Women’s Base Layers
In the past, women didn't have many options for base layers in cold weather. Thick cotton long johns or stiff, itchy wool were the norm. Today, women can take advantage of advanced materials and designs for extra layers of insulation on cold days.
Benefits of Wearing Base Layers
When you wear women’s base layers under your winter clothes, you’ll enjoy plenty of benefits. Base layers create extra insulation from cold temperatures and biting wind while also wicking moisture away from your skin when you sweat.
If you hate the feeling of rough wool against your skin, you’re not alone. Many women have itchy or even allergic responses to wool sweaters and pants. When you crave the warmth of pure wool, but you want to avoid the itch, base layers offer extra insulation and comfort, separating your sensitive skin from rough outer layers.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes or sitting at your desk in a drafty office, base layers will keep you comfortable all winter long.
Base Layer Materials
Base layers are generally made of super-soft fabrics like brushed synthetics that are great for dissipating sweat and wicking moisture while avoiding odor buildup. Synthetic materials also deliver plenty of stretch for unencumbered movement during any activity.
Merino wool is another great material for base layers. It boasts ultrafine, soft fibers that help avoid the itch of other wool varieties. Silk is the third common material for women’s base layers. It’s comfortable against your skin and provides a smooth surface so your other layers of clothing won’t get snagged, caught, or bunched up.
Base Layer Features and Styles
Some women prefer lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight women’s base layers. Whatever your preference, you can take advantage of clever features like thumb holes for additional wrist warmth and UPF ratings for sun protection. Some women’s base layers even feature a turtleneck style neckline so you can wear them as a built in gaiter.
Be sure to also look for options with flat-seam construction. Flat seams eliminate the most common source of chafing and irritation for improved wearability.
Top Brands for Women’s Base Layers
When you require extreme comfort and impressive functionality from your base layers, great brands like SmartWool, Outdoor Research, and Terramar have plenty to offer. They all prioritize practical designs and materials to help you stay warm, dry, and chafe-free when the temperature drops.
