Best Baselayers of 2023

As your next-to-skin article of clothing, a baselayer plays a fundamental role in pulling moisture away from the body and regulating core temperature. It’s far easier to justify purchasing a nice down jacket, but a baselayer can be just as important for activities like skiing, hiking, and climbing. To start, avoid cotton (like the old adage “cotton kills”). You’ll need a fabric that will keep you warm when wet and dry out quickly, and merino wool and polyester are the most common choices. Below are our picks for the best baselayers of winter 2023. For more information, see our baselayer comparison table and buying advice below the picks.
 

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Our Team's Baselayer Picks

• Best Overall Baselayer: Smartwool Classic Thermal 1/4 Zip
• Best Synthetic Baselayer: Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew
• Best Budget Baselayer: Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew
• Best Heavyweight Baselayer for the Cold: Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck
• Best Lightweight Baselayer for Mild Weather: Smartwool Classic All-Season
• Most Durable Baselayer: NW Alpine Black Spider Hoody

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Best Overall Baselayer

1. Smartwool Classic Thermal 1/4 Zip ($115)

Material: 100% merino wool
Category: Midweight
Weight: 10 oz.
What we like: Extremely soft, warm, and resists water and stink.
What we don’t: Pricey and requires good care to last.

Smartwool has been the industry leader in baselayers for years, and merino wool is the most sought-after material for the job. Made with 100% merino (many of the baselayers below are blends or synthetics), the Classic Thermal 1/4 Zip is the whole package: It’s warm, super soft against the skin, resists moisture, and doesn’t hold stink like the polyester options on the list. All in all, it’s a great baselayer for skiing and other winter sports, and even has a UPF 50+ rating for use as an outer layer in more mild weather. Based on the popularity of the Smartwool Classic Thermal, it’s made in a number of versions, including a Crew ($110) and Hoodie ($140). But when active, we appreciate the ability to lower the zip and regulate heat.

The Smartwool is the full package, but merino wool isn’t cheap: You can save with one of the blends or polyester baselayers below, including Patagonia’s popular Capilene. That said, we far prefer merino for its coziness, temperature regulation, ability to insulate when wet, and resistance to smell. With polyester, you’ll likely have to wash and change your baselayers quite frequently, whereas wool keeps performance high over the course of a multi-day backcountry or ski trip. The primary downside to consider is merino’s lack of durability—particularly if you frequently throw it in the dryer—but it’s worth the tradeoff for the high levels of comfort and performance. Among the growing cadre of merino options, we think Smartwool’s Classic Thermal provides the best balance of versatility, quality, and value.
See the Men's Smartwool Classic Thermal 1/4 Zip  See the Women's Classic Thermal 1/4 Zip

 

Best Synthetic Baselayer

2. Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew ($79)

Material: 100% recycled polyester
Category: Light/midweight
Weight: 6.2 oz.
What we like: Cheaper and more durable than merino wool.
What we don’t: Not quite as soft.

Choosing synthetics over merino wool has clear upsides, the most notable being cost and durability. For around $40 less than the Smartwool above (the comparable Zip-Neck version is $26 less), the polyester Capilene Midweight by Patagonia offers similar warmth and moisture-wicking capabilities. And it likely will last for many seasons—we have Capilene tops that are multiple years old and counting despite heavy use. And while synthetics aren't blameless when it comes to their environmental impact (they often rely on fossil fuels for production and can leach plastics into the water with each washing), it helps that Patagonia crafts the Capilene Midweight with 100% recycled materials.

What do you sacrifice by going with a synthetic baselayer? Polyester is decently comfortable but not as soft against the skin, and it doesn’t regulate body temperature or repel odor quite as well as wool. This doesn’t mean that your Capilene will get stinky super quickly—and Patagonia has made strides in this area with an anti-odor HeiQ Fresh treatment—but you will find yourself putting it through the wash more often. But wool can be finicky and not everyone wants to spend $100 or more on a baselayer, which is why we love Patagonia’s Capilene line. For more warmth, try the Capilene Thermal Weight.
See the Men's Patagonia Capilene  See the Women's Patagonia Capilene

 

Best Budget Baselayer

3. Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew ($45)

Material: 100% polypropylene
Category: Lightweight
Weight: 5.1 oz.
What we like: Wicks moisture well and a great value.
What we don’t: Not as warm as other baselayers on this list.

There’s a lot to like about this lightweight active baselayer from Helly Hansen. At just $45, it’s one of the cheapest options on this list yet still will keep you dry and decently warm in most conditions. The headliner is the Lifa fabric, which is made from Polypropylene and specializes in wicking moisture away from the skin (it does so much better than polyester). Along with a nice athletic fit, the Lifa Stripe is great for active skiers and other high-output activities like climbing and hiking.

The downside of Polypro compared to polyester or nylon is that it isn’t as warm. The Lifa Stripe Crew falls into our lightweight category, meaning that it provides some insulation but requires a good midlayer or insulated shell in cold conditions. It’s worth the tradeoff for high-output use, but if you prefer warmth over breathability, check out REI’s budget-oriented polyester lineup (including the $40 Lightweight Crew below). And it’s worth noting that Helly Hansen now offers the midweight Lifa Merino Crew ($100), which features a merino wool exterior and Polypro lining.
See the Men's Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe  See the Women's Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe

 

Best Heavyweight Baselayer for the Cold

4. Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck ($119)

Material: 100% polyester
Category: Heavyweight
Weight: 10.2 oz.
What we like: Warm for the weight yet still breathable and quick-drying.
What we don’t: Too warm for most baselayer applications.

