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We put women's base layers to the test from Smartwool, Black Diamond, Icebreaker, Patagonia, Carhartt and more to find the warmest and most versatile options
We've bought and tested dozens of innovative women's base layers over the last 6 years. This updated review features 19 of the market's best options, tested side by side in all kinds of conditions. Across the globe, we have sailed high seas, scaled thousand-foot cliffs, skied multiple mountain ranges, run ultra-distance miles, and camped in these performance-oriented layers. Our team assesses each product across key performance factors like comfort, warmth, and breathability. Our field and in-house tests provide the insight and expert advice to help you find a next-to-skin layer that performs to meet your needs.
Powerful wicking and breathing, easy to layer, durable construction
Breathable, excellent thermoregulation, extra warmth with hood, easy to layer
Soft and stretchy fabric, excellent fit, versatile warmth, quality construction, quick drying, fantastic stand alone layer, hole in hood to reduce bulk
Exceptionally breathable, well-priced, doesn't smell, functional for all seasons
Layers well, affordable Merino wool option
Cons
Moderate warmth, fabric is itchy to some
Expensive, takes a few washes to increase next-to-skin comfort
Pricey, no thumb loops or stash pockets, fabric smells over time
See-through, lacks durability, pilling
Fails to impress overall, low warmth and breathability
Bottom Line
A lightweight base layer with breathability for aerobic activities and shoulder seasons
A top-notch lightweight performer featuring exceptional thermoregulation and breathability with an innovative Merino wool technology that gets softer with every use
This high quality synthetic design offers maximum warmth through versatile and thoughtful design features geared towards efficient cold weather performance
A low cost, lightweight Merino wool top that breathes well and doesn't hold on to stink
While we respect the lower price offering of this top, it failed to impress our testers in any significant area of performance
While our testers were initially skeptical of the Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Quarter Zip, we were ultimately impressed as this layer kept up with us during a variety of mountain adventures. When we first tried on the hoody, the fabric didn't feel as soft and cozy next to our skin as other layers featured in this review; however, after a few romps and washes, we noticed that it started to soften, and slowly this layer became our go-to for every mission from early morning trail runs to multi-pitch rock climbs.
This layer also grew on us thanks to the Black Diamond-specific Nuyarn Merino stretch technology that wraps the Merino wool fabric with a nylon core to increase strength and durability and improve wicking capabilities. We found this layer more versatile than the rest, thanks to a hood, a 1/4 zipper, and thumbholes which can all be utilized to maximize warmth. However, we recommend sizing up if you're in-between sizes, as this layer features a slim fit.
Hood, neck warmer, and full-face balaclava for versatile warmth
Durable and well-crafted
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks some breathability
Expensive
Holds more odor than Merino
We've tested versions of the Arc'teryx Rho over many years, and it still stands out as our go-to synthetic for all technical missions. The interior is fleece lined with wicking power that does a good job of moving moisture away from the skin. We love the fitted design that is stretchy and incredibly easy to layer, plus the neck warmer, hood, and full-face balaclava that offer versatile warmth and protection from the elements. The hood even has a small opening for a ponytail to reduce bulk. This is one of the most versatile base layer tops we've tested, performing well from ski tours in Colorado to mega rafting missions in the Grand Canyon. As is true with most synthetics, wear and tear is minimal, even after being put through the wringer. Tried, tested, and truly awesome.
To benefit from the increased levels of comfort and warmth due to the fleece lining on the interior of this base layer, you must sacrifice a certain amount of breathability. We suggest using this drawback to your advantage and wearing this layer as a stand-alone piece during the change of season to create a barrier between your sensitive skin and those cold north winds. This layer is also more expensive than other synthetic options; however, given that it is one of the most time-tested pieces that we've had the opportunity of using, the value of performance you get out of it is definitely worth the investment. The Rho Lightweight Hoody is best for someone seeking a synthetic layer that's durable, technical, and looks great.
The Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight is a high-performing Merino wool base layer whose features far exceed the modest price tag. Constructed with 84% Merino wool and 16% nylon, it is one of the softest base layers that we've tested, while the nylon increases both durability and structure. Naturally odor-free, this layer can be worn for weeks between washes, and the thoughtfully placed flatlock seams increase comfort and prevent chafing when shouldering a heavy backpack.
