This is the yang to warmth's yin. CONS: Designed for a snug fit to keep you warm, watch sizing if you want a little extra room. When evaluating the fit of each base layer, we handed these shirts to a group of women that varied in height, weight, and body shape to offer the most objective recommendations possible. Most of the polyester tops we've tested don't offer the same "sitting around" warmth as Merino wool. However, once you get your body in motion, the layer will conceal the heat generated during your activity. So a merino wool base layer will absorb the sweat from your skin, move it away from your skin and then quickly dry. Long underwear tops that do best in this category feature slippery face fabrics, a thinner construction, and thumb loops. Our only caveat is that the fabric retains a little smell, and we have some pit stains. We also love the color selection in the tops. Youll find the top has pull-forward side seams to reduce underarm friction between layers. No sponsored content. Many are constructed with hollow polyester fibers. CONS: Although this wool base layer is very attractive worn alone, it is very thin so be fully aware that your bra and panty color might show right through. PROS: Not only is the Minus33 Ossipee base layer top warm and cozy, it is beautifully designed for a womans figure. A long underwear top, also known as a base layer, is a Are you looking for your next long underwear bottom? The Patagonia Capilene Midweight is another great layering option with built-in thumb loops that keep the arms in place, while the REI Co-op Midweight Crew has frictionless face fabric and a super stretchy design that hugs your body. We love the fitted design that is stretchy and incredibly easy to layer over and under, plus the zippered neck for optional ventilation. When looking at comparable weights, it offers more insulating warmth and breathability, which equates to better thermoregulation overall. For example, my husband loves his non-merino Under Armour Cold Gear Long Sleeve Shirt for ice fishing. A good base layer is versatile and easy to use within a layering system. This is because the wool from the merino sheep is longer and finer than from any other sheep. Lets get real being active in cold weather when you feel nice and warm is a lot of fun. And if all this technical layering is new to you, check out our helpful article on how to layer clothing for each season and how to layer in general. Arc'teryx is known for its bomber craftsmanship, and this product is no different. A base layer top has no support for the girls so most hikers and skiers will choose a supportive merino wool or bamboo bra when they are planning an active day. As a general rule of thumb, a snug fit (bit no so snug that you can stretch) is great if youll be hiking out in the cold, while a looser fit is ideal for warmer conditions. CONS: These are a little more expensive but you can tell the difference in the quality of construction so well worth the investment. Our favorite value-based purchase of all models tested is the Carhartt Base Force Heavyweight 1/4 Zip. We love how the slim fit hugged our curves and kept its shape, even after multiple adventures without washing. The frictionless face fabric slides smoothly against even the fleeciest of mid-layers, and we slid it over lightweight tops and under pretty much anything we wanted to layer over it. The raglan sleeves of the Smartwool Merino 150 mean no shoulder seams that could rub against your backpacks shoulder straps avoiding an unwanted hot spot. CONS: This is listed as a year round base layer, but seriously a 200g wool is going to be way too warm as a base layer on a summer day. The base layer tops we chose are composed of either synthetic materials, Merino wool, or a blend. This is generally the weight of a wool base layer used for winter activities. Thats because as the yarn is woven into thicker fabrics, the amount of air pockets increase which in turn means the fabric increases the insulation factor. For fit, sizing up was key for our lead tester. An avid trail runner, rock climber, and splitboarder, Trish wears base layers frequently while climbing thousands of vertical feet and on long-distance trail runs in cool to cold weather in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, her current home. So use this as a guide to get started and adjust as you learn more about your body. When it comes to bottoms, a properly snug-fitting base layer legging or tight wont require another layer of underwear. For most people who choose a synthetic fabric for their base layer, it comes down to price. Think about your house insulation, which is based on the same air pocket technology. The Smartwool Merino 250 Zip, Icebreaker Oasis 200 Crewe, and Ortovox 185 Rock'N'Wool all offer a similar level of performance here. The differences between mens and womens base layers are all around the shape of our figures. Copyright 2022 Walking The Parks | Brad and Ladona Stork, Merino Wool is Warm, Moisture Wicking and Quick Drying, Merino Wool Doesnt Get Sweat Stink You Can Wear it for Days, Merino Wool has a Natural Ability to Protect from