Joined in 2023 
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We fully understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously. Here are some of the reasons you can trust us: BOTTOM LINE: The Patagonia Capilene Midweight ( men’s / women’s) is a durable and comfortable base layer top that’s quite the steal at its price point. We’ve used this top for multiple thru-hikes, and it’s still going strong nearly a decade later. If it’s cold, you may intend to pile on the layers. But having a lightweight layer as your next-to-skin layer gives you more flexibility for temperature adjustment while doing something active. This allows you to keep the warmth against your body and adjust as needed. Many folks will layer a heavyweight base layer over a lightweight one for very cold aerobic sports. Use a technical fabric wash - We recommend Nikwax Tech Wash or Woolite for washing any technical fabrics because these solutions won’t leave fragrances or residue on your clothing. WARMTH - One of the biggest factors you should consider when choosing the right base layers is what type of weather you typically recreate in. We keep an option from each of these categories in our clothing rotation, so that we’re always prepared for any type of weather.
Best Base Layers of 2023 | CleverHiker 7 Best Base Layers of 2023 | CleverHiker
For a decade, our team of experts has bought and tested dozens of the best base layers on the market. For this update, we compare 17 of the most popular options side-by-side. From the ski slopes to alpine climbs to sleeping out under the stars, our in-depth analysis derives from real-world adventures undertaken while wearing each model. We score all base layers across key areas of performance, like warmth, breathability, and drying speed. Whether it's for the warm or cold season, a quality base layer is sure to keep you dry and comfortable, no matter where your next outdoor escapade takes you. Our Treeline Review testers wore the Smartwool Classic on ultra-runs in Utah, thru-hikes of the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Pacific Northwest Trail, for winter outdoor yoga classes in the 30s, skiing in Colorado, hanging out in cabins and ski huts playing board games, and getting drinks with friends after a day outdoors. Initially found in sports such as cycling and skiing where lightweight functional clothing plays an important part in performance, b ase layers have become a popular addition to many equestrian wardrobes. Perfect for both high intensity and low intensity sport, they are ideal for all disciplines of riding activity.Fit is also important, but it depends on your preferred outdoor activity. Tighter tops will trap more warmth, but opt for a looser cut if freedom of movement is a priority or if you’ll be wearing it for several hours. Breathable and stretchy, useful features such as hood and thumb loops, highly adaptable to wide range of conditions Smartwool has been making a version of this layer for almost three decades. Each iteration has made it better and better.
Base Layers - Thumb Loops - Alpinetrek Merino Wool Base Layers - Thumb Loops - Alpinetrek
What is it? Fear not, it’s not akin to your favourite woolly jumper. Merino wool is lighter in weight than traditional wool, and its temperature-regulating properties make it perfect for base layers. The best merino wool base layer we tested is the Ibex Woolies 2. Both Liz and Naomi tested this base layer seven years ago, and both of them consistently reach for that same shirt at least once a week. Since then, Ibex has gone through a major rebranding, but for 2023, it has re-released the Woolies. We are overjoyed. We're thrilled to report it has all the same great features we loved with the previous version. We’d like to have the best of the best all the time, but realistically, price is a practical concern for most people. If you’re looking to save on costs, synthetics can be less expensive than wool-and if you’re looking to spend as little as possible on each piece, a base layer from Wal-Mart and one from Patagonia isn’t all that different at first glance. As mentioned, the Cotopaxi Liso isn't the warmest option, as it's thinner and less warm than many of its rivals. It's also less warm than wool shirts of the same weight. If gone unwashed, the synthetic fabric will develop a funk if you after a few days of wear, despite the Polygiene application applied to the fabric. Be mindful when washing the Liso: all that stretch is accomplished by using a hefty amount of spandex in the fabric, and this will lose its stretchiness after enduring too many dryer cycles. If you want a great budget wool top, have a look at the Meriwool Merino 250.
Analysis and Test Results
What we liked: Softness, comfort, fit, sleeves and torso that are long enough, performance and good looking, stylish The Good Housekeeping Institute tested 29 base layers, with our panel wearing each top for at least three outdoor workouts. Heading out for a casual bike ride or ramble? Look no further for your perfect base layer. Our panel was impressed by its temperature-regulating ability, saying it felt pleasingly warm to wear, and loved its choice of four designs. As we progress to an increasingly casual aesthetic, it is only natural that brands are looking to combine the comfort and performance functionality of outdoor apparel. While we may love the fabric of a base layer top, if the base layer bottom doesn't fit right, it won't feel comfortable. Worse yet, with a merino base layer bottom, we've sometime seen the same fabric we love for a top not have enough stretch for a bottom…and to develop holes in unfortunate areas.
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