A good base layer is a great way for maintaining your body temperature and keeping you comfortable whatever outdoor activity you are undertaking. The wicking ability will take away moisture from the skin to stop cold and dampness affecting your performance.

By design the baselayer is supposed to be a tight fitting garment, so that it is able to trap air close to the skin and act as an insulator against the cold, so be aware of this when choosing your size.

There can be different fabrics used in the manufacture of this type of garment, and they all work in slightly different ways to keep your body temperature at the best level for the activity you are undertaking, whether its exercise or leisure orientated. For example a lot of the polyester based fabrics incorporate heat retention properties, as well as combining high wicking factors to keep you dry. Some use the natural abilities of Merino Wool which offers anti-bacterical properties co that it can be worn for longer without becoming too much in need of a clean. It also offers some natural protection against UV rays making them ideal for sunny but cold environments, which makes then especially usual if you are going skiing. However, many of the latest polyester based baselayers are now incorporating anti-bacterial properties so that they are becoming more and more multi functional.

The Dare 2b Ladies Climatise Long Sleeved Base Layer, for example, is crafted in a special blend of polyester and carbon bamboo fibres, this unique combination of synthetic and natural gives the garment superior wicking performance, natural anti-bacterial qualities and exceptional warmth, and offers quick drying properties as well.

Whatever activity you are undertaking, whether it is skiing, hiking or just enjoying the garden there is a baselayer that will suit and here at Outdoor Look we have a great range for you to choose from, and all from the leading names.