{"id":1315,"date":"2021-09-20T14:54:26","date_gmt":"2021-09-20T14:54:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.northwestoutlet.com\/blog\/?p=1315"},"modified":"2023-02-27T11:34:57","modified_gmt":"2023-02-27T11:34:57","slug":"hiking-base-layers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.northwestoutlet.com\/blog\/hiking-base-layers\/","title":{"rendered":"How to pick a Base Layer for Fall\/Winter Hiking"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you have ever been shopping for outdoor clothing, you are probably aware of the clothing layering system to help you to keep warm, dry, and comfortable when moving through varying conditions, allowing you to add or remove layers depending on how you feel and the conditions you\u2019re in. The base layer is what goes directly on your skin and determines your comfort. We are breaking down the different types and help you find the one that works best for you.<\/p>\n

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Base layers and thermal clothing are typically split into two types \u2013 tops and bottoms \u2013 that you can wear under another item, as part of a layering system, or even on their own.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>

How do Base Layers Work?<\/h2><\/div>

Your body regulates its temperature by sweating. The sweat evaporates from your skin, which takes a lot of energy and cools the surface it evaporates from rapidly. In cold conditions or in a situation where rapid cooling of the skin is not welcome, sweat can evaporate from the base layer instead of the skin. As a second skin, your base layer is there to take that very efficient sweating mechanism that is meant to cool your body when active, and slow it down, allowing the body to cool in safer conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Insulation<\/h3><\/div>

Base layers will indeed help you keep warm, but insulation is not their main purpose. Heavyweight base layers are thicker, but as they do not wicker the moisture away that effectively. Regardless of what the marketers say, the purpose of a base layer is not to trap heat around your body. If you need more insulation, that\u2019s the role of your insulating layer, or the mid-layer, that goes on top of the lightweight or the midweight base layer.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Wicking moisture<\/h3><\/div>

Any wicking material is good in terms of keeping you dry and not letting you get cold, just like with sleeping bags.<\/a> The choice of material is a bit more subjective, and it depends on your personal preference.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Materials<\/h2><\/div>

Moisture conducts heat 25 times faster than air, so if it can\u2019t escape the surface of your skin, you\u2019ll become cold very quickly. The base layer\u2019s main function is to wick sweat away from your skin and towards the outer fabrics, helping you to regulate your body temperature.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Synthetic<\/h3><\/div>

There are all kinds of synthetic materials and blends that are used for base layers, though they are largely made from nylon, polyester and polyester blends. Synthetic base layers have excellent moisture-wicking properties and drying time, and some blends are very affordable. They are also durable and resistant to abrasions.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Under Armor ColdGear<\/h4><\/div>
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Buy now<\/span><\/a><\/div>

Under Armor Cold Gear Mock is a perfect top for cold weather. It can be worn as a base and layered over to keep worm in extreme cold, or wear it as a top, for hiking or running in milder weather. Built with dual-layer construction for extra protection against the cold. A soft-brushed interior circulates body heat to keep you warm and a sleek exterior to protect you against the elements. Made of 87% Polyester and 13% Elastane blend, it wicks moisture to keep sweat weighing you down and helping you regulate body temperature.<\/p>\n

One of the greatest advantages of Under Armor Baselayer collection<\/a> is that all items are extremely comfortable, and this top is no exception. Its 4-way stretch construction moves with you,\u00a0 giving you a second-skin fit along with the signature UA performance.<\/p>\n<\/div>

However, there is one well-known downside of synthetics, and it is the fact that they stink, literally. \u00a0Polyester is great at soaking up sweat and then quickly getting rid of it through evaporation. However, any of the oily sweat compounds and already-digested odorous compounds that pass through the clothing cling to polyester fibers and after a while, it starts to smell bad. Some manufacturers try to treat synthetic fibers with an anti-microbial coating. However, it doesn\u2019t usually live up to its promises and will wash out.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Merino Wool<\/h3><\/div>

Merino wool is a material that has many benefits. It is natural, very comfortable, lightweight, and feels amazing against the skin. Merino wool can hold up to 30% of its weight in water, before feeling wet and clammy. It is good for most activities and conditions, but it really excels in colder temperatures. It does not dry out as fast as some of the other fabrics, and, being more delicate compared to other options, it does not hold up that well to the wear marks.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Items made of 100% Merino Wool are not cheap, but luckily, there are blends that still have similar properties, but for the fraction of the price of pure Merino Wool items.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Minus33 100% Merino Base Layers<\/h4><\/div>
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Minus33 is a brand<\/a> of reasonably priced wool clothing for outdoor enthusiasts.\u00a0 They offer a selection of crews and bottoms made of 100% Merino wool for men and women. Even though they are inexpensive they perform amazingly in hot and cold environment, and are great for a slew of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing or hunting. The Minus33 base layers provide a looser fit, not quite skin-tight. Still, their will do a great job in keeping you warm and dry throughout the day.<\/p>\n<\/div>