While we do not consider this a midweight as advertised, it is an exceptional lightweight garment that is easy to layer over the top of. The slim-fitting, versatile design effectively traps body heat when temperatures drop and dumps excess heat when you pick up the pace. While not the warmest layer that we've tested, this is a great choice for the base of your cold-weather layering system.
We love the UPF 50+ certified sun protection offered by these versatile thumb loops that also increase the ease of layering by holding the shirt in place when layering over top.
The REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew is a great choice for those seeking a highly functional synthetic base layer with an affordable price tag. This garment offers enough warmth for those in-between-season days and is available for a fraction of the cost of its top-performing synthetic competitors. It also has durable features such as flatlock seams and thumb loops that give us confidence this layer will be around for many seasons to come.
We were disappointed by the synthetic polyester blended fabric, as we noticed it retained odor almost immediately. And while the fabric successfully wicked moisture and sweat away from our skin, this layer couldn't efficiently release moisture through the tightly woven fabric, so it took longer to dry. This sometimes would mean sacrificing precious warmth during colder temps, so we do not recommend this layer for high output activities nor for the depths of winter. Overall, our testers were happy with the slim-fitting, durable design that kept us warm during the shoulder seasons or as the base of our layering system for moderately cold weather adventures.
The Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody is an excellent option for the consumer looking for style, function, and versatility. Crafted from 51% RWS-certified Merino wool and 49% recycled polyester, the unique 3D lofted knit design notably sets this layer apart from the rest. We love how the slim fit hugged our curves and kept its shape, even after multiple adventures without washing. Perhaps most notable is that the layer is incredibly versatile, functioning as more of a midweight warmth, thanks to the hood option and 3D knit weave technology, but within a lightweight layer. The Air Hoody offers an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio when compared to the other layers in this review.
One of our only complaints with this layer is that it can be a bit of a trick to layer due to its lofted fabric and slim fit — though this certainly isn't a dealbreaker. It is also expensive when compared to other more affordable options, but we were impressed with the superior comfort, enhanced breathability, eco-conscious blend of fabrics, and exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, making this our go-to for a lightweight performance layer.
The Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crewe quickly stood out from the competition thanks to its superior fit and super soft 100% Merino wool design. Ultrafine 18.9-micron fibers are tightly woven together to create a layer that successfully traps heat and wicks moisture away from the body. Our testers love the thoughtful design that includes strategically placed flatlock seams that increase comfort and durability and gusseted underarms to allow for better mobility.
Perhaps our biggest complaint about this crew is the limited breathability when layered in a system. The Oasis can wick sweat away from the body but has trouble releasing sweat from the fabric when not exposed to fresh air. We also couldn't help but notice the slower drying speed (one hour in the spring sun) during our spring testing period. That said, after evaluating several different crew designs and materials, this high-performing crew quickly climbed to the top of our list. We attribute this stellar performance to the soft yet durable Merino wool, a great fit that promotes mobility, and a durable construction that limits any chafing or friction while getting after it in the mountains.
Though this layer doesn't perform as well as its air-permeable synthetic competitors, we did appreciate the thicker fabric during ski tours early in the spring.
The Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip-Neck quickly stood apart from the competition in terms of warmth and breathability. Our lead tester loves this layer as a stand-alone piece for efficiently shedding sweat accumulated on fall trail runs as well as the base of her cold weather kit while rock climbing during those crisp October nights. While not a thermal weight as advertised, the polyester blended fabric and micro-grid fleece interior gave a memorable performance in terms of exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities.
Patagonia advertises a Polygiene odor control treatment for the Capilene Thermal, but we found this layer to retain body odor almost immediately, especially when used several days in a row. And while we appreciate the thumb loops in terms of layering ability, the low-quality construction (basically just an elastic band) doesn't inspire confidence they will last for the life of the base layer. That said, this layer offers excellent thermoregulation and breathability thanks to the air-permeable Polartec fabric and the long zip neck. These work together to effectively dump heat and excess sweat during those high-intensity mountain pursuits.
We love the versatility of this zip neck which helps to increase or release warmth generated during activity.
Credit: Trish Matheny
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Base layers are an important part of any backcountry mountain objective; we were impressed with the performance of the Oasis Crewe while riding Solar Bowl.
