Ski Specific Base Layers: What You Need To Know
Your Base Layer is your “foundation/Layer 1” piece for for skiing, and is essential for staying warm, dry, and comfortable for a day on the slopes. Base layers are your first line of defence against the cold especially when the conditions change rapidly as they often do up the mountains. But a Base Layer is not just for the upper half of the body; leggings next to the skin are also a Base Layer. Never lose sight of the lower half of your body for managing temperature. A good and appropriate Base Layer, will work to regulate your body temperature without over-heating and manage your body’s inevitable moisture production {wicking} and will provide a “Base” for layering over the top. This brief article endeavours to briefly summarise the core essentials when choosing a ski base layer.
Even though you’re seeking something for what could be extreme cold, it’s not all about achieving warmth exclusively through thickness and weight. You need to understand what your Base Layer is for AND appreciate how you specifically operate as a skier/boarder from an extreme skier generating high heat and moisture to a passive low level performer who’s moisture content tends to come in a glass! This short article is designed to help you make that decision.
- Ski Base Layers – What Are They For?
Ski Base layers, like any base layer for any activity, are designed to sit directly next to your skin and perform two primary functions: Moisture Control {wicking} and Thermal Regulation. They help to wick sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and to regulate your body temperature.
- Fabric Choice
There are many different fabrics available in this arena and each fabric usually has its merits.
- Cotton: DON’T EVEN GO THERE. Avoid it like the plague!
- Polyamide/ Nylon: Quick-drying, long-lasting, and very soft, these fabrics are often more affordable than wool options. They are exceptional at moisture management and are suitable for high-intensity activities such as off-piste and are popular with extreme skiers. Do remember though, these are made of oil! It is simply the nature of synthetic fibres.
- Merino Wool: Renowned for its excellent temperature-regulating capabilities, its ability to retain and hold moisture off the skin and its natural odour-resistant capabilities, it’s soft next to the skin, very breathable, and ideal for a wide range of temperatures. It is also available in various GSM {Grams pr Square Metre} weights thereby offering the wearer a choice of thermal capabilities.
- Fabric Blends: Combining wool {usually Merino but not always} and synthetic fibres and can offer the best of both worlds, providing, thermal regulation, on-body comfort, moisture management and greater durability than pure wool.
- Fitting and Comfort
The fit of your base layer can impact on its performance. Too loose and it won’t perform as well as it could and too tight it won’t retain heat as well as it should. You should go for the Goldilocks fit; Close Fitted.
- Close Fitting: Base layers should fit snugly against your skin to efficiently wick moisture and provide the necessary thermal regulation. Whilst they should be close-fitting they should not be restrictive.
- Seams: Look for base layers with flat or minimal seams or seamless to prevent chafing at key contact points especially if you’re carrying a back pack for example. This is even more the case for Thermal Tights.
- Moisture Management and Fabric Breathability
Effective moisture control is crucial for skiing. That’s not just sweat but also condensation build up: those micro droplets you see on your snood or beanie hat…..that’s condensation as much as snow spray.
- Moisture-Wicking: Ensure the base layer fabric draws sweat away from your skin and evaporates it quickly. Most will…..Cotton won’t!
- Breathability: Again most fabrics will have this characteristic but ensure you choose fabrics that allow air to circulate and continue to the outside of your layering system and prevent overheating. It’s pointless having a good base layer with a bin liner mid-layer…..you’ll keep all moisture content next to your skin.
- Additional Features
Some base layers come with added features for enhanced performance and comfort. Most aren’t essential but some are nice to have.
- Thumb Loop Cuffs: Help keep sleeves in place and prevent snow from getting in. They also don’t stop gloves being put on and off.
- Half Zip Necklines: Allow for easy ventilation and helps temperature control by offering a heat-dumping option.
- Layering Beyond the Base
Remember, base layers are just part one of your skiing outfit {plus underwear of course in most cases as the true first layer}. They should be complemented with appropriate performance mid-layers and outer layers for complete protection. Ensure your base layer compliments the rest of your ski gear for best performance.
Summary
Choosing the right base layer for skiing is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the slopes. Remember also, these items are not just for skiing, you should select something that has a wider use if only for commercial reasons. But by understanding you as a skier, the different fabric makeup and key garment features, you can find the perfect base layer for you to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable during your skiing adventures. So take a look at our extensive range of Ski Base Layers for Men, Women and Kids for that perfect Ski Base Layer.