Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Colorblock Tight
Best leggings
Baselayer Reviews
Good baselayers are not only essential for backpacking excursions, they are just as practical for a run in the park or an outdoor market trip. Backpacker tests a wide range of styles and fabrics to find out which baselayers perform best in different active and everyday life situations. We check for comfort, durability, moisture wicking, and other vital performance features.
Deal of the Week: Smartwool IntraKnit Merino 200 Crew Top
This breathable baselayer is designed for performance in every season.
Latest in Baselayer Reviews
Beyond Clothing K2 Celeris Pullover and Long John
Most versatile baselayer
First Lite Men’s Wick Longsleeve Crew
Best wicking
Woolx Merino Blizzard ¼ Zip
Warmest baselayer
Montbell Super Merino Wool Light Weight Round Neck
Best value baselayer
Point 6 Zip Front Top
Most durable wool
Ortovox 230 Merino Competition Zip Neck
Best for expeditions
Smartwool Intraknit Merino 250 Thermal ¼ Zip
Best cold-weather wicking
Ridge Merino Aspect Highneck
Women's baselayer pick
Outdoor Research Vigor Quarter Zip
Most versatile top
Gore Wear X7 Partial Gore-Tex Unfinium Tights
Most versatile bottoms
Gear of the Week: Smartwool Intraknit Merino 200 Baselayers
Unique design makes these layers extra-breathable.
The Best Base Layers for Backpackers
Your warmth strategy starts with your next-to-skin layer. Pick the right one.
Smartwool Merino 250 Asym Bottom
Women’s pick
Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Seamless ½ Zip and Pants
Best wicking
The North Face Wool Baselayer Tight
Best ski bottoms