Making sure you have the right layers when you are outside, whatever the activity, is crucial. A good Baselayer is essential to maintaining the body’s temperature, and will help in wicking moisture away from the skin to avoid dampness and cold affecting your performance. But how do you make sure you have the right baselayer for you, here are a couple of points you might want to consider when making your choice.

Sizing: a Baselayer is designed to be snug and tight fitting, as it traps air next to the skin which helps to insulate your body adding protection from the cold. Therefore, you should normally choose one in the same size that you normally wear for clothing, as they are made slightly smaller with this snug fit in mind.

Materials: Different fabric types have different properties that help to keep your body temperature at the best temperature whether you are outside in the cold or for when you are undertaking exercise for example. The most commonly used fabrics used are merino wool and synthetic fabrics. Cotton would not be used as its properties allow it to absorb moisture and take heat away from the body which would leave you cold and uncomfortable.

Synthetic material normally utilise polyester and polyester blends, giving you a lightweight garment, which is quick drying and will take moisture away from the skin to keep you dry.

Merino wool is a natural fibre with some surprising properties. The tiny air pockets in the wool itself draw heat away from the body to help prevent you overheating during prolonged exercise. They also have the ability to retain heat within the fibres to keep you warm, even when wet, and have natural UV resistance. Another advantage of this substance is that it processes anti-bacterial properties which means it can be worn for a number of days without beginning to smell too badly.

A recent development has been the introduction of bamboo extracts being combined with other fibres. This has been found to give a tighter fit and to hold its original shape better. It also gives a softer feel to the garment making them ideal for those with sensitive skin who find that wool irritates them.

Make sure you check out the full range of baselayers we have available, including long and short sleeved, and see which type suits you best so you stay comfortable for longer whatever the weather.