Patagonia’s R1 collection has long been a staple of their lineup, and the R1 Air more recently joined the team with a highly technical design. Using hollow-core yarns and zig-zag patterning, the 100%-recycled polyester fabric traps heat yet allows air to pass from the inside out, resulting in a breathable yet warm layer that’s impressively lightweight. And when you do start to sweat, the polyester effectively wicks moisture and dries out quickly. Patagonia rounds out the build with a functional 1/4-zip design to trap warmth or release excess heat, sleek off-shoulder seams, and a small zippered chest pocket. It all adds up to a wildly modern, high-performance baselayer and one of the warmest offerings here.

Technically considered a fleece, the R1 Air toes the line between our baselayer and midlayer categories. As a baselayer, it’s decidedly heavyweight, which means you’ll want to save it for particularly cold winter days. On the other hand, it provides less warmth than the 100% wool Woolx Glacier Long Sleeve Crew below, although the focus on breathability boosts its appeal for high-output pursuits (and it’s around $30 cheaper to boot). Patagonia also offers its latest R1 Air in both a Crew and a Full-Zip Hoody version, the latter of which is best suited for midlayer use.
See the Men's Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck  See the Women's Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck

 

Best Lightweight Baselayer for Mild Weather

5. Smartwool Classic All-Season Long Sleeve ($85)

Materials: 87% merino wool, 13% nylon
Category: Lightweight
Weight: 6 oz.
What we like: A great option for cool days and summer nights.
What we don’t: Thin materials require more care.

We’ve already listed the Smartwool Classic Thermal as our top pick, but we’d be remiss not to include another stellar baselayer in the Classic All-Season Long Sleeve. The build quality is similar: Smartwool adds 13% nylon to the mix for a boost in durability, the weight goes down significantly to 6 ounces (the lack of the zipper matters here too), and you get the same minimalist seams for comfort. Compared to the warm Classic Thermal above, the All-Season is lighter in weight and ideal for uses like spring skiing, shoulder season hiking, and cool summer nights. You’ll feel like you are wearing much less baselayer, but the boost in coziness and moisture-wicking capabilities are still there.

It’s worth noting that Smartwool also offers its techy Intraknit Thermal Merino, which splits the difference between the Classic All-Season here and the Classic Thermal above. This performance piece is nearly half polyester/elastane (it’s 53% merino), incorporates low-profile seams, and has body mapping with mesh panels throughout for improved ventilation. We haven’t yet had the chance to give the Intraknit baselayer an extended test, but it’s an intriguing option for high-output activities in cold weather when you want a layer that’s both warm and exceptionally breathable. But for mild summer temperatures, the Classic All-Season is $40 less and likely all the insulation you’ll need. For another lightweight merino option with added durability and stretch (but less wool), check out Outdoor Research’s Alpine Onset Merino Crew.
See the Men's Smartwool Classic All-Season LS  See the Women's Smartwool Classic All-Season LS

 

Most Durable Baselayer

6. NW Alpine Black Spider Hoody ($135)

Materials: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
Category: Midweight
Weight: 11 oz.
What we like: Durable enough to be worn as an outer layer.
What we don’t: Expensive for polyester.

NW Alpine certainly isn’t a household name, but this small Portland, Oregon, company designs and constructs alpine climbing apparel on par with the best. Although they only make a handful of items, each of their products is a study in quality over quantity. And their Black Spider Hoody is one of our favorite baselayers: It’s comfortable, warm and breathable, and has unmatched durability. In fact, we’ve put ours through six years of climbing abuse—much of the time without a jacket over top—and it has yet to develop any holes or tears.

All that said, the Black Spider Hoody won’t earn you too many style points: It lacks the odor resistance of merino and is available in only a few simple colors. Furthermore, $135 is a hefty price tag for a polyester baselayer, and it can often be hard to find in stock online or in stores. However, the most impressive durability of any baselayer we’ve worn—combined with features like an under-the-helmet hood and chest zip—set the Black Spider Hoody apart as a highly functional and long-lasting performance piece. 
See the Men's NW Alpine Black Spider  See the Women's NW Alpine Black Spider

 

Best of the Rest

7. Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight Quarter Zip ($80)

Materials: 84% merino wool, 16% nylon
Category: Midweight
Weight: 8.3 oz.
What we like: Fantastic price for a high-quality merino baselayer.
What we don’t: Not the most breathable merino option here.

A family-run operation based out of California’s Eastern Sierra, Ridge Merino offers a small collection of high-quality yet affordable merino wool baselayers. The Aspect Midweight is the best all-rounder in their lineup—its 180g/m² thickness is just right for mild conditions or high-output activities, and it’s so soft and cozy that we can’t help but wear it around the house, too. What’s more, Ridge added a small dose of nylon to the construction, which helps a great deal with durability (we’ve also tested their 100%-merino heavyweight Inversion and found it much more vulnerable to forming holes). To top it all off, the Aspect Quarter Zip is just $80 (the crew is $75), making it one of the most affordable merino wool baselayers on the market.

