10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar 2024)

Here is the list you've been looking for to help you find a proper base layer to wear in such cold weather!

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Comparison Table

Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Base Layer with Mesh Ventilation
Smartwool
2
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Lightweight Base Layer
Smartwool
3
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Higher Neck Base Layer
Smartwool
4
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Thermoregulation Base Layer
Smartwool
5
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Base Layer with Moisture Management
Arc'teryx Store
6
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Versatile Base Layer
Triple Aught Design
7
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Base Layer with Stay Warm Technology
Helly Hansen
8
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Base Layer with Hoodie
Helly Hansen
9
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Feminine Cut Base Layer
Kari Traa
10
10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar  2024): Moisture-Wicking Base Layer
Arc'teryx Store
Product Name Intraknit™ Merino 200 Crew Merino 150 Base Layer 1/4 Zip Merino 250 Base Layer Hoodie Merino 250 Base Layer 1/4 Zip MOTUS AR ZIP NECK LS MEN'S ALCHEMY HALF-ZIP W HOD LIFA MERINO LIGHTWEIGHT W LIFA MERINO MIDWEIGHT HOODIE Rose Half Zip Top Rho AR Zip-Neck Long Underwear Top
7 4 7 5 5 0 0 0 0 1
Features Base Layer with Mesh Ventilation Lightweight Base Layer Higher Neck Base Layer Thermoregulation Base Layer Base Layer with Moisture Management Versatile Base Layer Base Layer with Stay Warm Technology Base Layer with Hoodie Feminine Cut Base Layer Moisture-Wicking Base Layer
MATERIAL 53% Merino Wool, 45% Polyester, 2% Elastane 87% Merino Wool, 13% Nylon 100% Merino Wool 100% Merino Wool 100% polyester with FC0 yarn and DAO™ finish 69% Polyester/31% Merino Wool 100% Merino Wool exterior 100% Merino Wool 100% Wool 90% polyester/10% elastane
COLOR Deep Navy-Ocean Abyss, Black-White, Acorn-Twilight Blue, Pomegranate-Deep Navy, Blue Spruce-Twilight Blue Indigo Blue - Plant Base Dye, Light Gray Heather Military Olive Mountain Scape-Black, Black-Charcoal, Golden Olive-Black Military Olive Heather-Black, Black, Charcoal Heather, Deep Navy, Woodsmoke Heather-Charcoal Heather Black Heather, Forcefield Heather, Anecdote Heather, Figment Heather 5 Options Offwhite Offwhite Syrup, Sail, Black n/a
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL XS, S, M, L, XL S, M, L, XL, XXL S, M, L, XL, XXL S, M, L, XL, XXL XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL XS, S, M, L, XL XS, S, M, L, XL XS, S, M, L, XL n/a
GENDER Women Women Men Men Men Men Women Women Women Women's
price $120.00 $90.00 $94.50 $105.00 $89.00 $90.00 $130.00 $120.00 $110.00 $145.00
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When you plan to go camping or hiking in such cold weather, you must ensure that you have everything you need to keep your body warm. And a base layer is essential for it. A good base layer should keep you warm while also acting as a second skin, keeping you dry and wicking away moisture quickly. Well, you don’t have to be confused about which one to choose as we’ve compiled a list of the top ten best base layers for extreme cold. Explore the features and materials, then select the one that best suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In case you don't know

What is the purpose of a base layer?

A base layer that acts as a second skin, protecting your real skin from cold and even the sun. It is a garment or layer that is closest to your skin and provides warmth while absorbing and evaporating sweat to keep you warm and comfortable.

What makes a good base layer?

A base layer should be snug enough to trap air next to the skin and insulate the body from cold temperatures. The cold is more likely to enter if there are gaps between the fabric and your skin, that’s why it’s better to choose a base layer size you normally wear because they are made slightly smaller with this in mind.

Can you wear two base layers?

Absolutely, yes. Wearing two base layers is socially acceptable, normal, and safe as long as you feel comfortable. It usually does while out in such cold weather since you need extra protection from the cold.

Is merino wool a good base layer?

Merino wool is high-quality wool derived from merino sheep, which are found primarily in New Zealand. It’s a great fabric for active base layers because it’s soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, and naturally odor-resistant. However, some brands combine it with other materials to increase the durability of the base layer itself, which is also something to consider.