See more Base Layers by Minus33 <\/span><\/a><\/div>

Silk<\/h3><\/div>

Silk is great for cooler weather outings with lower levels of physical activity. Base layers made of silk are nice because they are very thin and add zero bulk to your equipment. They are rarely used by hikers as the fabric hasn\u2019t yet gained wide popularity. Just like Merino wool, silk absorbs a lot of moisture, but as the moisture gets locked away inside its structure it doesn\u2019t feel clammy against the skin. Silk also dries fast and offers great moisture-wicking performance. It is naturally antimicrobial and feels pleasant against the skin. The downside of silk is its price<\/p>\n<\/div>

Fit<\/h2><\/div>

Fit is almost as important as the material of the base layer itself. The base layer needs to be form-fitting and tight. Generally, a snug fit ensures that your moisture is quickly wicked away. For warm weather, the guidance has always been to wear looser-fit clothing to have more breathability. However, some brands are making designs that spread out the moisture and the heat, so you can wear a tight fit even in warm weather if that is what you like.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Weight<\/h2><\/div>

Depending on the weight of the material, there are three categories \u2013 lightweight, midweight and heavyweight. Lightweight base layers are thinner, they wicker away moisture quicker and are the fastest to dry.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

Ultralightweight or Microweight<\/h3><\/div>

It wouldn\u2019t be backpacking if there wasn\u2019t an ultralight category, right? Ultralight base layers are most appropriate for warm to moderately cool conditions, meant to provide some warmth and protection while quickly wicking away sweat and moisture.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"UA<\/span><\/div>

UA Women’s ColdGear Base 2.0 Crew<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>

Buy now<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Lightweight<\/h3><\/div>

A slight step up in thickness, lightweight base layers still provide excellent wicking speed while offering warmth suitable for cool to moderately cold temperatures. These base layers (along with ultralight layers) are also the most suitable for high-intensity activities, though you may want to pair them with an additional mid-layer if the temperatures are expected to drop.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"under<\/span><\/div>

UA Women’s ColdGear Base 2.0 Leggings<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>

Buy now<\/span><\/a><\/div>
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Midweight<\/h3><\/div>

When the temperatures really start to drop, midweight base layers will provide warmth and light wind protection. They still offer significant wicking capabilities, though due to their thicker insulation, you will likely start sweating quickly if you do much more than moderately intensive activities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Carhartt Base Force Midweight Crew<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>

Buy now<\/span><\/a><\/div>
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Heavyweight<\/h3><\/div>

The thickest of the base layers, these are meant to lock in heat and keep it there. While they will still wick moisture away more effectively than, say, blue jeans or a down jacket, it takes more time for water to work its way through the amount of material in these layers. Thus, heavyweight base layers should typically be reserved for stationary or low intensity activities. If you are going to be in low temperatures, high winds, and\/or frigid weather conditions, these should be your go-to layers for camp.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

\"Polarmax<\/span><\/div>

Polarmax Women’s Core 4.0 Zip Mock<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>

Buy now<\/span><\/a><\/div>
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In theory the thicker the layer, the better insulating properties. Because of the marketing, you might think that you would need a heavyweight layer for cold weather, but that is not the case. While you might get warmer insulation, you lose moisture-wicking ability. Ideally what you are looking for in a base layer is just a thin layer that regulates your body temperature by wicking the moisture away.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

Tops and Bottoms for Different Activities<\/h2><\/div>
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Casual Hiking<\/strong><\/p>\n

When the temperature’s cool to moderate for a light hike you should go with warm and form-fitting base layer. All of the traditional materials will work, so go with the one that make you the most comfortable.<\/p>\n

Extreme Adventures<\/strong><\/p>\n

High-intensity physical activities cause you to sweat a lot, so try to stick with wool as your go-to base layer during intense cold weather outdoor expeditions.<\/a> Wool has a natural odor resistance, which is a good thing, especially on long trips. The combination of thick insulation and breathable absorption makes wool the perfect option for keeping dry while you’re staying warm.<\/p>\n

Backpacking<\/strong><\/p>\n

Finding a base layer for backpacking<\/a> means identifying a material that will match the versatility of your adventure. If you expect to be in a wide range of climates, choose a material that is similarly suited – both synthetic and wool bases are preferred. Disregard your material’s breathability, as the backpack is likely to trap in sweat regardless, but consider comfort and weight for the long treks. Wool’s ability to absorb large amounts of moisture without becoming noticeably damp makes it the most welcoming option on extended trips.<\/p>\n

Being the piece of gear that determines how comfortable you will be on your outdoor adventure, a good base layer is worth investing in.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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