Along with using a really high-quality wool blend, Ridge Merino has also done a great job paying attention to the finer details: The Aspect features well-designed thumb loops that disappear into the cuffs, flatlocked seams for a sleek appearance, and a long cut that doesn’t ride up. What you don’t get is any added ventilation or breathability measures (aside from the zip neck), which cross-country skiers, winter runners, and other endurance or uphill athletes will appreciate (the Smartwool Intraknit and Odlo below are great alternatives). But added up, we’re very impressed with the Ridge Merino Aspect, which offers a slight step up from Smartwool’s Classic All-Season above in terms of warmth. Finally, it’s worth noting that it also comes in a high neck version (akin to a turtleneck) for women, which offers an extra dose of coziness. 
See the Men's Aspect Midweight Quarter Zip  See the Women's Aspect Midweight Quarter Zip

 

8. Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody ($159)

Materials: 51% merino wool, 49% polyester
Category: Midweight
Weight: 6.9 oz.
What we like: Scuba-style hood is one of our favorite designs; excellent warmth for the weight. 
What we don’t: Lacking in abrasion resistance.

Patagonia’s Capilene collection is legendary in the world of baselayers, running the gamut from thick, thermal-weight designs to lightweight T-shirts and long-sleeve layers for hiking. The midweight Capilene Air Hoody is a real standout in the lineup, merging functional warmth with a thoughtful feature set and nice sustainability slant. We love the scuba-style hood in particular: It adds an incredible amount of warmth, offers great coverage without restricting vision, and has a low-profile shape that easily slides under a climbing or ski helmet. On blustery and cold winter days when you really need to hunker down in your layers, it's a nice alternative to a balaclava that's much easier to pull on and off.

What’s not to like with the Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody? First, despite the healthy amount of polyester in the construction, we developed multiple holes and runs on our hoody in a matter of weeks. We also found that the knit-like exterior is noticeably permeable to wind, and the fabric tends to pill and act as a catch-all for hair, fuzz, and more. In other words, the Capilene Air works best under another layer or two. But with great odor resistance, impressive wicking and drying properties, and one of the warmest, coziest hoods we know of, the Capilene Air is a fantastic next-to-skin piece. If you don’t plan to utilize the hood, it’s also sold in a standard crew-neck version that will save you $20, and the matching bottoms are equally cozy and light.
See the Men's Capilene Air Hoody  See the Women's Capilene Air Hoody

 

9. Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crew ($105)

Material: 100% merino wool
Category: Midweight
Weight: 11.8 oz.
What we like: Softer against the skin than Smartwool.
What we don’t: Slim fit and dense weave lags behind in breathability.

The Oasis Crew from Icebreaker is as versatile as any baselayer on this list. It’s made from 100% merino wool, is super soft, and has a performance fit that works well for skiing and cool-weather hiking. And because of the clean styling and plethora of colorways and designs, you easily can wear it as a standalone piece.

If you’re considering the Oasis, it’s a head-to-head matchup with the Smartwool Classic Thermal above. Both models are made from 100% merino, and the prices are similar (the zip-neck version of the Oasis is also $115). Both are comfortable, wick moisture well, and don’t trap odor like synthetics. That said, we give the slight edge to the Smartwool because the dense weave of the Icebreaker’s fabric doesn’t release hot air quite as efficiently. Despite having a lighter fabric weight (200 vs. 250g/m²), it can start to feel muggy when you’re working up a sweat. On the flip side, the Icebreaker wins out in next-to-skin softness, making it the better option for those that prioritize comfort above all else.
See the Men's Icebreaker 200 Oasis  See the Women's Icebreaker 200 Oasis

 

 10. Odlo Performance Wool Warm Long Sleeve ($100)

Materials: 52% merino, 29% polyester, 13% polyamide, 6% elastane
Category: Lightweight
Weight: 6.6 oz. 
What we like: Snug fit and great ventilation is ideal for active pursuits.
What we don’t: Not our first choice for resort skiing.

Odlo emerges from Norway with a lineup of thoughtful baselayers built for a range of activities and conditions. Our go-to for ski touring last winter, their Performance Wool Warm Long Sleeve blends merino wool with stretchy polyester, polyamide, and elastane for a long sleeve that excels in mild temperatures and while building heat. You get great breathability thanks to the shirt’s mapped ventilation zones, and we’ve found moisture wicking to be top-notch. Further, the performance-oriented fit is snug yet stretchy, and Odlo even eliminated seams along the shoulders for comfort while carrying a pack. To top it off, build quality is excellent, with both our top and bottoms holding up great after a couple months of frequent use. 

While we love the Performance Wool Warm Long Sleeve for high-output activities like ski touring and cross-country skiing, it’s less appealing as a resort baselayer. You can go a lot warmer with a midweight option like the Smartwool Classic Thermal above, and many will appreciate a more relaxed fit for lunch or après at the lodge. On the other hand, we're big fans of the stylish patterning along the torso and sleeves (and it’s also available in a half-zip version). Added up, we really like what Odlo has done with the Performance Wool Warm Long Sleeve, making it one of our favorite merino blends here. For warm-weather adventuring, Odlo also makes the Kinship Light Long Sleeve, which uses soft Tencel fibers (sustainably sourced from wood) rather than wool.
See the Men's Performance Wool Warm LS  See the Women's Performance Wool Warm LS

 

11. Arc’teryx Rho Hybrid Crew Neck ($115)

Materials: Body: 100% polyester; panels: 87% merino wool, 13% nylon
Category: Lightweight
Weight: 5.6 oz.
What we like: Functional performance slant in a stretchy, good-looking package.
What we don’t: Expensive and not particularly cozy.

