Best Base Layer (2025): Ibex, Smartwool, and More

These brushed and stretchy unders are made from capilene, an insulating cloth spun from 100 percent recycled polyester. The synthetic threads execute astir connected par with wool. Capilene is besides conscionable astir arsenic comfortable, each portion being airy and quick-drying. Patagonia sells the basal layers successful 2 thicknesses: midweight and a heavier thermal weight. They travel successful men's and women's sizes, and the tops are disposable successful a crewneck oregon collared zip-neck. I tested these successful the autumn successful Minnesota and successful San Francisco, truthful I wore the midweight mentation with a crewneck top.

Taking vantage of the precision afforded by moving with synthetic fabric, Patagonia has made immoderate absorbing plan choices. The garments are creaseless connected the outside, and person a subtly embossed diamond grid signifier connected the inside. The institution says this diamond signifier creates small pockets that trap vigor and assistance wick moisture. That assertion is adjacent to intolerable to verify, different than to say: The cloth did support maine astir arsenic lukewarm arsenic merino wool.

Like astir Patagonia apparel, these acceptable a small looser than the aforesaid size would from different brands. Even though I thin to similar my basal layers snug against my tegument for maximum warmth, present I appreciated the other country successful the shoulders, successful the groin, and nether my arms. I wore them for 2 days consecutive connected a canoe camping trip—even sleeping successful them—and aft a lavation a week later, different 2 days commuting to and from my office. They didn't chafe oregon container out, and the elastic points ne'er pinched. After each multiday wear, they did stink a little—more than wool would successful the aforesaid scenario, but miles amended than different synthetics I've tried. If you're avoiding wool due to the fact that of allergies oregon due to the fact that you're eschewing carnal byproducts, this fair-trade certified two-piece is simply a coagulated alternative. —Michael Calore