For Your Athlete or Outdoorsman: Give the Best Base Layers

Below are my recommendation for the best I've found and TRIED - and I've tried a lot of 'em.  This is the time to buy these things -- while there are sales.

TIP: Check their sites to see the latest but once you have found what you like, Google around to see if you can find it for less - at places like Dick's Sports, EMS, Cabelas, Sierra Trading Post and the like.

It's money well spent because keeping warm is not a place you want to skimp on quality. And you will use them so often, it will be worth every penny. Now called Base Layers, here are some great finds:

1. I could NEVER wear wool without getting itchy, but Icebreaker's marino wool technology doesn't scratch at all. It keeps you warm but not hot, actually DOES wick away moisture and dries quickly. You can get them in very thin weight (200) or thicker (250) which doesn't feel bulky.

I suggest the Every Day long sleeve shirt and leggings for both men and women. Women can use the sizing chart which helps you figure if you want it to be a slim, or looser fit. They sit a little lower on your hips and have a little stretch in them. Call the company before you hit submit if you have size questions.

CLICK HERE for Women's EVERY Day - you can find crew or zip necks and tank tops and leggings on sale for about $52.00




CLICK HERE for Men's EveryDay choices - which include a long and short sleeved crew, a half zip turtleneck (shown) and leggings) on sale for $52+.


I was so impressed by these, the other weights and silhouettes should be great too.  

2. Smart wool socks are great for all the reasons stated above. I've tried silk liners, double socks, cotton all of which made my toes cold and clammy- and wool which was too itchy. I tried Smart Wool socks on advice and love them. And they make ones for the needs of different sports -  in consideration of both thickness and temperature. They can be expensive but are on sale on all over the place. Again, Sierra trading post or Dick's is a great place to get all these items at a lower price, but they may have limited selection. Still, try them first. Smart wool's site itself is not having a sale so far.

There are ankle socks, peds, thicker socks for hiking, running, etc... TIP: The array of choices can be dizzying. To narrow down the choices and pick right, think of what the person does athletically - or if they just need to keep warm in everyday life - then decide if you are sticking to dark or bright colors, patterns or almost no pattern. 

How about these knee socks (one of three colors) for $7.99 on sale from at Sierra Trading Post.


Another option: Wearing over-the-knee socks under relaxed fit jeans or cords and they are great when wearing shorter jackets at times you don't want base layers on. Also in brown/cream, $12.99 at Sierra Trading Post.



3. An alternate to wool, I've found Hot Chillys to be the best at two things: keeping you warm without making you hot once inside and being able to fit under your jeans without you feeling like the Michelin Man. Better than Underarmour - which is very good -  in my opinion.

Check out their site to see the latest, but you can also Google around for last years model at lower prices - or places like Sierra Trading Post which always has good sales and service.

Not to miss: Their Micro Elite stirrup pants, for Women and Men which keep them from riding up without feeling a thing. Great for skiing, snowshoeing, hiking... you name it!  $60. SAVE 30% off on CYBER Monday and Free shipping on orders over $45.


I've then bought the micro elite long sleeve crew neck to go with them.  Women's Micro Elite tops come in black or white and Mens come in black or silver - both at $60.


Write your suggestions or comments about Base Layers that you like (or don't like) in the comments!

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