the Suns Harmful UV Rays, Meriwool 100% merino wool midweight base layer, Meriwools 400g thermal underwear for women, Minus33 Merino Wool 809 Kenai Womens Expedition Weight Bottoms, Breathability, Moisture Wicking and Quick Drying, ICEBREAKER MERINO WOMENS OASIS BASE LAYER, Icebreaker 200 Oasis base layer womans top, If you want to get out of the rut of black and white long underwear, the. Keep in mind that most of the options listed here have different weight options. If a mid-layer is used, its purpose is to allow adding and removing layers to accommodate changes in weather. Read more about us. We take these tops trail running, backpacking, rafting, climbing, backcountry splitboarding, and hiking to determine how each performs during unique experiences in the backcountry. However, rest assured that doesnt affect the price you pay in any way. When wearing it for many days on end, without washing it, the materials didn't build up odor, nor did the layer stretch out. The fibers are full of air which will keep you cool but aren't the best choice during the summer months because of the amount of insulation. This updated review features 17 of the market's best options, tested side by side in all kinds of conditions. It also wicks well and offers durable construction, similar to a 100% synthetic top. CONS: This REI base layer will be a little warmer than the Smartwool listed above. PROS: As we mentioned, most people dont like a heavyweight top for a base layer. Most importantly, a durable top shouldn't easily succumb to snags and tears after just a few times out on the trail. The Ibex Woolies 2 crew has offset seams so your pack and shirt seams arent rubbing on top of each other and the neckline is double stitched so it wont stretch out with wear. Durability is forefront in the design with Core Spun technology wrapping merino wool around a nylon core for durability. Synthetic layers typically have more rigid fibers that, in combination, make for easy layering. The drop-tail hem gives you a little extra length which is nice to cover your backside when you strip down when you come in to sit by the fire. Heavyweight Merino wool, over 300g is rarely used in base layer tops. Youll be comfortable on the go with the flat seams and merrow stitch construction that eliminates chafing. Additionally, merino wool naturally stretches and moves with you. Even the design of the crew neck was well thought out, being a little deeper than the traditional crew so it wont show under sweaters. Ease of Layering You want your base layer to fit like a second skin so you dont feel like the little brother Randy in A Christmas Story who can hardly move after all his layers. The fabric is non-abrasive and doesnt irritate the skin and it is also great for folks with sensitive skin. We also love the wide variety of soft colors that are available in addition to your traditional black and gray. This layer features a Merino wool and Capilene polyester blend that effectively increases warmth thanks to the hood and offers excellent thermoregulation due to the innovative weave design. These links are affiliate links and if you make a purchase I may make a small commission. Terramar Women's Thermasilk Pointelle Pant. Theyve also smartly moved the shoulder seam towards your back to avoid rubbing. Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Womens Pants 100% Merino Wool Leggings Midweight Thermal Underwear Bottoms + Wool Socks, Sponsored | Based on star rating and number of customer ratings, 100% Merino Wool T-Shirt for Women's Short Sleeve Base Layers Odor Resistance for Outdoor, Merino.tech Merino Wool T-Shirt Women - 100% Merino Wool Base Layer Women Short Sleeve Tee, MERIWOOL Womens Base Layer Hoodie Lightweight Merino Wool Long Sleeve Thermal. The price is right, too it's hard to find a product this high in value, especially considering that it features the convenient (and commonly more expensive) quarter zipper on the neck and chest. The thumbholes help increase the ease of layering this hoody. Merino wool is super breathable and moderately tough, but it takes longer to dry than synthetics if it gets wet. Merino wool is exactly what you need to never have this problem again. If you're looking for more upper body layering options, we've tested fleece jackets, down jackets, and softshells. 32 DEGREES Heat Womens Ultra Soft Thermal Lightweight Baselayer Legging Pant. If you run hot, lightweight fabric is the way to go, but if you get cold easily, opt for midweight construction. A top like Smartwools Merino 150 tends to be perfect for all three seasons from spring, summer and fall. The Oasis base layer leggings fit snuggly to allow for easy layering. For example, the base layer is your primary insulation layer. However, after two years of testing, it is still functional, minus some undone stitches here and there. Always wash in cool water and never dry in a hot dryer. For stand-alone warmth, they're among the top contenders. The nylon fibers are shorter and have proven to be more durable and a better option for those needing a top for high-friction sports like canyoneering, bushwacking, or rock climbing. I