Credit: Steve Mace
Why You Should Trust Us
When making our selection, we take hours researching the best options on the market before selecting the very best and subjecting them to our rigorous side-by-side testing plan. We wear them everywhere we go and have tested them across the world, from the high glaciers of Alaska to the rainy and cool landscapes of Iceland. The base layer tops we test are used for a minimum of three months, and we continue to test them until they see an update throughout the year. We take these tops trail running, backpacking, rafting, climbing, splitboarding, and hiking to determine how each performs during unique experiences in the backcountry. Once we complete our field testing, we evaluate the durability of each layer, noting any tears or snags. Finally, we score across the same metrics to offer a comparative assessment based on our experience.
Our women's base layer testing is divided across five rating metrics:
Warmth (25% of total score weighting)
Breathability (20% weighting)
Comfort and Fit (20% weighting)
Durability (15% weighting)
Drying Speed (10% weighting)
Layering Ability (10% weighting)
We love the Capilene Air Crew as a slightly less warm option when compared to the hoody version, it also dries in a flash.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Our testing team is led by Amber King and Trish Matheny. As a seasoned gear reviewer, Amber spends her time backpacking into remote places, canyoneering through slots deep in the earth, and finding cool trails to run worldwide. Hardcore women she meets along her adventures become additional testers to provide unbiased, diverse, and genuine feedback on all the base layer tops we tested. After spending over a decade in the Tetons, Trish knows what she's looking for in base layer performance. An avid rock climber, trail runner, and splitboarder, she wears base layers frequently while exploring the Sierra Nevada Mountains and beyond.
Getting high up on some granite is a great way to test the durability and thermoregulation of a performance layer.
Base Layers drying in the sun with Mt. Tom in the background during our springtime drying tests.
Durable enough for a day of rock climbing wide cracks, this midweight layer is well-constructed and built to last.
Analysis and Test Results
A base layer top is an integral part of any women's outdoor wardrobe. This piece sits closest to the skin, wicks away moisture, and ultimately keeps you warm and comfortable while tackling summits or lounging around the chalet. The base layer tops we chose are composed of either synthetic materials, Merino wool, or a blend. No tops in this review contain cotton. Throughout testing, we rate each product using five key metrics: warmth, breathability, comfort and fit, layering ability, and durability.
Value
Wondering which tops offer the best performance relative to their price? We understand the importance of the return on your investment. Typically, the largest trade-off in this category lies in the materials used. Merino wool tends to cost more money than synthetic fabrics, and this higher price is passed on to the consumer. The Roman Trail Outfitters Merino Long Sleeve retails for less than half many of our top performers. However, its thin materials stretch out over time, and you end up sacrificing durability.
Though available for a fraction of the cost, the Roman Trail Merino does sacrifice some durability.
Credit: Trish Matheny
A couple of our favorite value-based purchases of all the garments that we've tested are the Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight and the REI Midweight Base Layer Crew. The Ridge Merino is on point with some of our top-performing base layers, while the REI Midweight offers incredible value in exchange for sufficient synthetic performance. However, it's also worth considering the long-term value of synthetic tops like the Arc'teryx Rho Lightweight Hoody. Its superior craftsmanship and high quality make it one of our top choices season after season of use, which reduces its total cost over time.
The Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight is a great layer for cool weather days of the spring and fall when worn alone and features super soft merino if wearing as the base of your cold weather kit.
Credit: Lindsey Fell
Warmth
How many times have you broken a sweat while hiking uphill, only to start shivering once you slow your pace? The base layer tops that offer the highest level of warmth are those that can properly regulate body temperature no matter the activity, whether you're riding the chairlift or Nordic skiing. Different tops offer different fabric weights, which contributes to overall warmth. In general, if you know you will be sitting around in cold weather, choose a thicker option. If you think you're going to be moving a lot more with minimal breaks, choose a thinner option to avoid overheating. A midweight base layer is typically a good compromise.
During our testing, we only reviewed lightweight and midweight models, plus one silkweight. Keep in mind that most of the layers listed here have different weight options. If you like the way a top sounds, check to see what other fabric weights are available.
Versatile warmth and sun protection make the Rho LT a great choice for alpine missions.
Credit: Lisa Coleman
When comparing fabrics, Merino wool stands out — it offers more insulating warmth and breathability, which equates to better thermoregulation overall. For example, the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino 1/4 Zip is among the warmest and most insulating base layers in this review, packing in 250 g/m² of Merino wool. The Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crewe is similar, with 200 g/m², making it a little less warm but not as thick. And not far behind is the Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino, which offers an exceptional range of thermoregulation in addition to added warmth thanks to the hood, within a very lightweight 150g/m² design.
