Synthetic Baselayers

Best for: High-intensity activities and packing light.

Merino Wool Baselayers

Best for: Stop-start activities, multi-day trips and extra warmth in cold conditions.

Hybrid baselayers within a cold-weather layering system combine the qualities of each fabric, meaning they’re great for high-intensity climbs, sprints and other challenging activities. They might have Merino wool’s natural odour resistance, warmth and next-to-skin comfort as well as the durability and quick-drying performance of synthetic materials.

Can You Wear Underwear Under a Baselayer?

Baselayers are often called ‘second skin’ or ‘thermal underwear’. However, we still recommend wearing underwear like boxers and sports bras underneath your baselayer leggings or tops for additional support and comfort. Some underwear can also provide moisture-wicking abilities.

Can I Wear a Baselayer by Itself?

Of course, but this is completely up to you. Some runners and climbers start their route cold (also known as ‘starting cold’) in a baselayer top without extra layers. This helps them avoid overheating and sweating – especially on the incline, where they’ll soon warm up.

However, if you’re venturing out in extremely cold temperatures, exposed environments or temperamental conditions, we always recommend wearing additional layers or even packing them in a backpack in case you need them later on. You’ll need these layers when you stop to take a break. Because they’re lightweight, you can easily remove them and return to just your baselayer top again if needed.

We’ve come a long way since introducing our first polypropylene baselayers in 1980. Today, you’ll find moisture-wicking Capilene®️ recycled polyester in two different styles:

• Capilene®️ Midweight is our lightest option. It’s versatile and fast-drying.
  Best for: Outdoor activities (such as mountain biking or trail running) in mild temperatures.

• Capilene®️ Thermal Weight has a lofted, grid fabric that provides extra warmth, excellent breathability and odour control.
  Best for: Outdoor activities in cooler temperatures.

Remember, you’ll often use a baselayer under a midlayer. So, it’s important to factor in the warmth of your midlayer to determine what kind of baselayer you need for your cold-weather layering system.

Fleece midlayers

Best for: High-exertion activities in cold weather.

Down insulation

Best for: Cold, dry conditions when weight and space are at a premium.

Synthetic insulation

Best for: Retaining warmth in wetter conditions.

Active insulation

Best for: High-output activities in cold weather.

The Regulator® Technical fleece handles variable conditions and is a great addition to your cold-weather kit. This high-performing layer features a versatile, highly breathable knit fabric to keep you warm during challenging climbs at altitude, cold hikes in winter and more. For active insulation, our Nano-Air®️ products lead the way with exceptional breathability and temperature-regulating properties.

When choosing the best midlayer for cold weather, think about where and how you’ll use it – including the kinds of sports and activities you’re performing and the climate where you live. These are important considerations when selecting a midlayer. The final consideration is the silhouette. We have jackets, gilets, half-zips and more to help you dial in the exact system you need.

Soft shells

• Highly comfortable
• Partial stretch
• Light breathability
• Water-resistant, thanks to a DWR (durable water-repellent) finish on the exterior fabric

Wind shells

• Windproof
• Shed moisture and light rain, thanks to DWR coating
• Highly packable

Waterproof shells

• Deliver high-level protection against rain, wind, sleet and snow
• Highly breathable

Different shells provide varying levels of protection from wind and water. Most feature a DWR finish, which prevents saturation by beading up and dispersing surface moisture. This is especially important because if water penetrates your inner layers, you can become dangerously cold. As part of our commitment to minimise our footprint, 99% of Patagonia’s fabrics with water-repellent finishes are currently made without intentionally added PFAS.

Think about how important it is to have a waterproof outer layer when trying to find the right shell jacket for your layering system. If you live in the northern parts of the UK or go skiing in the Alps in heavy snowfall every winter, then a waterproof shell is vital. A soft shell may be enough if you value comfort and mobility and don’t expect heavy rain. However, if you want to pack light (and don’t have rain to worry about), then a wind shell is a better choice.