Arc’teryx places a premium on high performance, which shows in their baselayer collection. Their Rho series is designed to keep you warm in a variety of winter and shoulder-season activities, from LT (“lightweight”) models to the Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck. Our favorite is the mid-range Rho Hybrid Crew Neck, which is tailor-made for working hard in cold weather. The key here is Arc’teryx’s strategic mix of materials, including stretchy and durable polyester along the torso and panels of odor-resistant merino wool in sweat-prone areas like the underarms and sides. Combined with a moderately trim fit that effectively traps warmth and makes it easy to layer overtop (the smooth exterior certainly helps), the Rho Hybrid Crew Neck stands out as a thoughtfully built baselayer for heart-pumping winter activities like snowshoeing, hiking, and ski touring.

As with most Arc’teryx products, however, the Rho Hybrid Crew Neck doesn’t come cheap. $115 is a high price to pay for a mostly polyester baselayer, and we found its comfort to be only average (it seems Arc'teryx prioritized durability over all-out coziness). For those who prefer the raised collar and temperature regulation of a zipped top, Arc’teryx does offer a 1/2 Zip variation, although we wish they had included a chest pocket (like you get on the NW Alpine and Patagonia R1 Air above). Finally, if you have a tendency to run cold or want a winter-ready baselayer, the aforementioned Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck offers a heavy dose of Polartec insulation and tall collar at an impressively low weight—almost a half-pound less than the all-merino Woolx below.
See the Men's Arc'teryx Rho Hybrid Crew Neck

 

12. REI Co-op Merino 185 Half-Zip ($90)

Material: 100% merino wool
Category: Midweight
What we like: A soft, stretchy, and well-made baselayer. 
What we don’t: Pricey for an REI product. 

Of all of REI Co-op’s in-house products, their merino baselayer is one of our favorites. It’s right on the same playing field as heavy hitters like Smartwool and Icebreaker, which is quite a feat given that those companies specialize in wool layering pieces. The Co-op recently updated their Merino Midweight Half-Zip design (200g/m²) to the Merino 185. It drops a little warmth with the thinner construction, but like its predecessor, the Merino 185 is soft, has a good amount of stretch, and wicks moisture effectively. And most importantly, it can handle everything from backpacking to cross-country skiing with ease.

Unlike many REI products, the Merino 185 Half-Zip doesn’t come at much of a discount, which is why we have it ranked here. The 185g/m² thickness is a noticeable step down in warmth from Icebreaker's popular 200 Oasis Crew but only $15 less, although you do get a front zip and higher collar on the REI. And for $25 more, you can get the legendary Smartwool Classic Thermal above, our top pick, which is slightly thicker and much warmer at 250g/m². We really like the REI and have had nothing but positive experiences with it thus far, but we’re not ready to dethrone the Smartwool just yet.
See the Men's REI Merino 185 Half-Zip  See the Women's REI Merino 185 Half-Zip

 

13. Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Crew ($135)

Materials: 78% merino, 22% polyester
Category: Lightweight
Weight: 6.7 oz.
What we like: The benefits of merino, plus moisture wicking and durability.
What we don’t: Expensive for a lightweight baselayer.

Black Diamond’s Solution Wool lineup made waves at its debut, namely for its innovative NuYarn technology. Many manufacturers weave fibers together with merino to reap the benefits of both, but NuYarn takes it to the next level, wrapping nylon with extra-fine merino fibers for a thread that exudes technical performance down to its literal core. The end result is impressive: Compared to a baselayer like the Smartwool Classic All-Season above, the Solution 150 is noticeably more durable and dries out very quickly when wet (great news for those who are prone to working up a sweat). 

After wearing the Solution 150 for six days straight while hiking in Patagonia, we were impressed with how well it held its shape and resisted odor. Under a loaded backpack, the offset shoulder stitching was comfortable and mitigated pressure points, and the thumb loops are sleek and well constructed. In fact, our biggest gripe with the Solution 150 is its price—at $135, it’s $50 more than Smartwool’s comparable baselayer top (the Classic All-Season Long Sleeve). But cost aside, the Solution 150 has solid all-around performance and will last longer than most merino baselayers.
See the Men's BD Solution 150 Merino  See the Women's BD Solution 150 Merino

 

14. Ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Crew ($115)

Materials: 81% merino wool, 12% nylon, 7% elastane
Category: Light/midweight
Weight: 7.4 oz.
What we like: A solid all-around option from a premium wool specialist.
What we don’t: Less comfortable than all-wool designs and not a great value.

For those unfamiliar, Ibex is a Colorado-based merino wool brand that specializes in performance apparel for outdoor use—from hiking and running to snow sports and travel. We especially like the Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Crew, which is part of their flagship Woolies collection and utilizes a functional mix of merino (81%) with added nylon and elastane for a boost in durability and stretch. The fabric has a premium feel to it—it’s soft, stretchy, and feels great against the skin—and all of the smaller details are similarly well sorted, including flatlock seams to minimize chafing, a nice selection of classy colorways, and handy thumb holes for layering overtop. A final highlight: All of Ibex’s wool is sourced from farms in Australia and New Zealand that are checked regularly to ensure the sheep are being treated humanely. 

