A base layer is a piece of clothing, made from materials that are designed to keep you comfortable in changing conditions and activity levels. Its main purpose is to transport moisture away from the body so you can stay warm and dry.

Most base layers are made of either synthetic material or merino wool. These are the most common materials, though you may come across silk on the rare occasion. Whichever you choose, they each offer their own benefits and drawbacks. We recommend that you steer clear of a cotton base layer because it absorbs moisture like a sponge. One sweaty day in cotton may leave you feeling cold and damp, instead of dry and comfortable.

Our base layers for men and women are available in a range of garments — from short-sleeve to long-sleeve tops and from shorts to pants.

Merino wool is a natural fiber grown by Merino sheep, and a popular choice for base layers due to its natural moisture management qualities. Merino wool on its own is more susceptible to wear and tear, which is why we combine it with other materials (to enable longer-lasting use).

Our most popular merino wool base layers are called LIFA® Merino and feature a 2-layer construction:

• the inner layer is made using 100% LIFA® to help push moisture away
• the outer layer is made from 100% merino wool to help absorb and wick away moisture

We believe that this combination of synthetic and wool delivers the best balance of warmth and moisture management.

If you're taking on tougher terrain, we've got an exciting new range called Durawool. With a blend of of 55% ZQ-certified merino wool and 45% Cordura®, Durawool gives you an extra edge when it comes to tackling brush.

• Longer duration activities

• Stop-and-go activities

• Low intensity activities

• Extremely cold conditions

• Temperature regulation

• Odor control

• Easy to care for

• Better shape-retention of garment

• Less cost-efficient

• Less durable

• Slower to dry

Synthetic base layers are made of material like polyester, nylon, or polypropylene. Our range of LIFA® Active and Solen base layers use LIFA®. This unique fabric is based on a yarn technology that moves moisture away from the skin and transports it to the surface of the fabric, where it evaporates, keeping you warm, dry and comfortable.

• High intensity activities where you build up a sweat

• Water-based activities in spring/summer

• If packing light is a priority

• Breathable

• Cost-effective

• Durable

• Effective at wicking away moisture

• Machine-washable

• Quick to dry

• Can start to smell in a short space of time

• Takes longer to degrade

Top tip: synthetic base layers can smell a bit more than merino wool, but there are steps you can take to quench the stench.

Yes! A base layer can be worn either as a single layer or under another garment. If you're heading into unpredictable conditions or hiking over multiple days, we recommend that you adopt a 3 layer system where you start with a base layer, add a midlayer (fleece or woolen jumper) and finish with an outer layer (like a shell jacket).

Ideally, any next-to-skin clothing (including bras and underwear) should offer moisture-wicking qualities. As a rule of thumb, we recommend synthetic in the summer and wool in the winter. Remember that the more snug the fit, the more effective your next-to-skin clothing will be at transporting moisture away from your body, keeping you comfortable and dry. 

We recommend you go with your normal size because we already take into account that base layers should fit as close to the skin as possible.