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We took 42 base layers from Arc'teryx, Ridge Merino, Smartwool, Black Diamond, Icebreaker, Patagonia, and others to extremes during months of real-world testing to uncover the top performers for varied needs
Base layers fabrics vary greatly in thickness, therefore, we recommend selecting the best fabric weight for your specific needs. Our testing team found that midweight options provide the widest range of performance for year round use.
Credit: Trish Matheny
By Trish Matheny ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated November 2, 2026
When temps drop, it's time to layer up, but a great base does more than just keep you warm. The other important task of your next-to-skin layer is to draw moisture away from your body, keeping you dry even when you work up a sweat, and cozy through the deep chill of winter.
Earning a spot at the top of our list for men is the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino 1/4 Zip. This top wears like your favorite pair of pajamas, and the 100% wool makeup does an excellent job of boosting warmth. The quarter zip at the front works well to dump heat if you start to work up a sweat, though the tall collar doesn't layer as well under casual clothing.
The best base layer for women is another 100% Merino wool option. The Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crew is a basic, slim-fitting top that layers easily under a casual sweater or a technical fleece jacket, making it a good all-rounder for hitting the slopes or walking to work in sub-zero temps.
Over the last decade, we have purchased and evaluated more than 100 of the best base layers for men and women, wearing them on climbing trips in Yosemite Valley, cozied up by the fire after a long day on the slopes, and on our morning commute during a January chill.
Who this is best for: The Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino 1/4 Zip is a heavier-weight layer that we love to wear in the heart of winter, when we could use the extra boost of warmth. We're big fans of wearing 100% wool base - though a bit pricey, it keeps us warmer than many synthetic options we've tested. Plus, wool is naturally odor-resistant, so we felt fine working up a sweat in this top during February snowshoe trips, trusting that it wouldn't get that funky musty smell after a few days.
Why we love it: The heavier weight of the Smartwool Classic works best for colder days, but the front half-zip gives you a little more wiggle room to regulate your body temp in various conditions. On warmer bluebird days, we'd open it up to dump heat from our chest. When facing cutting wind and negative temps, we'd zip the high collar up to our chin. We also love how comfortable this top is, whether worn as a standalone top or layered with heavier jackets; the slim (but not tight) cut allows plenty of freedom of movement, and the fabric feels good against the skin.
Should you buy it? When wearing the Smartwool Classic Thermal, keep in mind that Merino wool is delicate. The ultra-fine natural fibers won't stand a chance against tree limbs or granite rock faces, and it'll need a bit more TLC in the wash. The zip collar also doesn't layer as well under casual clothing; we prefer a crew neck for that. But in most cases, the Classic Thermal can adapt to ever-changing needs. One of our team members put it best: “Whether I'm sweating on a snowy trail or just hanging by the fire, I never regret packing this layer. I know it'll do the job right every time.”
Who this is best for: The Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crewe is a slim-fitting 100% merino wool base layer. It's not flashy, but its simplicity allows it to adapt to just about any activity. It can be worn to work under a nice sweater for an extra boost of warmth, or keep you dry while working up a sweat while racking up resort laps on warm spring ski days. The 100% wool composition helps to regulate your core temperature and manage moisture in any scenario. It's too warm for year-round use, but it's great for cold-weather layering and is our top choice for everyday winter wear.
Why we love it: The flatlock seams and zipperless design mean it sits close to the skin, and all but disappears under jackets and sweaters - without adding bulk. The skinfeel of the ultra-fine knit is impressively soft, never itchy, and has a slight amount of stretch that allows the top to move with you to your fullest range of motion.
Should you buy it? Wool has good wicking properties, but if it does get wet, the Oasis Crewe takes longer to dry than most synthetic materials. It's not the best if you tend to work up a sweat very easily. It's also more expensive and needs extra care when washing. We recommend line drying to keep this layer in good shape for multiple seasons. But if you're constantly cold during the winter months and are willing to put in some extra effort on laundry days, the Icebreaker Oasis Crewe is a reliable staple for a cold-weather wardrobe.
The Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crewe is a high-quality design with a longer torso that's easy to layer while providing excellent thermoregulation during a variety of mountain sports.
Who this is best for: If the price and delicate nature of a 100% wool top put you off, the REI Co-op Midweight Half-Zip is a great alternative made from synthetic fibers. It's an affordable, no-fuss base layer that works well through multiple seasons and activities. With thumb loops, a half-zip for temperature control, and flatlock seams to reduce shoulder irritation under a pack, it punches above its price point in design and wearability. It's not the warmest, but that makes it more versatile in our opinion. We would fully endorse this as a three-season layer that can take you from late fall trail runs to mid-winter snowshoe hikes to spring backpacking trips.
Why we love it: Synthetic fabric has some real pros, such as faster dry times and improved wicking ability. This is our go-to option for days when we know we are going to work up a sweat, but we still need something to keep us warm as we start out on our hike or bike ride. And we love that the material is stretchy and comfortable without the stiff, plasticky feel that some synthetics can have.
Should you buy it? The versatility and durability increase the value of the REI Co-op Half-Zip ; it's a layer that you can wear year-round for multiple years. However, the downside is that you lose some warmth, and synthetic fabrics tend to hold onto odor more easily, so you'll want to take care to wash this soon after wearing so you don't let the sweat fest continue in your dirty laundry pile. We like the neck protection of the taller collar, but if you want to layer under casual clothing, there is a crew neck option too. That said, it's hard to beat in terms of value. If you're looking for a dependable base layer without spending a fortune, this one is an easy “yes.”
Small details such as discreet thumb loops featured in the REI Co-op Midweight Half-Zip design help to keep your hands covered and warm, while aiding in easy layering over top. Credit: Justin Simoni
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew - Women's is a great option for women who want a flattering, functional, and durable synthetic layer without spending a fortune on the latest design. It's ideal for low-output adventures like hiking or climbing on cool days, especially when comfort and mobility are more important than top-tier breathability. That said, even if you do work up a sweat, the synthetic fibers will dry faster than their wool counterpart.
Why we love it: This base layer combines a close body fit with soft, stretchy fabric that feels like wearing a comfy pajama top, but it's far more durable than your average shirt. After putting it through its paces on a climbing trip in Indian Creek, one tester shared, “The climbing here is physical, and the routes are long and demanding, yet this layer held its own.” It doesn't snag as easily on the Velcro of your ski jacket, and you won't have to be as careful while playing with your dog while wearing this top.
Should you buy it? The Midweight Base Layer Crew does come with some trade-offs. Like many synthetic layers we've used, it retains odor quickly, and unfortunately, it started to smell almost immediately after use. You'll want to throw it in the wash cycle as soon as you take it off after a day of sweaty adventure. The tightly woven polyester is warmer, but also limits airflow, making it less ideal for summertime use. But if you're looking for a solid, well-priced option that's durable and fits well, this piece is hard to beat for the money.
Who this is best for: The Merino.tech Crew is a good compromise for budget-conscious shoppers who still want the temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking benefits of 100% Merino wool. It's especially appealing for those who prioritize breathability on chilly runs or need a light layer that's good for summer backpacking trips. If you're after the performance you get from natural fiber, minus the high price tag, this one stands out.
Why we love it: This lightweight crew uses ultra-fine Merino microfibers that feel soft against the skin without any of the infamous “itch” associated with traditional wool. It layers easily thanks to its close-to-body fit and has excellent thermoregulation, as is standard in most merino wool clothing. “A lighter fabric weight like the Merino.tech Crew is usually what I prefer on my chillier runs since I tend to build up a lot of heat, but still need some insulation,” says lead reviewer Justin Simoni.