It's worth noting that we’ve been testing the 1/4-zip version of the Woolies Tech, which retails for $135 and tacks on a zipper for easily regulating temperature (you can unzip to cool off when working hard). We included the Crew here given its nearly identical construction and feature set for $20 less, but neither model is a standout value. For the same price, the top-ranked Smartwool Classic Thermal above has a slightly softer all-wool construction and includes a quarter-length zipper to regulate heat. Alternatively, for $30 less, you can pick up their Classic All-Season Base Layer above, which uses a similar mix of merino and nylon (87% and 13%, respectively) but in a slightly thinner design (150g/m² vs. the Ibex’s 180g/m²). But price aside, the Woolies Tech stands out as a solid all-around option from a proven wool specialist, earning it a spot on our list this year.
See the Men's Ibex Woolies Tech LS Crew  See the Women's Woolies Tech LS Crew

 

15. Ortovox 185 Rock'N'Wool Long Sleeve ($110)

Material: 100% merino wool
Category: Light/midweight
Weight: 6.9 oz.
What we like: Great styling and super-soft hand feel.
What we don’t: Expensive and lacks durability.

We’ll start with the basics: The Ortovox 185 Merino long-sleeve crew is a standard merino baselayer. Much like the chart-topping Smartwool, it’s made with 100% wool, which means you get uncompromised odor resistance, great temperature regulation, and a cozy, soft touch. At 185 g/m², it’s lighter than the Smartwool Classic Thermal, meaning it’s more suitable for shoulder-season or high-output activities. That said, the thin fabric, paired with the fact that it’s not blended with a synthetic material, does make us concerned about the Ortovox’s durability (even Smartwool’s 150-weight shirt features a merino/nylon blend).

But here is where the Rock’N’Wool stands out: First, the Ortovox Wool Promise ensures that their product comes from ethical and certified sheep farms. And second, we just can’t get enough of the styling on the Rock’N’Wool—if you want a merino baselayer with some flair, the multi-colored designs really stand out in the conservative and largely bland baselayer market. For a versatile, breathable next-to-skin layer that can take you straight from skin track to après, the Ortovox 185 is an eye-catching but still very capable choice.
See the Men's Ortovox Rock'N'Wool LS  See the Women's Ortovox Rock'N'Wool LS

 

16. REI Co-op Lightweight Base Layer Crew ($40)

Materials: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
Category: Lightweight
Weight: 6.5 oz.
What we like: Simple yet functional.
What we don’t: Not super comfortable or a high performer.

In terms of bang for your buck, it’s hard to top REI baselayers. For $40, the Lightweight Crew offers most of the performance of the more expensive options above in a simple yet functional design. Additionally, REI honed things in even further with 8% spandex in the construction, which gives it a nice, stretchy feel. Paired with the matching bottoms, you can pick up a full long underwear set for $80 ($25 cheaper than just a merino top from Smartwool).

What are the downsides of the REI? We’ve found the lightweight model works well for mild resort skiing days, hiking, and casual use, but you may not be warm enough in frigid temperatures. Of note, REI does offer a warmer version (the Midweight Long Sleeve) for $55. And although the Co-op’s fabric is comfortably silky, it can’t compete with merino or even Patagonia’s Capilene in terms of softness and comfort (and it’s even more prone to holding in body odor). These issues aside, the REI Lightweight (or Midweight) Crew is a good way to kit yourself out this winter on a budget.
See the Men's REI Lightweight Crew  See the Women's REI Lightweight Crew

 

17. Icebreaker 260 Zone Crew ($140)

Materials: 97% merino wool, 3% elastane
Category: Midweight
Weight: 13.7 oz.
What we like: A warm yet breathable baselayer with mesh panels for extra ventilation.
What we don’t: Not everyone will love the tight fit.

For working hard in cold weather, the Icebreaker 260 Zone Crew offers one of the best combinations of warmth and breathability. Using Icebreaker’s BodyFitZone construction, it combines 260-weight merino (spun with elastane for durability and stretch) with strategically placed panels of airy merino mesh in moisture-prone areas like the underarms and back. The net result is a temperature-regulating baselayer that can dump serious heat but will still keep you warm where and when you need it to.

As we’ve come to expect from Icebreaker, everything about the 260 Zone exudes quality, from the flatlock seams to prevent friction to the well-executed thumb loops. Like the Odlo above, the stretchy 260 has a decidedly snug fit, which isn’t for everyone but does add a nice performance slant. And importantly, you still get great mobility with gusseted underarms and raglan sleeves, along with a drop-tail hem for added coverage around back. The Smartwool Classic Thermal above is roughly the same warmth and costs $25 less, but the Icebreaker’s more athletic fit and body-mapped mesh panels give it the edge for truly high-output use. Both are excellent midweight options, and a final decision will come down to your objectives and anticipated uses (casual vs. active wear).
See the Men's Icebreaker 260 Zone Crew  See the Women's Icebreaker 260 Zone Crew

 

18. Woolx Glacier Long Sleeve Crew ($150)

Material: 100% merino wool
Category: Heavyweight
Weight: 1 lb. 1.6 oz.
What we like: Very warm and soft; a great value for an all-merino baselayer.
What we don’t: Because of the thickness and cut, it’s not ideal for high-output activities.

