10 Reviews: Best Base Layers for Hiking (Apr 2024)

This time, Smartwool offered the innovative Intraknit™ Merino 200 1/4 Zip, which was created specifically for every active man out there. This base layer is made not only of merino wool for extra warmth but also of polyester for quick-drying, allowing your body to stay cool even after long hours of snowboarding.

Super comfortable...so comfortable I wear them as much as much as I can.

by Nate

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.

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

Helly Hansen, a well-known brand, is here with this midweight base layer that is ideal for midwinter conditions, so you can add it to your hiking gear to keep your body warm. This base layer can regulate body temperature and is breathable since it is made of merino wool and has dual-layer material features. Thanks to the half-zip front design, you can easily put it on and take it off.

Continue with this classic style base layer, which has a super-soft texture to your skin and can be worn comfortably. It also has Backpack-friendly raglan construction, which makes it ideal for hiking. It will keep you warm but not overheated, allowing you to enjoy your activities.

Excellent quality, perfect fit, lightweight yet warm

by Monika T.

This base layer, which includes Polygiene technology, will keep your body fresh while hiking. It has a close-fit hood with a high collar for sun protection, making it an excellent addition to your hiking gear. Wait, it even has thumb loops for maximum cold and sun protection.

Fantastic addition for climbing , trekking, alpine climbing. Fast drying and soft. Great to use in high uv areas to protect face and head. Also great in warmer climates when camping. Very impressed

by Jarron G.

This base layer is made of 51% RWS-certified merino wool and 49% recycled polyester, providing complete body protection. It’s moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and dries quickly, so you can imagine how comfortable it is to wear.

Surprised with how warm yet how light this layer is! Fit is great and truly have been impressed with how it breathes but still keeps me warm. Once again, nice work Patagonia!

by CLAIRE

This baselayer will definitely protect your body by covering your hand’s thanks to the elastic thumbholes. It also has a flatlock seam and rib-knit collar with internal neck tape for chafe-free comfort, as well as raglan shoulder seams and offset side seams that lay smoothly beneath pack straps.

Perfect for cooler days on its own or over a capilene short sleeve for days with varying temps. Fits nicely, not too baggy or tight, thumb loops internally are great and help with gloves and layering. Dries quickly.

by spicyolives

Then there’s this merino jersey fabric, which provides supersoft, next-to-skin comfort, incredible breathability, and natural odor resistance, so you can see how appealing this one is. Not only that, but this base layer has offset shoulder seams and flatlock stitching for your comfort, so you won’t have to worry about chafing skin even if you wear it for a long time.

Soft, warm and not scratchy, a perfect top for layering.

by Sheila99

The next layer is a breathable base layer that keeps you cool by quickly drying your sweat. It’s a lightweight and versatile base layer that you can wear however you want, whether as a layer or on its own. Premium material with stretch comfort allows you to wear it for long periods of time without feeling bulky.

I probably have 15 of these tops. Great as a midlayer skiing or just around town under a jacket during the fall and winter. Highly recommended.

by Dave C.

Under Armour, a well-known activewear brand offers this mock-neck base layer made of dual-layer four-way stretch fabric to help you fight the cold. It even has a moisture transport system, so it will keep you cool if you wear it on a daily basis. You won’t have to worry about the odor bothering you since this base layer uses anti-odor technology, allowing you to do your activity with confidence.

Wear this on cold days skiing and love the mock turtleneck on it. Perfect baselayer to go under a thermal and a jacket. And as always with Under Armour, the material is top quality.

by Kyle Scagnelli