Picture this: a crisp winter morning, the sun peeking over snow-capped peaks, and you, gliding down powdery slopes like a pro. But wait, what’s keeping you warm and cozy underneath all that gear? Base layers! Today, we’re diving into the world of the best base layers for skiing, ensuring you stay warm, dry, and stylish on and off the slopes.
Best Base Layers for Skiing for Men
Smartwool Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew
Introducing the Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew, crafted from 100% Merino wool. This is one of the best base layers for skiing and it offers natural sweat management, odor resistance, and temperature regulation – making it perfect for cold-weather activities like skiing, hiking, climbing, or biking. Upgraded with new colors and a better fit, it features shoulder panels that eliminate top shoulder seams and flatlock seam construction to prevent chafing.
“Comfy, warm, and they look great.” – Connor
Under ArmourMen’s ColdGear® Leggings
Designed to combat the chill, these ColdGear® men’s leggings offer warmth without bulkiness or discomfort. The dual-layer fabric provides a cozy, brushed interior and a quick-drying exterior. With stretch-mesh gusset and inseam panels, they offer enhanced ventilation and breathability. The 4-way stretch material allows for unrestricted movement in all directions. Additionally, the leggings wick sweat away from the body, keeping you dry and comfortable.
“The ColdGears are great for cold temperatures. They look good and are comfortable to wear all day. Under Armour customer service is excellent and very helpful.” – Larry
icebreaker Men’s Merino 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top
The 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe is a top-selling base layer shirt renowned for its versatility and comfort. Crafted from breathable 100% merino wool jersey, this shirt is suitable for various settings. Its soft merino fibers regulate body temperature in all weather conditions and resist odors, ensuring the wearer stays fresh and comfortable throughout the day. Designed with gusseted underarms for enhanced mobility and comfort, it is ideal for active pursuits. Offset shoulder seams prevent friction, even when carrying a backpack, while flatlock seams are strategically placed to prevent chafing during movement.
“I have multiple of these and wear them as my first layer. So soft and comfortable. Wash beautifully! I have purchased many over the years. Icebreaker is high quality.” – Vernon
Arc’teryx Men’s Rho LT Zip Neck
The Rho LT Zip Neck base layer offers excellent moisture management properties and thermal efficiency, keeping you warm and dry on the slopes. The fabric is brushed for comfort and features a Polygiene® treatment for odor control. The trim fit maximizes fabric performance and allows for easy layering, while the deep front zip makes it easy to put on and take off. The chest pocket is perfect for securing your smartphone, and the tall collar adds extra warmth.
“Very comfortable product for cool weather. I have 3 that I use for hiking, biking and skiing. Not too hot during aerobic activity. I really recommend it.” – Fred
Helly Hansen Men’s LIFA® ACTIVE Base Layer Pants
The LIFA® ACTIVE pants are one of the best base layers for skiing designed to provide superior moisture management and lightweight insulation for all outdoor activities. Featuring an advanced 2-layer construction with wicking technical fibers, these pants keep you comfortable throughout the day, no matter the sport. Weighing just 260g, they are lightweight and easy to wear. Plus, they are a bluesign® product, ensuring they meet the highest standards for environmental and social responsibility.
“Love my HH gear and the base layer is outstanding. Have several pairs of these and LOVE the colorful top options as well!” – BKW
Best Base Layers for Skiing for Women
Patagonia Women’s Capilene® Midweight Crew
Introducing a classic baselayer made from 100% recycled polyester, known for its smooth, soft feel and ease of layering. This baselayer features hollow-core yarns and a diamond-grid back to trap warm air, wick moisture, and dry quickly. HeiQ® Pure odor control ensures freshness, even after extended wear. Manufactured in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, this baselayer is as ethical as it is functional.
“My favorite base layer for the winter months. Perfect to wear by itself during the fall too. The thumb loops are so clutch! I love that feature for this garment. Thank you Patagonia for making a product geared for colder months.” – Tullivan
Columbia Tunnel Springs™ Wool Baselayer Tights
Stay warm and dry during your outdoor adventures with the Columbia Tunnel Springs™ Wool Baselayer Tights. These cozy tights are designed to keep you comfortable on cold days while efficiently wicking away sweat when the adventure heats up.
Featuring Omni-Wick™ technology, these tights pull moisture away from your skin to the fabric’s surface, where it can evaporate quickly, providing fast-drying, next-to-skin comfort, especially in the heat. With a regular inseam of 28 inches and made from 60% Merino wool and 40% Lyocell, these tights are imported and crafted to the highest quality standards.
“Perfect base layer. I hope Columbia brings out more wool products. I could live in these.” – Brenn
REI Co-op Merino 185 Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top
The women’s REI Co-op Merino 185 is one of the best base layers for skiing and it’s crafted from ultrafine merino wool, loved for its softness, breathability, and natural odor resistance. Made for multiday trips, this top offers UPF 30 sun protection and features flat seams and merrow stitch construction to eliminate chafing. With underarm gussets for full range of movement, it is designed to hug the body for optimum performance. Machine washable and made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, this top has been field-tested for hiking, running, climbing, cycling, skiing, and camping across the U.S.
“This shirt is awesome. I tend to sweat a lot when I get moving and sweat turns into… well smell. And this thing didn’t smell at all! I had it on for three nights and it was great.” – Rachel
Odlo The Performance Wool 150 base layer
The Performance Wool 150 base layer combines 55% non-mulesed merino wool with 45% recycled polyester for a sustainable and high-performance blend. Knitted in Norway and assembled in their European factory, this base layer is naturally temperature-regulating and antimicrobial, keeping you fresh and comfortable. Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or exploring, this fast-drying base layer offers natural comfort wherever your adventures take you.
“In short, a high-performance base layer with the perfect blend of natural fibers and fabric technology in a seamless design that is very form-fitting.” – Dominique
Nike Therma-FIT One High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings
The Nike Therma-FIT One High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings are versatile and comfortable, whether you’re working out or relaxing. These leggings are designed to regulate heat, keeping you cozy during any activity. The soft, stretchy fabric and multiple pockets add convenience and comfort, making them perfect for hitting the trails or running errands. Additionally, the leggings are thick enough to provide coverage and confidence, even during your deepest bends.
“So buttery soft, thick and compressing. Great quality and would highly recommend.” – Tiata
Finding the best base layers for skiing is like discovering a secret weapon against the cold. Whether you’re drawn to the natural warmth of Merino wool or the high-tech features of synthetic materials, the key is to stay dry, warm, and comfortable. With the right base layers and knowing what to wear skiing, you can focus on carving up the slopes and enjoying every moment of your winter adventures.