Woolx is a small New York-based company that doesn’t get the hype of a Smartwool or Icebreaker, but their thick Glacier is a cozy and well-built heavyweight baselayer. Made with 100% merino wool, this piece is much warmer and more substantial than the midweight and lightweight options on the list. And because it’s merino, it’s still soft against the skin and breathes well. We’ve used the Glacier for everything from skiing and snowshoeing to casual use and have come away very impressed.

Stacked up against our top heavyweight pick, the Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck, the Woolx Glacier Long Sleeve Crew is noticeably thicker and warmer. Unfortunately, Patagonia doesn’t provide a g/m² spec for the R1, but the Glacier’s 400g/m² is unmistakably best suited for the coldest winter days, which may be good or bad depending on your intended use. It also costs an additional $30 more than the Patagonia, doesn’t come in a women’s version, and has a decidedly relaxed fit that leaves more room for air to move around. For working hard in frigid temps, we give the edge to the R1 Air, but the Woolx has its place as a premium wool alternative for less intensive activities.
See the Men's Woolx Glacier

 

Baselayer Comparison Table

Baselayer	Price	Materials	Category	Weight	g/m²
Smartwool Classic Thermal	$115	100% merino wool	Midweight	10 oz.	250g/m²
Patagonia Capilene Midweight	$79	100% recycled polyester	Light/mid	6.2 oz.	147g/m²
Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew	$45	100% polypropylene	Lightweight	5.1 oz.	125g/m²
Patagonia R1 Air Zip-Neck	$119	100% recycled polyester	Heavyweight	10.2 oz.	Unavail.
Smartwool Classic All-Season	$85	87% merino wool, 13% nylon	Lightweight	6 oz.	150g/m²
NW Alpine Black Spider Hoody	$135	92% polyester, 8% spandex	Midweight	11 oz.	194g/m²
Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight	$80	84% merino wool, 16% nylon	Midweight	8.3 oz.	180g/m²
Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody	$159	51% merino wool, 49% polyester	Midweight	6.9 oz.	190g/m²
Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crew	$105	100% merino wool	Midweight	11.8 oz.	200g/m²
Odlo Performance Wool Warm LS	$100	52% merino, 29% polyester, 13% polyamide, 6% elastane	Lightweight	6.6 oz.	Unavail.
Arc'teryx Rho Hybrid Crew Neck	$115	Body: 100% polyester; Panels: 87% merino, 13% nylon	Lightweight	5.6 oz.	Unavail.
REI Co-op Merino 185 Half-Zip	$90	100% merino wool	Midweight	Unavailable	185g/m²
Black Diamond Solution 150	$135	78% merino, 22% polyester	Lightweight	6.7 oz.	150g/m²
Ibex Woolies Tech LS Crew	$115	81% merino, 12% nylon, 7% elastane	Light/mid	7.4 oz.	180g/m²
Ortovox Rock'N'Wool LS	$110	100% merino wool	Light/mid	6.9 oz.	185g/m²
REI Co-op Lightweight Crew	$40	92% polyester, 8% spandex	Lightweight	6.5 oz.	Unavail.
Icebreaker 260 Zone Crew	$140	97% merino wool, 3% elastane	Midweight	13.7 oz.	260g/m²
Woolx Glacier LS Crew	$150	100% merino wool	Heavyweight	1 lb. 1.6 oz.	400g/m²

 

Baselayer Buying Advice

• Baselayer Materials
• Important Strengths and Weaknesses
  • Breathability
  • Odor Prevention
  • Durability
  • Warmth
• Baselayer Categories: Insulation Weight
• Crew Neck vs. Quarter or Half Zips
• Fit
• Key Baselayer Features
• Sustainability
• What About Baselayer Bottoms?
• Layering Systems: Base, Mid, and Outer Layers
   

Baselayer Materials

Merino Wool
Merino wool, despite a higher cost than synthetics, is our recommended baselayer material for a number of reasons. It’s ultra soft and comfortable, has superior temperature regulation, and resists odor. Granted, merino wool baselayers are expensive and less durable than the polyester competition, amounting to roughly double the cost. Take good care of them, however, and you should be able to get at least a few seasons of extended use. Our top baselayer pick, the Smartwool Classic Thermal 1/4 Zip, is 100% merino. For more information about the pros and cons of the material, check out our article: Merino Wool: Is It Worth It?

Polyester
For a cost-effective baselayer alternative, you can always turn to polyester. Led by Patagonia’s legendary Capilene line, polyester fabrics can keep up in terms of moisture wicking and the comfort difference isn’t that far off. The downside is stink prevention, which is an area of emphasis for many manufacturers. Thus far, odor-resistant polyesters still can’t compete with the natural benefits of merino but they are improving. In addition, polyester fabrics don’t regulate temperatures as well, so it’s more important to match the fabric weight with intended use and conditions (more on that below). Despite the downsides, polyester fabrics are what we recommend most often for resort skiers. At approximately half the price of a comparable merino option, the cost saving is too significant to overlook.

Blends
It’s not quite as simple as deciding between an all-merino or all-polyester baselayer. Some performance-oriented brands are experimenting with blends that aim to offer the comfort and performance of merino wool with the durability and moisture-wicking of polyester. The Odlo Performance Wool Warm Long Sleeve, for example, weaves together 52% merino wool with 29% polyester, 13% polyamide, and 6% elastane, while Black Diamond's NuYarn (as seen in the Solution 150 Merino) actually wraps merino fibers around a nylon core and then weaves this manufactured thread together with polyester. The commonality of these types is that they are among the highest priced items in this market, so these blends are more about performance than cost savings.