Should you buy it? The Merino.tech Crew delivers excellent value, but it's not without some flaws. The 100% wool construction is a bit delicate and lacks reinforcement found in wool-synthetic blends. Overlock seams (rather than flatlock) may also irritate sensitive skin, especially when worn under other layers or backpack straps. The slim fit doesn't have a ton of stretch, so it could limit movement for some; if you're worried about mobility, you might want to size up. Despite these caveats, if you're willing to care for it gently and prioritize comfort and breathability over long-term ruggedness, this is a standout pick in the entry-level Merino category.
Who this is best for: The Merino.tech Crew is fairly heavy-duty as far as base layers go. The thick 100% wool layer pairs perfectly with a cozy fleece and a heavy winter jacket to keep you warm on your morning commute in the dead of January. And the Nordic-inspired pattern and decorative stitching make us want to hang out in this layer for aprés ski hot drinks. We found it to be too warm for spring and fall use, though; we recommend this to anyone who wants a big boost of warmth for the colder days of winter.
Why we love it: We love to find a 100% merino wool top as affordable as this one despite the lower cost, the shirt seems to be well built and showed no signs of wear during our testing. Those brightly colored seams aren't just for good looks, the flatlock stitching is tight and secure, and allow the edges of the fabric to meet without any overlap, making this shirt more comfortable to wear under other layers. However, as with any wool clothing, we recommend washing on a delicate cycle setting and laying flat to dry to keep this top in great condition.
Should you buy it? The Merino.tech Crew is half the price of our other favorite wool tops, and is just about as warm, too. The downside is that the skin feel is not quite as cozy, and can even lean itchy if you get too warm while wearing this top (we found this to get better after a few washes). The thicker fabric also dries slower and doesn't breathe as well, so if you work up a sweat while snowshoeing uphill, you might feel chilled by the accumulated moisture on your way back down. However, for slower-paced activities on deep winter days where you need an extra kick of warmth to keep you outside, the Merino.tech is a great option that will save you a few bucks.
Note that the 250 g/m² weight is thicker and warmer than the 165 g/m² weight of the men's option above.
The crew neck of the Meino.Tech allows it to dissapear under casual sweaters. Credit: Gus Landefeld
The construction features thick, durable, and aesthetic flatlock seams. Credit: Trish Matheny
Though it takes longer to dry, the Merino.tech crew is a great option for those seeking Merino wool performance while sticking to a tight budget. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who this is best for: The Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew is perfect for those looking for a very lightweight base layer top for three-season use. It is our go-to when we want to add a little warmth to our layering system and when absolutely excellent breathability is a total non-negotiable. Made with an innovative NuYarn blend of wool and synthetic fibers, this layer is so lightweight that it borders on sheer. It fits snugly over the body and allows sweat to move through easily, keeping you as dry as possible. “Even as a bigger guy, I love the athletic fit of the Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew. This top feels as good alone as it does layered,” beams our tester.
Why we love it: We adore just how stretchy the fabric found on the Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew really is, hugging our body and moving along with it, rather than fighting against it or restricting our movement. It layers up effortlessly and complements anything we wear on top. The lightweight fabric dries super fast on the line for times we stop for the night while backpacking or in the hotel room to hang it up after a quick wash for next morning's duties. This also hints at how fast it'll dry when wearing.
Should you buy it? This is a perfect top for cool, but not freezing, weather. We wore it a lot during shoulder season activites, like late fall trail runs, and even summer backpacking trips that took us to high altitudes in the mountains. But if you want to wear this in the coldest conditions imaginable, you'll need heavier outer layers. Additionally, such a high-performance, lightweight base layer needs a little extra TLC, so make sure you're OK with mostly handwashing the Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew and hanging it up to dry to protect your investment. You'll want to think about wearing this top underneath something to keep it from snagging on your dog's toenails or the Velcro of your ski jacket.
The Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew is sensational lightweight, but delivers on both warmth and comfort, care of its advanced wool/synthetic blended fabric. Credit: Justin Simoni
Air-permeable construction for maximum breathability
Flattering fit
Zippered neck and hood to contain or release body heat
Discreet thumb loops for additional coverage and layering
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Not a good choice for standalone warmth
Who this is best for: The Stio Trax Power Grid Half Zip Hoodie offers unbeatable breathability without sacrificing warmth. The unique material has lofty fleece divided into a grid by thin mesh, allowing moisture to escape while still providing some insulation. This layer quickly became our go-to for trail runs, rock climbing, backcountry skiing, and spring hikes. Or for when it was time to shovel our car out of a snowstorm and we worked up a sweat hucking snow on top of the pile. When paired with an outer layer to cut the wind, the lofty insulation of the Trax Hoodie is warm enough to wear even when you're not on the move, like when you're riding the chairlift or walking the dog.
Why we love it: The grid design of the Stio Trax is by far its standout feature, but it's not the only thing we love. The addition of a roomy hood, 1/4-zip neck, and discreet thumb loops allow you to further trap or offload body heat depending on the conditions and temperatures. And while looks aren't everything, our testers appreciated the flattering fit and would reach for this layer whether they were trail running, rock climbing, or mountain biking. Also, synthetic fabrics are notorious for holding onto odor, but the Trax has an anti-odor finish that has worked well so far, despite how often we sweated in this top.
Should you buy it? The Trax Power Grid isn't without a few caveats. The same mesh grid that allows sweat to evaporate also lets a chill breeze right in. “I would be really disappointed if I was expecting standalone warmth from this layer,” says one tester. That said, it was perfect for activities where we started to work up a sweat, like stacking wood and chopping kindling. And even after a long testing period, we couldn't find any signs of wear and tear. Ultimately, for anyone who prioritizes active performance and breathability, the Trax Power Grid is tough to beat.
The Stio Trax Power Grid Half Zip Hoodie is the perfect layer for women whose activities require ample breathability to keep them warm and cozy outdoors. Credit: Trish Matheny
Unique knitting tech that optimizing areas for different attributes
Lofty wool/synthetic blends boosts breathability
Long length and drop tail
REASONS TO AVOID
Seams exist in some less-than-ideal places
More expensive than simpler options
Who this is best for: The Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino is what we grab for when the temps are low, we need the added warmth of a heavier base layer, and we're also planning on some really active pursuits: ski touring, hiking, or mountaineering. This base layer delivers equal parts warm and dry, with impressive breathability for the weight of the fabric, beating out other 100% merino wool tops. We'll credit the synthetic fibers added to the fabric's recipe.
Why we love it: The very unique knitting tech found on the Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino delivers separate zones that are optimized to give you different performance where you want it. For example, the tops of the shoulders, armpits, and the back have more ventilation, while a thicker fabric is placed at the elbows for better abrasion resistance. The sleeve ends and sides are even stretchier than the rest of this top, allowing the fit to conform to a wider variety of body types.
Should you buy it? Unfortunately, the patterning put a few seams in places that may rub or chafe. “Two seams converge right at the armpit, which is a pet peeve of mine,” notes our tester. The seam line runs the crest of the shoulders as well, which may get annoying if you carry a heavy pack. Like many products that rely on technical advances, the price is higher than some other choices, and you may have to ask yourself whether you need the specialized body-mapping tech. But in the case of the Intraknit, we think the added durability will likely translate into a longer usable life in your closet.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Rho Hoody has been in our lineup for close to 4 years, and each time we retest it, we are reminded of how much we love it. The close-fitting cut and smooth synthetic material layer well, but are durable enough to be worn on their own. The soft and cozy fleece interior adds to the warmth of the heavy-weight fabric. Articulated patterning and gusseted underarms allow for a full range of motion, a detail that runners and Nordic skiers may appreciate.
Why we love it: The Rho Hoody was made to move in. The slim fit, articulated patterning, thoughtful seams, and versatile warmth will perfectly complement the rest of your winter kit, and even replace parts of it. A high neckline and a balaclava-style hood allow you to skip the neck buff, and provides decent standalone warmth and sun protection in the alpine. “After several rounds of testing over the years, I can confidently attest to its durability and lasting performance,” says one tester after noting the Rho's ability to maintain performance after many years of use.
