Choosing the right layers when on the slopes or taking part in any outdoor activity is crucial. A base layer is necessary for maintaining the right body temperature and will wick away moisture (often caused by sweat) from the skin to stop dampness and cold setting in.
The term base layer can refer to both tops and bottoms.
Different types of fabrics work in different ways to keep your body at the optimum temperature when out in the cold or when exercising. Synthetic fabrics and merino wool are the most common fabrics used for base layers.
In addition to that, cotton base layers are soft, breathable and cosy, which makes them the perfect option for everyday wear, walks, or simply relaxing outdoors. They aren’t designed for intense activity, but they will keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Synthetic base layers will largely be made from polyester and polyester blends. These base layers will keep the wearer warm when combined with ski wear.
Polyester base layers are quick drying, lightweight and will wick away moisture from the skin to keep you dry. Our Talus base layers are also made with IsoTherm fabric which offers heat retention to keep you warm.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | Not naturally antibacterial |
| High wicking | Not as warm as merino |
| Quick drying | |
| Relatively cheap |
Merino wool is a high-quality wool that is lightweight, breathable, and naturally antibacterial. It offers exceptional heat retention for extreme cold and helps regulate body temperature.
The tiny air pockets in the wool help to draw away excess heat from the body which prevents you overheating when you do prolonged vigorous exercise. This means that base layers made out of merino wool can be a good choice if the weather is hotter than planned – for example, skiing in Spring.
One of the best things about merino base layers is that they retain heat and their thermal properties even when wet. Great if you get snow up your jacket from a fall!
The naturally wicking and anti bacterial properties of merino wool also help to keep skin dry and mean a merino base layer can be worn for extended periods of time without smelling too badly! They can easily be used for a week long ski break, giving you even more space in your case.
| Pros | Cons |
| Warmer than synthetic- retains thermal properties even when wet | More expensive than synthetic |
| Soft feel against skin | May not wick as well as synthetic |
| Naturally antibacterial | |
| Breathable |
First time skiers in a lesson will be standing and less active, so a polyester base layer is ideal. This would also be suitable for milder resorts like Bulgaria, or at warmer times of the year too. It tends to not be as cold in December or April, however, January and February are traditionally the coldest/windiest months.
First time boarders will be constantly up and down to stand up/fall over and bending to fasten and unfasten bindings so a thermal that works more in tune with the body like a merino is more suited. It’s likely you’ll also get a bit sweaty so an anti-bacterial baselayer will keep you smelling sweet!
Active skiers would also benefit from the properties of a merino base layer as would those heading to colder resorts like Canada and Scandinavia.
A base layer should be tight fitting so it traps air next to the skin and insulates the body from the cold. It’s best to buy base layer clothing in the size you normally wear as they are made slightly smaller with this in mind.
Layering clothes traps air against the skin to keep you warm, layers are more effective than one single thick layer. The layering system consists of multiple layers – a base layer, midlayer and outerwear.
Base layers wick away moisture from the skin and control your temperature while midlayers trap your bodies warmth. Your outerwear then protects you from the elements like snow, wind and rain. All of these layers together will ensure you keep the cold out.
Our TechTherm Heat Technology classification system makes it super simple and easy to choose the right warmth level based on your activity and environment. Each of our base layers will fall under one of the following three categories:
If you’re planning on popping down to one of our stores to shop for base layers, you’re in luck. Simply look for the bright orange and red signage and wall displays showcasing our IsoTherm Extra Warm Thermals (available in men’s, women’s, and kids’).
What’s more, our range is conveniently displayed in dedicated sections at select stores.
Whether you’re after a lightweight synthetic layer for active days or extra warmth for colder weather, our full selection is neatly organised and easy to browse.