prefer to not mess with scarves so this is perfect for me. Typically, the largest trade-off in this category lies in the materials used. Not only that, but you want to ensure you can throw layers on top and remove them without much effort. The Capilene Air Hoody is one of our favorite base layers thanks to its innovative 3D design which offered excellent comfort and thermoregulation. Freedom of Movement The whole reason you are outside is to be on the move, so you want your thermal underwear layer to move with you. That is when seams are laid out to allow an extra piece of fabric in those areas that move a lot that can stretch with you. While these models breathe adequately for light to moderate activity, some athletes might find them too thick and warm for intense activity. We have used and abused it while climbing, hiking, split-boarding, trail running, and canyoneering. During our testing period, we shimmied through canyons and bushwhacked through forests to see if the fabric snagged or tore. As a seasoned gear reviewer, Amber spends her time backpacking into remote places, canyoneering through slots deep in the earth, and finding cool trails to run worldwide. Related: How to Choose Base Layers for Women. Related: How We Tested Base Layer for Women. After all of this, we inspect each product to evaluate the craftsmanship. The only thing we've added to our wishlist for this top is a size adjustment. Womens bottoms are also shaped for a womans fuller hips. It might work well for cool summer evenings alone. Everyone is different. The Carhartt Base Force is a top with heavy synthetic construction and Merino wool. Durability The long strands of merino wool make it strong when woven into fabric. Let us know! This article was originally written on October 16, 2020. This piece sits closest to the skin, wicks away moisture, and ultimately keeps you warm and comfortable while tackling summits or lounging around the chalet. With Amazons great return policy, you might find it worth a little risk to save a lot of money. With a nicely layered system, the Roman Trail Outfitters also works well beneath a midweight fleece or jacket. And because they are short they tend to poke you. Theyve incorporated raglan sleeves so there is no seam rubbing at the shoulder. 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When moving from warm to cold, tops like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew and Arc'teryx Rho LT will typically adapt to their environment more readily than Merino wool. Got feedback? It offers similar performance to our synthetic competitors, showing no durability issues even after heavy use and several washes. In the first case when heat is trapped against your body you also trap your sweat and then comes that gross sticky feeling. Some were tall while others were short; some had lots of curves, while others had none. Our team assesses each product across key performance factors like comfort, warmth, and breathability. A silky base layer isnt very breathable, however, it is exceptionally soft and slips comfortably under layers. No Chaffing and Rubbing Seams Most important in eliminating raw skin is flatlock seams. The length through the arms and torso is about medium, but because it doesn't stretch, you can't pull the arms to get a little more length, which is also true for the torso. PROS: The Icebreaker 200 Oasis base layer womans top has a unique gusset under the arms that allow the shirt to easily move with you when you are really active. You can use this handy table of contents to find exactly the right ladies wool base layer for you. The Ortovox Rock'N'Wool is one of the softest wool options that we tested, featuring a lighter construction and 100% Merino wool sourced from Tasmania; we loved how soft the wool felt next to our skin. Where part of the day you need something to keep you warm (think mountain elevations or cool nights) and something that keeps you cool other parts of the day when the sun comes beating down. Good base layer bottoms should be warm but not bulky, fit snugly and wick away moisture. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. We'd utilize both layers throughout the summer months but would leave the REI Co-op Silk at home during the winter. However, you might want to wear a pair of lightweight hiking panties designed to wick away sweat for a bit of coverage when you return for the night and want to strip out of all your layers. And those gusseted arms and crotches play an important role in reducing seams rubbing tender body parts. Layers like the Kari Traa Rose and the Smartwool Intraknit Merino 200 work well because of their skin-tight fit, making sliding layers overtop easy. Long underwear never looked so good! Perhaps most notable is that the layer is incredibly versatile, functioning as more of a midweight warmth, thanks to the hood option and 3D knit weave technology, but within a lightweight layer. Yuk! How many times have you started hiking, only to start sweating and then shivering once you slow your pace? Once we complete our field testing, we evaluate the durability of each layer, noting any tears or snags. If possible, try a few garments on before buying them to make sure that they fit perfectly. First, a base layer provides an insulation layer. Dont get me wrong, there are some pretty amazing non-wool base layers available. We wear them everywhere we go and have tested them across the world, from the high glaciers of Alaska to the rainy and cool landscapes of Iceland. In our evaluations, tops with a stretchier and more voluminous fit proved to be the most versatile. The touch of nylon in both the top and the Spruces base layer bottoms results in a very durable layer that will hold up well with many uses. The Smartwool Merino 250 has a loosely knit fabric design but thicker fabrics than either the Oasis or Rock'N'Wool. Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Women 100% Merino Wool Lightweight, Midweight Long Sleeve Thermal Shirts + Wool Socks, MERIWOOL Womens Base Layer 100% Merino Wool Midweight Long Sleeve Thermal Shirt. The slim fit of the 200 g/m Merino sport yarn offers just enough stretch to increase comfort but also holds its shape even after many days out without a wash. We also love the fact that Merino wool is 100% biodegradable and it will naturally decompose back into the earth when disposed of. Considering all this, shop the best base layers for men you can buy in a range of styles. BONUS: For a limited time Merino.tech is including a pair of merino wool socks with each purchase. One that holds in your natural body heat. It's no wonder it offers some of the best value of tops tested. When temperatures really drop, these are your best bet. However, it's also worth considering the long-term value of synthetic tops like the Arc'teryx Rho Lt. Its superior craft and quality lead to season after season of use, which reduces its total cost over time. Merino wool clothing lasts practically forever when given proper care. While ascending granite rock faces for multiple pitches, our testers loved how well the Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino was able to keep us warm in the sun as well as cool in the shade. If you need bottoms that will hold up by themselves, youll want to look at some of the top leggings made of nylon and polyester. If not properly cared for merino wool clothing items will most likely shrink. Read review: Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Quarter Zip. Also check out our Guide to the Best Winter Hiking Hats to keep super warm. Once you have found the best womens merino wool base layer for you, it will bring a whole new dimension to your hiking and you will wonder how you ever coped without it! This pair provides great range of motion and warmth for hitting the slopes or a tough trail. CONS: Im disappointed that these thermal pants dont come in larger sizes. And as much as we love the splash of color in the band, you might find it rubbing if worn with a really snug top layer. hese shirts are cut specifically for a ladys shape so order the sizes you normally order for fashion clothing. The Smartwool Intraknit Merino 200 is quite notable here. Another interesting characteristic of Merino wool is its natural antibacterial nature. When we chose the Carhartt Base Force Heavyweight 1/4 Zip as part of our testing fleet, we expected the strong durability and functionality that this manufacturer is known for. PROS: The Ibex Woolies 2 are incredibly comfortable to wear, with a very soft finish that you will love feeling against your skin. Women who dont like tops that hug the neck will love the alternate choices of the Icebreaker Oasis Top that is offered also in a V-neck and a scoop neck. Our testers love the well-engineered knit design as well as the strategically placed ventilation panels. Youll find tips for your adventures, for camping and for hiking to help you. The Roman Outfitters is a little warmer, providing a wider range of thermoregulation, but it also vents well due to its loosely woven fabrics. All are great options in this category. A mans top has a rather straight shape while a quality womans top will have seaming to allow for your bust and hips. After spending over a decade in the Tetons, Trish knows what she's looking for in base layer performance. Generally speaking, the denser the Merino wool fabric, the warmer it will be. Read review: Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody. Enjoy it while hiking, running, and more. Merino Wool base layers tend to run almost twice the price of high-quality synthetic womens base layer tops. However, if it is bitterly cold and windy you might want to grab a pair of thermal underwear bottoms at this higher rating. The arms are long and can be held when layering. The Kari Traa has a tightly-knit face fabric that doesn't easily snag. We also evaluate how the fabrics feel next to our skin after several days of wear without washing, so we can determine whether or not the feel of the fabric changes over time. PROS: This Backcountry exclusive Spruces base layer is really smart. If you have a new merino wool shirt that feels a little bit itchy, wash it in cool water to remove any of the small broken strands that occasionally happen in the production process.