needed body heat. Other layers can include mid-layers (e.g. light jackets, fleeces and jumpers) and outerwear (e.g. waterproof coats).

Shop base layers for men and base layers for women.

What’s the best way to wear them?
The best way to wear base layers is to always wear them next to your skin. We’ll explain why below.
Think of a base layer as an extra layer of skin. Light to wear and snug to fit, base layers help to keep you warm without overheating, and cool in hot weather when you’re exerting yourself with activities like climbing or hiking.
So, if you were to put a layer of clothing under a base layer, it won’t work very well. However, an alternative is to wear several layers in extremely cold weather conditions, as this will certainly lock in much-needed body heat. Other layers can include mid-layers (e.g. light jackets, fleeces and jumpers) and outerwear (e.g. waterproof coats).
Shop base layers for men and base layers for women.

What are base layers made of?

Generally speaking, most base layers are made from synthetic materials, such as polyester or a polyester mix, or even wool such as Merino. Although, base layers made from wool mixes are also available. All of these are very effective at helping to moderate your body temperature and keep you comfortable.

Modern base layers are designed to wick away moisture or allow sweat to evaporate through the fabric.

That’s why you’ll have trouble finding base layers made from cotton, as this type of material is generally classed as not suitable for base layers.

This is because once you start to sweat, it will absorb moisture and feel pretty heavy and clammy. Plus, when you eventually stop for a break, damp cotton will make you feel chilled. So, in other words, not ideal!

What are base layers made of?
Generally speaking, most base layers are made from synthetic materials, such as polyester or a polyester mix, or even wool such as Merino. Although, base layers made from wool mixes are also available. All of these are very effective at helping to moderate your body temperature and keep you comfortable.
Modern base layers are designed to wick away moisture or allow sweat to evaporate through the fabric.
That’s why you’ll have trouble finding base layers made from cotton, as this type of material is generally classed as not suitable for base layers.
This is because once you start to sweat, it will absorb moisture and feel pretty heavy and clammy. Plus, when you eventually stop for a break, damp cotton will make you feel chilled. So, in other words, not ideal!

Do base layers retain an unpleasant odour?

It’ll depend on the material you go for. For example, if you purchase polyester base layers, they can (potentially) retain a little odour after a while. This is very normal, and all you’ll need to do is throw it in the wash when you’re back from your outdoor adventure.

Wool base layers, on the other hand, are known to be better at not retaining any odour from sweat. You’ll likely be able to get at least a few days out of base layers made from wool before noticing any unpleasant smells. That’s why they tend to be priced slightly higher than their polyester counterparts.

So, in other words, synthetic materials such as polyester are very effective, however, some will be absorbed and start to smell when dry. Wool base layers won’t have this problem as quickly, but they tend to be priced higher. So, if you’re not wanting to spend extra if you can avoid it, simply wash on a 40-degree cycle when you get home, and you’ll be good to go again!

Which types of base layers do I need?

This will entirely depend on the time of year and personal preference.

For example, in winter, it’s super important to ensure you’re layered up, starting with a t-shirt or long-sleeve base layer. In addition, if it’s very cold, leggings under your trousers will never go amiss.

Next comes a fleece (as a mid-layer) and then a windproof/waterproof jacket on top. If you find yourself in cold and blustery weather, we recommend wearing two base layers to really trap your body heat. Trust us, it’ll make the world of difference to your performance and overall experience.

Throughout the summer months, a simple base layer with a light fleece or jacket that can be packed away may be all you need, depending on where you go.

On hot and humid days, a base layer on its own is ideal for walking, hiking and climbing as it’s so light and helps to keep you cool. Another benefit of lightweight base layers is that they take up hardly any space.

Does it have to be a tight fit?

In short, yes. Base layers work best at keeping you protected and comfortable when worn snugly. However, if you’re at all self-conscious about the figure-hugging fit, you can always wear a looser-fitting base layer on top.

In any case, once you’ve been wearing a lightweight base layer for a while, you’ll soon forget you’ve even got one on!

Does it have to be a tight fit?
In short, yes. Base layers work best at keeping you protected and comfortable when worn snugly. However, if you’re at all self-conscious about the figure-hugging fit, you can always wear a looser-fitting base layer on top.
In any case, once you’ve been wearing a lightweight base layer for a while, you’ll soon forget you’ve even got one on!

Which outdoor clothing brands produce the best base layers?

Many trusted and recognised brands produce base layers, as it’s seen as a staple part of any outdoor wardrobe.

For example, here at Winfields Outdoors, we stock a superb range of base layers and thermals, brought to you by the best brands in the outdoor industry. Our range covers a variety of options for men, women and children – in a wide range of sizes and styles.

So, if you fancy browsing base layers from Berghaus, Regatta, Heat Holders and many other industry-leading outdoor brands, we’d highly recommend checking out our range.

Click here to be taken directly to our full range of base layers.