10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold (Mar 2024)

Here's our recommendation products!
Smartwool Intraknit™ Merino 200 Crew - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Base Layer with Mesh Ventilation
https://www.smartwool.com/

1.
Smartwool
Intraknit™ Merino 200 Crew

Base Layer with Mesh Ventilation

7  visitors like this
price from
$120.00
Our opinion:

Begin with this Smartwool base layer, which is made of Merino and polyester that makes it a perfect base layer to choose from. The merino material keeps your body warm, while the polyester material ensures the base layer’s durability. Furthermore, mesh ventilation is knit in gender-specific zones to keep the body dry and comfortable.

Promising review:

Extremely warm and comfortable. Bought them before a ski trip and loved it.

by Angelia

MATERIAL 53% Merino Wool, 45% Polyester, 2% Elastane
COLOR Deep Navy-Ocean Abyss, Black-White, Acorn-Twilight Blue, Pomegranate-Deep Navy, Blue Spruce-Twilight Blue
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL
GENDER Women
Smartwool Merino 150 Base Layer 1/4 Zip - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Lightweight Base Layer
https://www.smartwool.com/

2.
Smartwool
Merino 150 Base Layer 1/4 Zip

Lightweight Base Layer

4  visitors like this
price from
$90.00
Our opinion:

Smartwool’s lightest weight baselayer is another option worth considering. It is made of Merino and nylon material to provide you with a comfortable feel. This base layer’s stretch merrow stitching design provides maximum comfort, range of motion, and fit.

Promising review:

I have been wearing my 150 baselayer for training for a mountain climb this May...The weight is perfect for under my soft shell and with my 50lb backpack...no drama with seams irritating me and having to shift around. Dries quickly and of course, doesn't smell like the synthetic pieces I have. I like it so much I bought it in a second color...would definitely purchase again.

by Lori

MATERIAL 87% Merino Wool, 13% Nylon
COLOR Indigo Blue - Plant Base Dye, Light Gray Heather
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL
GENDER Women
Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Hoodie - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Higher Neck Base Layer
https://www.smartwool.com/

3.
Smartwool
Merino 250 Base Layer Hoodie

Higher Neck Base Layer

7  visitors like this
price from
$94.50
Our opinion:

You can select the one you like from a variety of stunning color and pattern options. Unlike the previous base layers, which were made of a combination of materials, this base layer is made entirely of Merino wool fabric, so you can imagine how comfortable it is to wear. As you can see, it has a higher neck on the hood to provide additional neck coverage and warmth.

Promising review:

Keeps you warm and is super cosy

by Eric

MATERIAL 100% Merino Wool
COLOR Military Olive Mountain Scape-Black, Black-Charcoal, Golden Olive-Black
SIZE S, M, L, XL, XXL
GENDER Men
Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer 1/4 Zip - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Thermoregulation Base Layer
https://www.smartwool.com/

4.
Smartwool
Merino 250 Base Layer 1/4 Zip

Thermoregulation Base Layer

5  visitors like this
price from
$105.00
Our opinion:

This 100% Merino wool base layer, as the name suggests, has a center front zipper with a semi-locking slider for an extra cool and dry comfort. Don’t worry, it will keep you warm because it has thermoregulation, which is a great feature for dealing with cold and hot weather.

Promising review:

My go to base layer. Comfortable, soft against the skin. Warm and oder resisitant. Non absorbant. Whther hunting, skiing,hiking or just out doors. Washes and dries easily .Its perfect.

by John

MATERIAL 100% Merino Wool
COLOR Military Olive Heather-Black, Black, Charcoal Heather, Deep Navy, Woodsmoke Heather-Charcoal Heather
SIZE S, M, L, XL, XXL
GENDER Men
Arc'teryx Store MOTUS AR ZIP NECK LS MEN'S - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Base Layer with Moisture Management
https://arcteryx.com/

5.
Arc'teryx Store
MOTUS AR ZIP NECK LS MEN'S

Base Layer with Moisture Management

5  visitors like this
price from
$89.00
Our opinion:

Due to the obvious moisture management, this base layer is ideal for wearing in any weather, cold or hot. The Phasic™ AR II material wicks moisture away from the body while providing soft, comfortable thermal performance. It even has a deep front zipper for heat regulation and a tall collar to keep you warm.