Should you buy it? The design of the Rho Hoody is made with intention and will last for years, which can help justify the high cost. However, the techy features may not be useful for everyone. The thicker fabric and high neckline provide additional warmth, but they limit breathability during fast-paced activities and don't layer well for casual use. And even though the Rho is treated with an anti-odor Polygiene treatment, it still holds onto body odor if we didn't toss it in the wash right after taking it off. That said, if you want a layer that can keep up with you on backcountry ski days or laps around the local Nordic track, the Rho won't disappoint.
The Arc'teryx Rho Hoody has been updated for the 26/27 winter season. Changes include a new zippered pocket on the upper, and the removal of the ponytail hole in the hood. We are now linking to the newest version of this top.
The Arc'teryx Rho Hoody is our overall favorite when it comes to a high quality and top-performing women's base layer who's durable design is built to perform throughout the seasons. Credit: Trish Matheny
Why Trust GearLab
Our GearLab testing team consists of outdoor enthusiasts from various backgrounds and geographical locations who know a high-performing base layer when they see one or when they wear one.
Justin Simoni: As lead reviewer for our Men's Base Layer lineup, and a Colorado local, Justin takes advantage of his prime location to make year-round ascents of Longs Peak, and often relies on human-powered bike-from-town approaches. For the last ten years, he has poured his energy into long-distance bikepacking races and pursuing mountain FKTs (Fastest Known Times), including the Tour Divide, Colorado Trail Race, and even his own personal 14er challenges. If Justin knows anything about anything, it's that base layers are critical to moving comfortably through remote locations, especially when awaiting the heat of the rising sun.
Trish Matheny: Spending over a decade living and exploring the Teton Mountain Range has prepped Trish to lead our Women's baselayer testing team. Whether prioritizing backcountry miles on her splitboard, trail running throughout the High Sierra backcountry, climbing multi-pitch routes high in the alpine, or simply trying to stay warm in camp four, she has extensive experience-based knowledge in selecting the best layer for her chosen activity. After relocating to California and joining Yosemite's Search and Rescue Team, she spends the majority of her time living outdoors, and of course, she's wearing the best base layer for the conditions.
Trish and Justin put these layers to the test, whether training indoors or playing in the mountains. They hope their hard-earned expertise will help you with your next purchase.
How We Tested
GearLab's testing teams have thoughtfully selected and purchased hundreds of men's and women's base layers over the last 10 years. Our expert team really puts these layers to the test, whether pursuing various outdoor objectives or simply lounging around at the house to better determine overall comfort and fit. To ensure we remain unbiased during side-by-side testing, we never accept any freebie products from manufacturers.
Our testing team spends many hours out in the field capturing subjective insights across all key metrics for each base layer and brings them back to the “lab” for more objective assessments. We layer them, wear them as standalone pieces, sweat in them, wash them, sweat in them again… you get the picture. Our testing for women's base layers and our process for testing men's base layers cover the same basic metrics, with a few differentiating fit-related points between genders. Fieldwork can involve anything from 3,000-foot multi-pitch climbs to winter days in the backcountry, and high-alpine trail runs in the California Sierra Nevada range and in the Cordillera Blanca in Peru.
The base layers in this review were tested across 6 performance metrics:
Warmth
Breathability
Comfort and Fit
Durability
Drying Speed
Layering Ability
We measured everything from overall warmth and breathability to drying speed to carefully evaluate the individual performance of each layer.
How to Choose a Base Layer
Base layers must wick sweat and moisture away from the body while maintaining body heat and providing a cozy next-to-skin feel. Many modern designs even feature gussets in specific locations to maximize mobility during various outdoor activities. Some are the perfect base for layering with mid-weight and heavier-weight jackets, while others offer enough stand-alone performance to be worn independently.
Baselayers are for more than just skiing. Find the right one, and it can become like a second skin for year-round use. Credit: Justin Simoni
Men's Base Layers
After extensive testing and taking in-depth notes on each men's base layer, we rate and rank each one. The chart below summarizes the performance of each layer we reviewed during our hunt for the best men's thermal layers available today.
