Baselayers are the hidden workhorses of winter apparel. But out of sight doesn’t mean they should be out of mind—getting them right is important. A bad baselayer can ruin what would otherwise be a great adventure due to scratchy materials, a subpar fit, or an inability to dry out quickly. A perfect layer, meanwhile, can keep you warm, dry, and happy all day long. After copious testing, our team of testers has assembled a list of favorite men’s base layers for every winter condition and activity, from casual resort laps to frigid weeklong epics.
At a Glance
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Editor’s Choice
Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew and Bottom
$115 at Ibex (Top) $115 at Ibex (Bottom)
Sizes: S-XXL
Fit: Tight
Key Material: Merino wool/nylon Nuyarn blend
Breathability: 9/10
Warmth: 6/10
Wicking: 8/10
Pros and Cons
⊕ Forget-you’re-wearing-it comfort
⊕ Excellent wicking and moisture control
⊕ Odor resistant
⊗ Not super warm
The true sign of a great baselayer is that…
