A Guide to Base Layers and Thermal Wear

A Guide to Base Layers and Thermal Wear

If you’re planning on heading outdoors for hiking, running or other activities during the cold weather this year then a base layer will be essential to help keep you warm and comfortable.baselayer But what exactly is a baselayer and which is the best option for you? Winfields has a complete guide to base layers and thermal wear to help you choose the perfect garment for your outdoor adventure.baselayer

The main purpose of a base layer is to wick away moisture, which can easily be trapped under a thick outer layer.baselayer It does this by passing sweat along the fibres of the fabric and allowing it to evaporate. This allows your body to regulate its temperature and keeps you dry – and as a result, more comfortable.

In addition to absorbing and releasing moisture, base layers are designed to be breathable.baselayer This means they should be made from a material that can allow your sweat vapour to pass through the fibres and evaporate, helping you to stay cool and comfortable during an activity in cold conditions. This is why synthetic materials such as polyester are so popular for base layers, while natural fibres like merino wool are also used in some designs.

As well as being breathable, good quality base layers will also be designed for flexible movement.baselayer They should fit closely to the body like a second skin, following the natural contours of your movements without being too tight or restrictive. They will also have flatlock seams to prevent chafing during an activity and they’ll be soft against the skin.

A quality base layer will also be fast-drying, meaning that even if you do get wet or covered in sweat while out and about it should quickly dry allowing you to continue your adventure comfortably.baselayer This is again because base layers are largely made from quick-drying materials such as synthetics or merino wool.

Another consideration is that your base layer should be odour-resistant.baselayer This will depend on the material you choose, but most base layers will have odour-control technology such as Polygiene StayFresh built in. This is a technology that works to control odours by stopping the growth of bacteria on your base layer.

As the name suggests, a baselayer is your first layer of clothing that you put on before any other garments.baselayer It will be the closest to your body, so it’s important that it is comfortable and odour-resistant. It should be lightweight and easy to pack in a bag or pocket, as it’ll likely be the first layer you reach for when you head out for a hike, run or other outdoor adventure.