Women's Base Layers
GearLab's expert female testing team pulled out all the stops to examine the top base layers for women, putting each garment through a range of tests to evaluate overall and comparative performance, as shown in the chart below.
Natural vs Synthetic Fibers
These days, base layers are typically constructed from natural fibers (Merino wool, bamboo, Tencel, and hemp), synthetics (nylon, spandex, polyester), or a combination of the two. Merino wool is deservedly the most sought-after fabric for base layers due to its ability to maintain warmth even when wet and its naturally wicking antimicrobial fibers that help move sweat and resist odor. Perhaps most importantly, it ages well and becomes remarkably soft against the skin the longer you wear it. These superpowers do not come without a few trade-offs. Namely, reduced durability due to the delicate natures of the fibers, a slow drying speed, and, most notably, steep price tags.
Although more expensive and less durable, Merino wool offers naturally odor-free wicking performance and next-to-skin comfort.
By comparison, synthetics are known for their lasting durability. Recycled polyester, tencel, nylon, spandex, and elastane combine to offer superior stretch, forming to your shape and enhancing mobility. They also allow for a more breathable, faster-drying design. The major drawback most people associate with synthetics is their tendency to hold onto body odor - Capilene, anyone? However, these fabrics are often more affordable and last longer than their Merino wool counterparts.
Synthetics are known for a less expensive price tag and a highly durable construction, even if they may also hold onto body odor after extensive use.
Are you looking for the best of both worlds? Consider a wool-synthetic blend. This hybrid blends the warmth and softness of Merino wool with stronger synthetic fibers, enhancing the garment's overall durability and its ability to maintain its shape between washes.
Merino wool and synthetic blends combine the best of all worlds, offering high performance without losing shape or holding onto body odor after multiple uses between washes.
What Is The Difference Between Fabric Weights?
While fabric weights range from ultralight to expedition weight, I'll focus on the three most commonly used fabric options: light, mid, and heavy. Lightweight base layers are designed for warm weather. Think of sleeping in the desert during the summer when daytime layering isn't necessary, but nights spent under the stars bring colder temperatures. When worn against the skin as the first step of your cold-weather kit, lightweight layers can also be a great choice for high-output winter activities. Midweight layers are perhaps the most versatile options out there. These are perfect stand-alone layers for spring and fall, and they still work well as the base of your kit for resort and backcountry turns in the winter. Heavyweight layers are for those seeking a high degree of warmth above all else. These thicker tops can be difficult to layer and less versatile across seasons and activities. However, if expedition skiing or exploration features in your calendar during the coldest months of the year, it may warrant a thicker garment. The choice also depends on your personal physiology; if you know you run warm or cold, you'll want to adjust your fabric weight accordingly.
An example of a layering system. Base layer, fleece mid layer, soft shell, and down puffy. The Patagonia Capilene Air, pictured here, traps heat extremely well in a layering system but as a stand-alone layer, air cuts right thru it. Credit: Roland Mott
Are Fit and Features Important?
I recommend trying on your next base layer to select a top that fits well and sits next to your skin without limiting your range of motion. This helps prevent cold drafts and allows the thermal layer to wick moisture more effectively. As with any clothing purchase, pay attention to the product details, such as fit—regular, trim, or slim—to determine the layer's cut.
Base layers are available in a variety of different cuts; while some may feel too restrictive, oversized layers don't provide the best performance. Credit: Trish Matheny
Base layers can come with all sorts of bells and whistles these days, but they don't have to. There are many feature options, from hoods to thumb loops to longer cuts, zippers, and more, and each serves a different purpose. While our lead women's tester prefers a Merino wool blend with a 1/4 zip, hood, and thumb loops, this could be overkill if you are shopping only for an annual resort skiing trip. Things like hoods, extra zippers, lofted fabrics, and thumb loops provide additional warmth, but they also take up more space in your cold-weather kit.
Some base layer designs are feature-rich, including versatile hoods, zippered pockets, and more.