Silk
Silk is one of the softest and most comfortable of the baselayer fabrics and packs an impressive amount of warmth into a lightweight, thin design. But as the demand for temperature-regulating baselayers rises, silk is largely going out of vogue. It just can’t keep up with merino or polyester in terms of moisture wicking and turns into a sweat lodge during high-output activities. Moreover, silk is far less durable than polyester and should always be worn under a mid or outer layer to protect from UV rays and abrasion. And finally, it does not resist odor like merino and should be hand-washed. In the end, it's telling that no silk designs made our list this year, but silk baselayers do have their advantages as dedicated sleep wear or an extra layer in town.

Important Strengths and Weaknesses

Breathability
The breathability of a baselayer is dependent on a number of factors, including the type and quality of the fabric, thickness, and openness of the weave. In general, lightweight merino wool will offer the best in terms of breathability, although some high-quality lightweight synthetics are close. This means that for high-exertion activities where you will be working up a sweat (think ski touring, cross-country skiing, biking, and climbing) it’s probably worth spending more to get a higher-performing baselayer like the Smartwool Intraknit 200 or Icebreaker 150 Zone. Spending less, particularly on a thick baselayer, will yield less breathability. Whether or not that’s a deal-breaker is up to personal preference and your tendency to overheat.

Merino: Excellent
Blends: Excellent
Polyester: Very good
Silk: Not good

Odor Prevention
Merino wool excels at pulling moisture away from your skin, and less sweat build up means less stink build up. If you’re taking an extended backcountry trip and don’t want to carry multiple baselayers or rinse them each night, merino is the way to go. Some synthetics do fine for odor prevention, provided you aren’t working up a huge sweat. For example, we’ve hiked for extended periods in Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight in cool weather and have been impressed with its odor resistance. But nothing beats merino in keeping you dry and stink free.

Merino: Very good
Blends: Good
Polyester: Not good
Silk: Not good

Durability
Here is where the tide changes: Merino is super soft but prone to developing small holes over time that eventually hamper the performance of the product, whereas synthetics should last for multiple seasons. To put this in perspective, we usually get a season or two out of a standard lightweight merino baselayer, even from the top brands and by following their washing instructions (cold water and line dry). Admittedly, these shirts get a lot of use, but that’s still a very short lifespan. But with synthetics, one or two seasons would be on the short end of the spectrum and we would hope for more like three or four.

Some companies are blending wool and synthetics to increase the strength of the baselayer without compromising next-to-skin comfort, which is a good idea in our opinion. We haven’t noticed much of a drop in terms of comfort or performance, but merino/synthetic blends are a step up in durability. Even so, if we’re wearing a baselayer without anything overtop, we’ll always opt for a fully synthetic piece such as the NW Alpine Black Spider Hoody.

Polyester: Excellent
Blends: Very good
Merino: Not good
Silk: Not good

Warmth
Out of all the fabrics we’ve mentioned, merino has the best heat-trapping properties. In general, you get a better warmth-to-weight ratio with merino than with polyester, and it regulates temperature better too. The same shirt that keeps you warm in the winter will keep you cool when you’re sweating up the skin track in the shoulder seasons. Silk, too, is noticeably warm for its thin makeup, but its lack of breathability is a strong drawback. It’s also important to consider if you’ll be wearing your baselayer as an outer layer—while merino doesn’t do much to block wind, some polyester fabrics (such as Patagonia’s Capilene) are so tightly woven that they have the ability to resist light gusts. And keep in mind that warmth is directly related to the thickness of the material too, which we discuss in the Insulation Weight section below. 

Merino: Excellent
Blends: Very good
Polyester: Good
Silk: Good

Baselayer Categories: Insulation Weight 

Lightweight 
Logically, lightweight baselayers are the best breathers but do the least in keeping you warm. This is where merino wool shines—it does an admirable job of temperature regulation for the weight and thickness. However, the thinner the merino, the less durable it becomes. For this reason, most lightweight baselayers are made of polyester. These are ideal for early season skiing, bluebird days, and high-output activities such as cross-country skiing and cold-weather running. Resort skiers and winter climbers will likely opt for a warmer and cozier midweight baselayer.

Midweight
For the widest variety of conditions, a midweight baselayer makes the most sense. It will provide the warmth you need yet still be breathable enough for physical exertion, especially when made with high-quality merino or polyester. Midweight baselayers are the most popular choice for downhill skiers: They’re plenty warm for the lift ride up but you are unlikely to overheat on the descent. They are less popular than lightweight baselayers for hiking or ski touring in moderate conditions as the extra warmth corresponds with a drop in the fabric’s ability to regulate temperatures (even merino can get too hot in warm temperatures). But in cool spring and fall conditions, a midweight baselayer can perform great as an outer layer and is the ideal next-to-skin layer for resort skiing on cold days.

Heavyweight
Heavyweight baselayers are specialty items for cold temperatures or if you’ll be relatively sedentary. The extra thickness inhibits breathability and it’s easy to start sweating even on short walks. Keep in mind that you don’t need all of your insulation from a single article of clothing, and as a result, you can always add warmer layers on top of a light or midweight baselayer. But for winter mountaineering, extreme cold, or low-output activities around camp, a heavyweight baselayer can be the height of coziness. If you do go this route, we love the Woolx Glacier Long Sleeve Crew, which is a 400g/m² all-merino baselayer that still breathes decently well. Patagonia’s Thermal Weight Capilene can get swampy unless it’s very cold.

