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Guide
Base Layers
Base layers sit next to the skin. Choose fabric thickness and cut for your effort level and the clothing worn over them.
Key points
- For high activity, prioritise moisture transfer over maximum warmth.
- Compare merino and synthetics by use and care.
- The first layer should sit close without restricting movement.
- Choose leg length deliberately when wearing high boots.
Which option suits your use?
| Use | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| High activity | ChooseLight performance fabrics: Baselayer Tops | WhyThin fabrics can be sufficient at a fast pace. Outer layers must allow moisture to move onwards. |
| Cold days | ChooseWarm base layer: Baselayer Tops · Baselayer Bottoms | WhyCompare material and weight against activity level. A very warm fabric can be excessive on an ascent. |
| Gentler outings | ChooseMerino or a matching set: Baselayer Sets | WhyCheck fit at waist, underarms and knees. Fibre choice alone does not determine how it fits. |
| Children | ChooseWell-fitting top and bottoms: Baselayer Tops · Baselayer Bottoms | WhyNeck opening and cuffs should make dressing easy without restricting movement during play. |
What to look for when buying
| Question | In brief | Why |
|---|---|---|
| How intense? | In briefMatch weight to activity | WhyBody heat from hard effort needs a different first layer from long stops. Consider the outer layers too. |
| Which fabric? | In briefMerino, synthetic or blend | WhyMerino can limit odour; synthetics and blends can be constructed for rapid moisture transfer. |
| Which fit? | In briefClose without pressure | WhyFolds and bulky seams can become uncomfortable under other layers. Check raised arms and deep bends. |
| Which length? | In briefMatch to footwear | WhyA hem inside a close boot shaft can create pressure. Cropped legs finish above the shaft. |
Frequently asked questions
How do I check the fit?
Try the base layer under your next clothing layer. Raise your arms and squat: back and waist should stay covered without pressure from seams. Start with the maker’s size chart.
What does the maker’s fabric-weight figure mean?
Odlo distinguishes merino fabric weights of 160, 200 and 260 g/m². These are not universal temperature ratings.
How do I compare different designs?
Compare pieces intended for the same activity. Fabric weight, fibre content, cut and weather protection describe different properties. A higher figure is not automatically the better choice.
How do I care for it?
Follow the particular garment’s care label. Wool and blends may need different programmes from pure synthetics. Avoid unapproved treatments and dry as directed.
Last updated: October 2026
What for?
High activity
For sweaty sessions, a light construction often feels better than a particularly heavy base layer.
- Light performance fabrics
- Match weight to activity
- Close without pressure
Cold days
If you feel the cold readily, assess the warmth of the full outfit rather than the vest alone.
- Warm base layer
- Match weight to activity
- Close without pressure
Gentler outings
For long wear, consider odour behaviour and whether you can dry the base layer during your trip.
- Merino or a matching set
- Match weight to activity
- Close without pressure
Children
Children’s base layers should stretch when dressing and lie smoothly under outer clothing.
- Well-fitting top and bottoms
- Match weight to activity
- Close without pressure
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