The Oasis Crewe quickly became one of our favorites, warm enough to be worn on its own during spring training runs, just as the snow starts to melt.
Our testers love the versatility of a hood which allows the layer to trap essential heat and maximize warmth. The hood on the Solution 150 is fantastic.
Tops like the Ortovox 185 Rock'N'Wool (185 g/m²) and the Carhartt Base Force Heavyweight still receive high scores but offer just a little less warmth. Both are lighter options for excellent thermoregulation on high-output days like cross-country skiing or trail running. The Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody and the Patagonia Capilene Air Crew (147 g/m²) are other surprisingly warm contenders, especially considering their somewhat see-through design. These are Patagonia's warmest base layer options and do an excellent job of regulating body heat to keep you comfortable and dry. For even more versatility and stand-alone warmth, we recommend the Air Hoody, but the Crew is great for those days when you don't need the extra heat.
The Capilene Air Hoody is one of our favorite base layers thanks to its innovative 3D design which offered excellent comfort and thermoregulation.
Credit: Steve Mace
Most of the polyester tops we've tested don't offer the same "sitting around" warmth as Merino wool. Many are constructed with hollow polyester fibers. When it's cold in the morning, and you pull the top on, it won't feel as cozy as Merino wool simply because all the cold air is locked inside the fibers. However, once you get your body in motion, the layer will conceal the heat generated during your activity. When moving from warm to cold, tops like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew and Arc'teryx Rho Hoody will typically adapt to their environment more readily than Merino wool. Both of these options are warmer synthetic tops than the REI Co-op Silk V-Neck or Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino, for example, which are more breathable and not built for stand-alone warmth. Of them all, the Arc'teryx Rho is our favorite synthetic because of the built-in fleece liner that keeps the skin warm and cozy even after you stop moving. The latest iteration of this layer features a versatile design that offers a neck warmer, hoody, and a full-face balaclava to protect you from inclement weather and radiant sun exposure in the alpine.
The tightly woven diamond weave synthetic fabric on the Capilene Midweight kept us warm after the sun dipped behind the cliff.
Credit: Lisa Coleman
Breathability
This is the yang to warmth's yin. Without great breathability, you will not have much warmth during your cold-weather adventures. A key metric for thermoregulation, breathability defines how well the fabric allows heat to escape and how well it vents. When worn in a layered system, breathability enables fabrics to move moisture from the skin and through the fabric to the next layer, keeping your skin dry.
Choose lightweight fabric for any of the tops we reviewed if you want something that'll breathe easier. Short-sleeve options are also available sometimes, as are zip necks which offer more ventilation. If you run hot, lightweight fabric is the way to go, but if you get cold easily, opt for midweight construction.
Hiking uphill in Leavenworth, WA had us pushing the limits of breathability. One of the many ways we test our base layers.
Credit: Amber King
At the top of this metric was, surprisingly, the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip-Neck. Our testers were blown away by the wicking capabilities and fast drying speed of this impressive layer. Though not what we would typically consider a traditional thermal weight, due to its super lightweight and see-through design, the magic is in the breathability that optimizes warmth thanks to a micro-grid fleece interior and releasing sweat through the air permeable polyester fabric.
The slim fitting Capilene Thermal Weight is great when worn on its own or at the base of your layering kit. The long zip neck will help contain or release body heat through the breathable heat design based on current conditions.
Credit: Rebecca Church
Two other tops that stand out in this metric include the Roman Trail Outfitters Merino and the REI Co-op Silk V-Neck. The REI Silk V-neck wicks and breathes a little better than the Roman Trail Outfitter because it's ridiculously light (only 2.5 ounces) and has plenty of holes to allow ventilation through the fabric. Silk is also known for its superior wicking qualities. The Roman Outfitters is a little warmer, providing a wider range of thermoregulation, but it also vents well due to its loosely woven fabrics. We'd utilize both layers throughout the summer months but would leave the REI Co-op Silk at home during the winter. With a nicely layered system, the Roman Trail Outfitters also works well beneath a midweight fleece or jacket.
Thanks to loosely woven Merino wool, we love the Roman Trail Merino for spring skiing or for a little extra warmth during the summer months.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Essentially, the layers that excel at proper ventilation are those constructed from thinner materials and a fabric knit that isn't too tight for moisture to escape. The Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino is quite notable here. The stylish and strategically engineered ventilation panels throughout the design work to increase airflow and enhance breathability by featuring a tighter weave with a touch of elastane. The elastane helps to provide enough stretch to move with you during various activities. This midweight layer kept us warm enough during multi-pitch rock climbs in the fall while also dumping enough heat to get after it on long trail runs during the shoulder seasons.
