Your Thermal Base Layer Outfit Ideas

A thermal base layer is a thin layer of insulated and moisture wicking clothing that sits closest to skin. When combined with outer layers as part of an extended cold weather clothing set, thermal layers can make for an effective way to stay warm in the most extreme temperatures

How A Base Layer Keeps You Warm

Specialized materials, either synthetic ( capilene 1, capilene 2, capilene 3, & capilene 4 are material examples from Patagonia Inc.)or natural (wool/fleece) are designed to trap body heat inside. They also work as moisture wicking clothing that keeps the skin dry and comfortable.

We’ve all experienced painful chaffing of the skin, usually caused by walking around wearing wet clothes or improperly fitting clothes.

A hugging base layer can prevent that painful experience, which is bound to ruin an entire trip, by keeping moisture off the skin and by preventing other clothing from simply rubbing the wrong way.

Thermal base layers work when combined with outer layers and won’t be sufficient by themselves in cold temperatures. But you can remove layers right down to your base layer as you warm up. This is an example of how to use the layering system effectively.

Why You Shouldn’t Go Without

When in temperatures of 30°F or lower a thermal base layer can make the difference between being warm and comfortable or too chilled to enjoy any activities.

A comfortable base-layer is highly recommended.

When it’s too cold for shorts, but too warm for a mid layer while hiking and backpacking, I like to strip down to my thermals and on top of my thermal pants; I like to wear spandex shorts.

This keeps the thermals in place and keeps me from developing a nasty and painful chafe (caused by wearing the shorts by themselves) that could lead to ruining my entire adventure! And when I stop or it gets colder, it’s super easy to slip on a pair of lightweight fleece pants when some extra warmth is needed.

Recommended when you are going on any multi-day or overnight trip where temperatures can drop to 30 degrees F or less. Even if temps won’t drop until nightfall, you’ll be so glad to have your thermals on while snuggling in your sleeping bag because it will feel like you’re lying next to a wood stove. Oh so warm!

The Best Thermal Base Layers

There are several different kinds of thermals for a base layer. It all depends on your preferences.

Thermal tights –synthetic (man made) lightweight and hugs the skin. If you like to move light and fast, check these out.
Polyester base layer – They don’t smack to your skin like tights, but do stay close and always ready to keep you warm and dry. They are light and thin, but work amazingly well at insulating. Great for long or short trips and freezing cold temperatures.
Ultra Microfleece base layer – These are my favorite because they’re so soft and comfortable. They move moisture away from the skin while still in vapor form.
Dries quick and did I mention soft and comfortable? Smartwool has some good thermal tops and bottoms. The material is usually merino wool. Backpack high into the alpines and fear not ice nor snow!