Crew Neck vs. Quarter or Half Zips

Nearly every baselayer on the market is made in a number of styles, including long-sleeve crew and half/quarter-length zippered shirts. Many folks opt for a crewneck style, but there are a number of reasons to think about a zippered shirt. One upside is the ability to adapt to changing weather conditions. Zip up for added warmth at the start of the climb, and unzip as you work up a sweat. And if you want to remove the shirt altogether, it’s nice not having to take off your helmet to do so. Furthermore, the extra coverage you get with the raised collar is a nice boost in warmth, and we’ve even found that quarter or half-zip long sleeves have a decent look for around town. The downside is the collars can flop around if you unzip the shirts while running, and having a zipper on your next-to-skin layer isn’t as comfortable as the cleaner crew style.

Fit

For optimal performance, baselayers need to have a snug fit. This helps the fabrics draw moisture away from your skin most efficiently. Some folks like wearing their baselayers for casual use, and that’s when a dedicated performance product like Odlo Performance Wool Warm Long Sleeve is less useful. The shirt conforms to your body like a performance piece should, but it’s far too tight to wear anywhere else. A product like the REI Co-op Merino 185 Half-Zip is on the opposite end of the spectrum, with a roomier fit that sacrifices a little in moisture wicking and breathability. But it’s a great choice for those that prefer a dual use baselayer/casual shirt. In the end, your decision is a personal one, and we recommend looking at fit based on intended use and preferences on style.

Key Baselayer Features

Baselayers can range from simple, featureless crew tops like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew to hooded half-zips with a chest pocket (the NW Alpine Black Spider Hoody, for example). If you know you’ll be layering a mid or outer layer over your baselayer, the simpler the better. However, those who wear their baselayer as an outer layer will appreciate zip pockets and thumb loops. And climbers and skiers will benefit from a tight hood or balaclava that fits under their helmet, like what you get with the Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody. Furthermore, some baselayers even have the capability of blocking sun rays (measured by the UPF rating). As usual, it will help to identify what you’ll be using your baselayer for before determining what features you need.

Sustainability

The focus on sustainability has been increasing in the outdoor industry over the past several years, and baselayers are no exception. In this category, there currently are two key trends: responsibly sourced wool and the use of recycled synthetic materials. The former indicates that sheep were treated humanely and in accordance with strict animal welfare and environmental standards (there are a number of certifications, including the Responsible Wool Standard and ZQ-certified wool). We’ve also begun to see more companies utilizing recycled materials, which cuts down on fossil fuel consumption and reduces the amount of plastics being produced overall (Patagonia's Capilene Midweight is made from 100% recycled polyester). All in all, we appreciate these efforts and are eager to see more brands come on board.

What About Baselayer Bottoms?

Most baselayers on this list have a matching bottom with the same construction and a similar or identical price. For organization sake, we list the tops here as they are more popular, but the bottoms are readily available and share the same pros and cons. In general though, maintaining a warm core will do much more for your entire body’s comfort than keeping your legs warm. But given that there’s no need to choose—and provided that almost nothing is cozier than a pair of long johns—we’re huge proponents of baselayer bottoms as well.

Layering Systems: Base, Mid, and Outer Layers

To get the most out of your technical clothing, it’s important think of everything as a system. Each piece relies on the layers around it to perform well. As an example, if you have a baselayer that wicks moisture well, but are wearing a fully rubber mid or outer layer, it won’t matter how nice of a merino fabric you have: You’ll still be wet and miserable. As such, take the time to put together mid and outer layers that are as high-performing as the baselayers listed above.

Baselayers
Baselayers have two primary functions: warmth and moisture wicking. Whether constructed with silk, wool, polyester, or a blend, a baselayer is made to retain your body’s heat while transporting moisture away from the skin. And these two features work together—keeping the body dry will in turn lead to more warmth. Baselayers are worn beneath a midlayer or shell during the winter months, or as an outer layer during the fall and spring for activities like hiking, biking, and climbing. The thickness and material of your baselayer will have big impacts on warmth and breathability, so make sure to keep this mind when making a purchase. 

Midlayers
For high-output activities, such as hiking, backpacking and climbing, breathability is top priority. We recommend a fleece jacket or synthetic jacket for balancing warmth and ventilation. High performers include the Arc’teryx Atom LT and the R line of fleeces from Patagonia. If you only plan to grab your insulating layer during downtimes, such as hanging around camp after the sun goes down, consider a warm and super packable down jacket. Skiing is a similar story, and conditions will dictate the best midlayer for you. Options can range from a puffy down jacket to a light fleece.

Outer Layers
Outer layers are the most specialized part of the system, and their complex designs can get quite pricey. A waterproof, breathable, and packable rain jacket is needed for activities like climbing and hiking/backpacking. Winter conditions are much harsher, so durability takes precedence for ski jackets. Their designs offer more pockets for storing gear or personal effects and a longer fit to protect you from snow sneaking through. There are also hardshell jackets that blur the lines, mixing the weight of a rain jacket with the performance (and extra cost) of a ski jacket.
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