FAQs
For a base layer to do it's best work keeping you warm and dry, it should have a close, but unrestrictive fit. This allows the fibers to keep warmth close to your skin and helps wick away sweat more efficiently, as the material is better able to transfer moisture outward when it is in direct contact with your skin. A closer fit also feels better when you start piling on the top layers.
No, base layers are meant to be the first thing that goes on in your whole layering kit, as they have . However, some people may choose to wear a tank or tee under their baselayer, just in case the day warms up.
Base layer is pretty self explanitory; the function is in the name. But what do you wear over it? It depends on the season, but you can add anything from a light windbreaker or a loose overshirt, to a thick fleece, or a cozy sweater. Check out our tips on how to build a bulletproof layering system depending on the season and activity of choice.
Most of us have probably had an experience with an unbearably itchy sweater at some point or another. Thankfully, most modern base layers out there use an ultra-soft and fine-woven merino wool that has a delightful skin feel. While a few of the tops we tested had a slight itch to them, they quickly softened up after a few wears and a wash.
Some athletes and backcountry enthusiasts require the highest-performing base layers with the most modern and innovative technologies, but most consumers will find that a more affordable option easily meets their needs. Credit: Trish Matheny
Other Notable Base Layers
We've tested a lot of other base layers, and some we really liked, but unfortunately, we can't include all of them here. If none of the options above piqued your interest, or you're looking for a specific feature or fabric weight, you might want to take a peek at these other base layers.
Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight - This is a midweight, 100% wool layer we love for its high performance at an affordable price. The longer length in the arms and torso provides additional coverage, while the thumb loops create easier layering for a wool design.
Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew - Women's - The women's version of the Woolies Pro Tech is a perfect lightweight Merino wool base layer option for less cold weather and a favorite of our women's testing team for wearing under outer layers on days they were planning to work up a sweat. The design features unique, innovative Nuyarn technology that improves the efficiency of wool's performance while enhancing overall durability, and the addition of 15% nylon provides better shape retention than 100% wool options. Although some recommend sizing up, we found the slim-fitting design perfect, especially after a few washes when the fabric softened and stretched just a little. The men's version of this top is a favorite for breathability, but in the women's category, it was beat out by the slightly lighter Stio Trax hoodie for this honor.
Stio Basis PeakWool Midweight Half Zip - This layer is labeled midweight, but features one of the thicker constructions that we've tested, and at 280g/m², it nearly falls into the heavyweight category. It features one of the softest Merino-wool-blended fabrics we've tested, and of all the thicker wool designs, this is our top choice for overall warmth. We tested both the men's and women's version of this top, and both teams said it was one of the coziest options, feeling akin to your favorite hoodie, but with a sportier fit.
Burgeon Alpha Direct 90 Hoodie — When you absolutely need the lightest weight base layer that still packs a ton of warmth, this Alpha Direct top should be at the top of your wish list, especially for summertime duties where both weight and packed volume are at a premium. The lofty, technical fleece locks in warm air, while being incredibly hydrophobic, allowing perspiration to escape to help keep your dry. The lack of face and backing fabric makes it far more delicate than other options, so we only suggest it for living beneath a more durable layer, be it a wind jacket or sun shirt.
Carhartt Base Force Midweight Crew - If some of these base layers seem a little too technical and delicate, this base layer is here to deliver you a no-nonsense top that you can wear alone or underneath another layer, with the durability and comfort of your favorite casual top. The midweight, 100% polyester fabric is comfortable to wear all day with a semi-loose fit. Knowing that this top is comparatively more durable means you can use it alone on outside jobs that may ruin more performant tops. That may be the value for your money you've been seeking. This top makes a great, any day casual choice.
Conclusion
Although there are a ton of options out there, we hope this article helps you choose the best layer for your specific needs and body shape. After months of research, in-field testing, and gathering experience from multiple testers, we aim to provide specific details about the attributes of each layer to inform your decision when making the next purchase. We hope you have as much fun in these layers as we did.