Not only does this innovative design look cool, it also offers strategically placed ventilation panels to allow the layer to breathe and release moisture.
Credit: Steve Mace
The Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody and the Patagonia Capilene Air Crew feature a loose weave that does an impeccable job wicking and offloading moisture. The fibers are full of air which will keep you cool but aren't the best choice during the summer months because of the amount of insulation. However, throughout the colder seasons of the year, these layers are hard to beat due to their massive range of thermoregulation. The 100% synthetic construction of the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew is also quite breathable. Its diamond-grid architecture promotes great airflow with a face fabric that cuts the wind when worn independently.
The 3D knit weave in addition to the blended Capilene polyester fabric allow the Air Hoody to shed moisture and breathe efficiently.
Credit: Steve Mace
When spending long days rock climbing, our testers loved how well the Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino was able to keep us warm in the sun as well as cool in the shade. This layer features increased breathability through its Nuyarn Merino wool stretch technology and is a joy to wear.
The Solution is one of our go-to's for performance during mountain adventures. We love how well it breathes and how quickly it dries considering the mostly merino construction.
Credit: Steve Mace
Comfort and Fit
When testing for this metric, we assess each top to determine which fabric has the coziest and most versatile fit. This is perhaps the easiest metric to test for; all we have to do is record our notes while we hang around the campfire or enjoy a rest day. We also evaluate how the fabrics feel next to our skin after several days of wear without washing, so we can determine whether or not the feel of the fabric changes over time. In general, we love Merino wool tops with a fitted, stretchy design simply because they offer the maximum level of comfort.
After a few washes and some time on the trails, The Black Diamond Solution 150 Hoody became one of the most comfortable base layers in this review. The Black Diamond Solution features 78% Nuyarn Merino wool and 22% polyester to maintain strength and durability, with a bit of stretch, as well as flatlock hemlines. The Arc'teryx Rho is also notable thanks to its cozy, fleece-lined polyester and elastane material. We love that the latest iteration features a neck warmer, a hood with a small opening for a ponytail, and a balaclava for maximum cold-weather protection. The fit has changed dramatically from previous iterations — Arc'teryx scrapped the boxy fit and kangaroo pockets for a trim-fitting base layer meant to remain close to the body to minimize any unnecessary bulk. This trim fit also enhances the layer's ability to trap body heat generated during activity due to the lack of draft.
The Rho has a trim fit to hug the body without restricting full range of motion.
Credit: Trish Matheny
One other great contender for superior comfort is the Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody, whose innovative and seamless 3D knit weave construction conforms to the body and eliminates chafe points to enhance overall comfort.
Our testers love the slim fit of the Air Hoody which kept us comfortable while also keeping its shape during our extensive testing period.
Credit: Steve Mace
The Ortovox Rock'N'Wool is one of the softest wool options that we tested, featuring a lighter construction and 100% Merino wool sourced from Tasmania; we loved how soft the wool felt next to our skin. However, we were disappointed that the latest version of this shirt is designed with bulkier flatlock seams across both forearms. We found these seams to be distracting and uncomfortable, in addition to bunching beneath layers worn over the top. We hope future versions ditch the seemingly unnecessary thick seams and improve their placement because the wool itself is awesome.
We like the next-to-sin feel of the Ortovox Rock'n'Wool's fabric, but we are unimpressed with the location and thickness of the seams on the forearm and chest.
Credit: Toby Swimmer
Another super soft Merino wool option that stood out amongst the competition is the Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight. It features a very basic crew construction with strategically placed flatlock seams that reduce bulk and prevent chafing while carrying a heavy pack. Our testers love the long cut and slim fit that effectively trapped our body heat, as well as the discreet yet functional thumb loops that added warmth and structure to the overall design.
Our testers love the slim fit and ultra fine Merino wool that increased comfort next to skin without sacrificing durability on the Ridge Merino Aspect.
Credit: Lindsey Fell
When evaluating the fit of each base layer, we handed these shirts to a group of women that varied in height, weight, and body shape to offer the most objective recommendations possible. Some were tall, while others were short; some had lots of curves, while others had none. In our evaluations, tops with a stretchier and more voluminous fit proved to be the most versatile. We also looked at the relative lengths of the arms and torso to see which provided the best overall coverage. Our lead tester (5'6", 130 lbs) prefers size small in most of these tops but found the Black Diamond Solution 150, and the Kari Traa Rose Light Half Zip to fit better in size Medium.
