Most base layer companies recommend air drying your base layers. Smartwool layers can go into the dryer on low heat. If you have the time and space, air drying will undoubtedly extend the lifespan of your layers. 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. Football skins are a type of compression sportswear that acts as a second skin. But unlike thermal base layers, they are not worn to keep players warm. They are worn to help improve performance and speed up recovery by improving blood flow. They also support muscles and reduce swelling. Though they do help to regulate your body temperature, which is an added bonus. If you're looking for underlayers to keep you warm, then you need thermal football skins or base layers. No matter which elements you’re battling, the aim of a base layer is to regulate your body temperature while avoiding that clammy feeling. With that in mind, finding the right fabric is key.

One of our favorite super stretchy, soft, and warm synthetic base layers for cool to cold conditions Most synthetics can be tumble dried on low, but air drying is best for some pieces. Base Layers for Kids Most base layers come in two main fabrics: merino wool or synthetic and both have advantages and disadvantages. The type that is best for your family will depend on your needs, activities, and budget. Merino and synthetics can both be worn year round (yes, wool in the summer too!). Merino Wool Base Layers:

The Solution 150 won't be a perfect fit for everyone: the slim fit can be too tight for many body types to wear comfortably — especially if you're worried about the sleeves being too tight around the shoulders and pits. The NuYarn wool blend is a thin, stretchy fabric, but durability is a concern if worn alone and not safely underneath a top layer. Finally, we need to talk about the price: this is one of the most expensive base layers we've tested. Still, if you can swing the cost, you may never find yourself not wearing this hoody, from when the first flakes fall to when the last ski run closes. Ella’s wool is a company based out of Brooklyn, NY. Becca’s Norwegian roots were her inspiration to start the company when she couldn’t stand to see empty playgrounds in the winter after moving to New York. The Cool Daily is also treated with a Polygiene anti-odor technology called HeiQ® Fresh Durable Odor Control, which seemed to work even after a week of continuous use. The fabric is 50% recycled, bluesign certified for environmentally-friendly dying, and sewn in a Fair Trade factory.

Our base layers testing used six rating metrics with the following weightings to the overall final score: The same can be said for Smartwool, whose simple washing tips have been drawing people who don’t want to have to think too hard on laundry day. As a team we speak from experience that warmth truly comes from the inside out and warm kids will stay and play longer outside with less complaining. I grabbed a pair of REI brand kid base layer pants for myself on clearance and I like the fit and feel of those better than my more expensive Smartwool bottoms. TMM Team Member Cait Shred Dog/AkovaBase layers are a great way to make physical activity in the outdoors more enjoyable. They keep you warm in the cold weather conditions. They keep you cooler in hot weather. They also help prevent rubbing or chafing in sensitive spots. Base layers can be used while running, hiking, climbing, biking, or any activity, especially outdoors. Utilizing base layers will help you worry less about keeping warm (or staying cool) and allow you to focus on your outdoor or physical activity goals. The baby base layers are footed which keeps feet warm too. They come in moss green, gray, navy blue and pink.