Promising review:

... Believe me, could not make a better choice. Got a great feeling since the start, always the impression to get my skin warm enough, but not too much. The motus managed to keep me always dry, I tell you until the end. I simply love the high neck as keep me protected from the light breeze. ...

by DBGFBWBE

MATERIAL 100% polyester with FC0 yarn and DAO™ finish
COLOR Black Heather, Forcefield Heather, Anecdote Heather, Figment Heather
SIZE S, M, L, XL, XXL
GENDER Men
Triple Aught Design ALCHEMY HALF-ZIP - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Versatile Base Layer
https://tripleaughtdesign.com/

6.
Triple Aught Design
ALCHEMY HALF-ZIP

Versatile Base Layer

price from
$90.00
Our opinion:

Multi-climate. Multi-mission. Resilient. This baselayer will shield your body from any weather conditions that may arise. Yes, the merino wool material will provide you with a comfortable feeling. It can be worn as a base layer beneath your jersey or jacket, or as a light mid-layer in your layering system.

MATERIAL 69% Polyester/31% Merino Wool
COLOR 5 Options
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL
GENDER Men
Helly Hansen W HOD LIFA MERINO LIGHTWEIGHT - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Base Layer with Stay Warm Technology
https://www.hellyhansen.com/

7.
Helly Hansen
W HOD LIFA MERINO LIGHTWEIGHT

Base Layer with Stay Warm Technology

price from
$130.00
Our opinion:

Helly Hansen is here with a unique 2-in-1 base layer made of 100% merino wool and LIFA® Stay Warm Technology in an extremely lightweight 2 layer construction, so you can imagine how effective this base layer is in protecting your body in such cold weather. You can wear it for any activity that requires cold protection and ultimate comforts, such as skiing or snowboarding.

Promising review:

I bought the dark blue and I like the combination of warm zip neck and pop of color on the sleeves. I usually wear a 10-12 and the large fit well.

by Laurie C.

MATERIAL 100% Merino Wool exterior
COLOR Offwhite
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL
GENDER Women
Helly Hansen W LIFA MERINO MIDWEIGHT HOODIE - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Base Layer with Hoodie
https://www.hellyhansen.com/

8.
Helly Hansen
W LIFA MERINO MIDWEIGHT HOODIE

Base Layer with Hoodie

price from
$120.00
Our opinion:

Another Helly Hansen base layer with a two-layer construction for maximum comfort and warmth, but this time it includes a hood to ensure maximum warmth. It allows you to wear it as a base layer under your jacket or alone, giving you a warm feeling in such extreme cold.

Promising review:

This baselayer with the merino wool kept me warm during a recent hike. I was able to pull the well fitting hood up when I was up top of the hills. the fit is perfect and I like the aqua contrast stitching on the white exterior. The black stretch panels are very flattering. Color, construction, detailing are all excellent.

by Louise H.

MATERIAL 100% Merino Wool
COLOR Offwhite
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL
GENDER Women
Kari Traa Rose Half Zip Top - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Feminine Cut Base Layer
https://www.evo.com/

9.
Kari Traa
Rose Half Zip Top

Feminine Cut Base Layer

price from
$110.00
Our opinion:

This half-zip top base layer, which comes in three colors, can be your best friend when it comes to keeping your body warm in the winter. As you can see, it has a feminine cut that will definitely enhance your look if you wear it alone. You can’t deny the warmth and moisture-wicking properties of this one thanks to the merino wool material used.

MATERIAL 100% Wool
COLOR Syrup, Sail, Black
SIZE XS, S, M, L, XL
GENDER Women
Arc'teryx Store Rho AR Zip-Neck Long Underwear Top - Best Base Layers for Extreme Cold: Moisture-Wicking Base Layer
https://www.rei.com/

10.
Arc'teryx Store
Rho AR Zip-Neck Long Underwear Top

Moisture-Wicking Base Layer

1  visitors like this
price from
$145.00
Our opinion:

Comes with a thermally efficient zip-neck foundation, this base layer is perfect to wear in such cold weather or temperature since it guarantees your body to feel warm. Don’t worry, the fabric used is also moisture-wicking, so that you will stay cool in case you wear it in normal condition. You can’t doubt the comfort feel because it is designed with flatlock construction.

Promising review:

I recently purchased this fleece and I absolutely love it. This is one of my favourite Arc’teryx pieces, it’s so warm and fits snug to your body. This would be one of my top recommended products.

by Bre37

MATERIAL 90% polyester/10% elastane
COLOR n/a
SIZE n/a
GENDER Women's

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