Long Arms and Torso?
Need a shirt with a long torso and arms? Luckily we have a host of options. Of synthetic tops, the Arc'teryx Rho and Odlo Performance Wool Warm both have super stretchy fabric and a longer fit in the arms and torso. The Smartwool Intraknit Thermal, Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Crewe, and the Ridge Merino Aspect also feature a stretchy construction with plenty of length through the arms and extra fabric in the torso.
The length of the slim fit on the Smartwool Intraknit is slightly longer in the back than the front, offering adequate length in the torso. We love the way this top fits.
Credit: Steve Mace
Durability
The best base layers out there should last for you to receive the greatest return on your investment. A proper base layer shouldn't shrink, stretch out, pill, or fall apart after just a few months of use. Most importantly, a durable top shouldn't easily succumb to snags and tears after just a few times out on the trail. During our testing period, we shimmied through canyons and bushwhacked through forests to see if the fabric snagged or tore. We also wore each layer with a loaded backpack. After all of this, we inspect each product to evaluate the craftsmanship. In addition, we test each base layer continuously throughout the year and will update this section with our most current recommendations.
A Note on Odor
In all of our tests, the silk and synthetic shirts constructed of polyester retain more smell over time than Merino wool tops. Merino wool can be worn for multiple excursions without washing before odor becomes an issue. Despite a company's best efforts to develop odor-resistant fabrics with polyester fabrics, most will inevitably smell over time, even after washing. If you're self-conscious about a bad-smelling shirt, choose either Tencel or Merino wool.
Flatlock seams not only prevent any extra friction or chafing, but also help to enhance the durability of the naturally odor-free Merino wool design.
Credit: Trish Matheny
It's been many years since we first started testing the Arc'teryx Rho, and previous versions are still going strong. We have used and abused it while climbing, hiking, splitboarding, trail running, and canyoneering. After many long years of use, there are still no significant areas of wear and tear, and we expect the same to be true of the most current version. The high-quality design features a combination of Merrow and flatlock stitched seams that effectively hold the trim-fitting layer in place without limiting range of motion. Our only caveat is that the fabric retains a little smell. Aside from that, it has truly withstood the test of time and continues to exceed our expectations.
The highly durable merrow and flatlock seam construction hold the layer in place while the stretch polyester allows for full range of motion.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The Patagonia Capilene Midweight is a workhorse. The synthetic fibers are strong and retain their shape, even after being put through the wringer. The Midweight stands apart from other Patagonia options in this review due to the tighter weave of the diamond grid pattern. The Capilene Thermal Weight and Capilene Air Hoody and Crew options make us question their longevity — not for lack of quality, but due to their thinner, more air permeable and see-through designs that optimize breathability. Our only complaint about the Capilene Midweight and Thermal Weight is that the thumb loops lack the same quality as the rest of the layers — they are thin and don't inspire long-lasting confidence. Rounding out our synthetic durability favorites is the REI Co-op Midweight featuring reinforced flatlock seams as well as thicker, more comfortable thumb loops.
The thumb loops on this top left a bit to be desired, while they help hold the base layer in place while layering within a system, they are thin and lack durability.
Featuring a longer cut, thumb loops, and tightly woven fabric, the REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew offers enough warmth when worn alone or below other insulation.
Merino wool contenders are less durable than synthetic options, but they don't hold onto odor. Of these, the Kari Traa Rose Half Zip is the most durable. It has a tightly-knit face fabric that doesn't easily snag. The nylon fibers are shorter and have proven to be more durable and a better option for those needing a top for high-friction sports like canyoneering, bushwhacking, or rock climbing. We'd also like to highlight the Nuyarn stretch Merino wool found in the Black Diamond Solution 150 that impressed us during our winter testing period when we snagged our sleeve on a tree. After ripping a hole in the material, it didn't continue running throughout the length of the fabric like other more delicate Merino wool contenders in this review. The hole has remained small, allowing for continued use.
The versatile Solution 150 performed well in nearly every metric including the durability of the blended fabric.
Credit: Steve Mace
Drying Speed
When selecting a base layer for your next outdoor adventure, drying speed could truly make or break the decision. It's important that the layer shed moisture generated during activity while also drying quickly on the body when exposed to fresh air.
