Cons: This is a premium fabric, with a premium price tag to match. Some of our testers also found it less comfy to wear than some synthetic tops. Synthetic material We found the best base layers for extreme performance and versatility on and off the mountain with durability that will last for years. We award base layers that will suit many outdoor activities and types of outdoor users – from merino to synthetic, budget choices to premium–available in various sizes. Here are some questions to help point you in the direction of the base layer of your dreams: HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO SPEND ON A BASE LAYER?

What is it? Fear not, it’s not akin to your favourite woolly jumper. Merino wool is lighter in weight than traditional wool, and its temperature-regulating properties make it perfect for base layers. Merino wool is great at temperature regulation and will help keep you warm on colder days and cooler on warmer days. Merino doesn’t dry fast if it is not in a dry environment, however, it will still keep you warm and won’t make you feel clammy even when wet. Most synthetics can be tumble dried on low, but air drying is best for some pieces. Base Layers for Kids Our base layers testing used six rating metrics with the following weightings to the overall final score:If it’s cold, you may intend to pile on the layers. But having a lightweight layer as your next-to-skin layer gives you more flexibility for temperature adjustment while doing something active. This allows you to keep the warmth against your body and adjust as needed. Many folks will layer a heavyweight base layer over a lightweight one for very cold aerobic sports. Synthetic base layers are most often made of polyester, nylon, spandex, etc. They come in a wide range of styles, price points, and technologies, like adding silver to aid in antimicrobial properties. Base layers are a great way to make physical activity in the outdoors more enjoyable. They keep you warm in the cold weather conditions. They keep you cooler in hot weather. They also help prevent rubbing or chafing in sensitive spots. Base layers can be used while running, hiking, climbing, biking, or any activity, especially outdoors. Utilizing base layers will help you worry less about keeping warm (or staying cool) and allow you to focus on your outdoor or physical activity goals. On the flip side I have another child that is always complaining of being cold. Her teachers at school tell me every year that she wears her winter coat in the classroom all day long. Ibex has long been a favorite of several testers, and the Ibex Journey, long sleeve crew base layer, did not disappoint. The Journey is a basic, lightweight baselayer made with merino wool and nylon blended fabric. The merino wool provides odor protection, while the nylon provides durability and less itch. However, we found that it still had some itchiness, surprising because our previous Ibex baselayers had zero itch.

Not really. I know I’ve mentioned a few good benefits of thumb holes in your outdoor gear, but let’s be honest, we all fared perfectly well without them before. You can always keep your hands warm on a run or a hike with gloves, and though I’ve heard runners say they like thumb holes because it stops their sleeves from riding up, I can’t personally say that’s ever a problem I’ve encountered. Maybe I don’t run swiftly enough?Slim athletic fit requires a slim athletic body type, expensive, not as durable as cheaper synthetics Pros: Synthetic base layers tend to be affordable, lightweight and easy to wear. They can feel similar to Lycra, making them a good fit for activities requiring a wide range of motion, such as HIIT.