We immediately noticed a trend when we started recording drying speeds for each base layer. The synthetic or Merino wool and polyester blended layers offered the fastest drying speeds, much faster than their 100% Merino wool equivalents. We approached these tests from several different angles, including drying on a line, drying on the body, and drying overnight. Now we are confident to report back with our top performers.
We tested each and every base layer side by side in order to objectively determine the layers with the fastest drying speeds.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The Patagonia layers really knocked this metric out of the park. Whether drying on the line or on our body, the following layers delivered the fastest drying speeds. At only 37 minutes on the line and 25 minutes on the body, the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip-Neck was the fastest to dry. Recording the exact same drying speed of 37 minutes on the line was the Patagonia Capilene Air Crew, but it required a little longer drying speed next to our skin — 35 minutes to dry completely. Unsurprisingly, these two layers also boast some of the best breathability performance due to the porous fabric that allows air to flow through and wick moisture away from the skin. Another top performer was the Patagonia Capilene Air Hoody, which had a drying speed of 38 minutes on the line but only needed 30 minutes to dry completely on the body post activity.
This photo displays the top performers in our drying speed tests, which all happen to be from Patagonia.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Not too far behind the top-performing Patagonia layers are two of our favorite tops, the Black Diamond Solution Hoody with a drying speed of 47 minutes on the line and only 30 minutes on the body, as well as the Arc'teryx Rho Lightweight Hoody with a drying speed of 40 minutes on the line and 25 minutes on the body. Other impressive layers in this metric are the Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight and the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew with similar drying speeds at 49 minutes on the line and between 30-35 minutes on the body.
The Rho LT was one of the fastest to dry in the entire testing group.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Layering Ability
A good base layer should be versatile and easy to use within a layering system. While most long-underwear tops are presumably that "next-to-skin" layer, it is a bonus when you can wear a tank or tee beneath when conditions are expected to warm up. Not only that, but you want to ensure that you can throw layers on top and remove them without too much effort. Here, we evaluate the knit of the fabric and spend time trying on each one with different layers over the top. Base layers that perform best in this category feature slippery face fabrics, a thinner construction, and thumb loops.
Synthetic layers traditionally have more rigid fibers that, in combination, make for easy layering. The Rho Lightweight Hoody is one of the easier options to layer thanks to its frictionless face fabric that slides smoothly against even the fleeciest of mid-layers. The latest iteration features a much trimmer fit and minimal design that also improves layering by reducing bulk, especially in the hood, which features a small opening for a ponytail. The Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino features a streamlined design complete with thumbholes that help increase the ease of layering, as they hold the layer in place while putting on gloves or a midweight layer over the top.
The thumbholes help increase the ease of layering for the Merino Solution 150.
This unique hole in the hoody is meant for a pony tail so as to reduce any bulk within the hood.
The Patagonia Capilene Midweight and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip-Neck are both great layering options with built-in thumb loops that keep the arms in place, while the REI Co-op Midweight features a frictionless face fabric, in addition to a super stretchy design that hugs the body. All are great options in this category.
The REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew is a great choice when worn alone for fall weather days and it easily layers below a puffy for colder, shadier areas.
Credit: Lindsey Fell
Of the Merino wool competitors, thinner options like the Roman Trail Outfitters, Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino, and Ridge Merino Aspect are much easier to layer than thicker options. Layers like the Kari Traa Rose and the Smartwool Intraknit Thermal work well too, because of how fitted they are, making sliding layers over them easy. The Merino wool and polyester-blended fabric of the Patagonia Capilene Air Crew and Air Hoody features a grid pattern and lofted design that we found to be a little tricky to layer. Ultimately they were easiest to layer underneath the smooth and slippery fabrics of a puffy vest or jacket.
Though the grid pattern doesn't feature a smooth interface, we had no trouble layering the Air Hoody with our ski bibs and puffy jacket.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Conclusion
The clothing layer next to your skin is integral for keeping you warm and comfortable while exploring the great outdoors. Whether you're snuggling up next to the fire or shredding down a double black diamond on the ski hill, aim for one that performs to meet your individual needs. We've done the hard work and tested some of the best options available. We hope our recommendations help you select the best base layer for your next backcountry adventure.
We had some fun putting these layers to the ultimate test while meticulously evaluating warmth, breathability, comfort and fit, durability, drying speed, and layering ability
