The Best Base Layers 2025/26

The right base layers are incredibly important for anyone on the slopes. They keep your body temperature in check, wick away sweat, and stop those dreaded chills. In this guide, we’ll break down this year’s best base layers, with options for all budgets and performance needs.

What to Look for in a Baselayer

Choosing the perfect baselayer isn’t just about picking the warmest one—it’s about performance. Keep an eye out for these key features when making your choice:

Moisture-Wicking: Prevents sweat from sticking to your skin.
Breathability: Regulates body temperature, keeping you cool under layers.
Fast-Drying: Ensures moisture doesn’t build up and make you cold.
Anti-Odor Properties: Keeps you fresh after a long day on the slopes.
Compression Technology: Reduces muscle fatigue, especially during those grueling multi-day trips.

Top Base Layers of 2025

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best base layers on the market, covering sophisticated designs, performance-driven features, and even style for après-ski.

1. My Sunday Ski (Racer Stripe Base Layer Set)

Price: £85 for the set
Material: Sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and odor-resistant fabric.
Key Features: A high-neck, slim-fit design combined with high-rise stretchy leggings makes this set as functional as it is fashionable. Perfect for on-slope performance or off-slope lounging.
Best For: Skiers who want stylish versatility.
Stockist: Available at My Sunday Ski.

2. Patagonia Capilene

Price: £160 (complete set) Tops available as crew (£80) or 1/4 zip (£90); Bottoms (£90)
Material: Polartec® Power Grid fabric with HeiQ® Pure odor control.
Key Features: Flatlock and offset shoulder seams for comfort, Fair Trade Certified production, and excellent breathability and warmth.
Best For: Eco-conscious skiers looking for top-tier performance.
Stockist: Shop at Patagonia.

3. Artilect Men’s A/SYS-1 M-Boulder (125)

Price: £65–£90 (per piece)
Material: 85% Nuyarn® merino wool and 15% nylon for durability.
Key Features: Quick-drying and incredibly lightweight, with no-chafe seams and gusseted armpits for added mobility.
Best For: Skiers who prioritise comfort and durability in extreme conditions.
Stockist: Available at Artilect.

4. Salomon Essential Seamless

Price: £70 (top), £70 (pants) — with 30% discounts available!
Material: Breathable, stretchy fabric with MotionFit construction.
Key Features: Slim fit and lightweight at only 105g, making it perfect for layering without adding bulk.
Best For: Multi-sport adventurers seeking value and functionality.
Stockist: Shop the collection at Salomon.

5. Sloobie (Vail Thermal Base Layer Top)

Price: £135 (top only)
Material: Sweat-wicking fabric with integrated shapewear technology.
Key Features: Stylish yet functional; the seamless design ensures a flattering fit for skiing and après-ski chic.
Best For: Style-conscious skiers who don’t want to compromise on performance.
Stockist: Find it at Sloobie.

6. Eivy Ice Cold Base Layer (Winter Blossom)

Price: £80 (top), £70 (pants)
Material: Brushed 4-way stretch fabric, made of 88% recycled polyester.
Key Features: Fleece-lined neck warmer, flatlock seams for no chafing, and UPF 50+ sun protection—plus it comes in recyclable packaging!
Best For: Sustainable skiers looking for standout designs.
Stockist: Available at Eivy.

7. Mons Royale (Cascade Women’s, Olympus Men’s)

Price: £70–£120 (tops), £60–£100 (pants)
Material: Merino wool with varying weights (180gsm Cascade and 250gsm Olympus).
Key Features: Merino mesh underarm panels, thumb loops, and a warm yet durable fit. Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.
Best For: Cold-weather skiers who need warmth without bulky layers.
Stockist: Shop at Mons Royale.

8. Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew

Price: £100–£115
Material: Made from 100% Merino wool with a midweight 250gsm thickness, this quality material is known for its temperature regulation, moisture-wicking properties, and natural softness. Merino wool excels at keeping you warm in cold conditions without overheating or feeling heavy.
Key Features: The base layer features a thoughtfully designed crewneck for extra comfort and easy layering. With its slim fit, it sits close to the body, providing flexibility and excellent thermal insulation. Flatlock seams prevent chafing, making it ideal for long days on the slopes, while the odour-resistant properties of Merino wool ensure you stay fresh from your first run to après-ski gatherings.
Best For: Skiers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable base layer for consistent warmth, even in challenging weather. Perfect for multi-day trips or individuals seeking a combination of comfort, durability, and high performance during active pursuits.
Stockist: Shop at Smartwool.

9. Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew

Price: £100–£115
Material: Crafted from 100% Merino wool with a midweight 250gsm thickness, this base layer is designed for optimum performance. Merino wool delivers excellent temperature regulation, naturally wicks moisture, and provides unmatched softness. Its high-quality construction ensures you stay warm without feeling weighed down, even during vigorous activities.
Key Features: Featuring a versatile and comfortable crewneck, this base layer offers a snug fit that layers seamlessly under jackets or other outerwear. Flatlock seams minimise chafing, enhancing comfort for all-day wear. The natural odour-resistance of Merino wool keeps you feeling fresh, making it perfect for intense skiing sessions or extended outdoor adventures.
Best For: Cold-weather skiers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable and comfortable base layer to retain warmth while allowing for active movement. Ideal for those who demand durability, versatility, and superior comfort, whether on the slopes or exploring winter trails.
Stockist: Shop at Smartwool.

10. Women’s Merino 200 Oasis Thermal Leggings

Price: £90–£100
Material: Constructed from 100% Merino wool with a 200gsm weight, these leggings are lightweight yet highly effective at regulating body temperature. The Merino wool naturally wicks moisture, adds breathability, and feels incredibly soft against the skin. Its durability ensures long-lasting performance, even with repeated use.
Key Features: Designed with a slim fit for ease of layering, the leggings feature a brushed elastic waistband for added comfort. Flatlock seams prevent chafing, ensuring they remain comfortable during all-day wear. The fabric is naturally odour-resistant, making these leggings perfect for multi-day adventures. Their versatile design is equally suited for wearing under ski trousers or as loungewear after a big day on the slopes.
Best For: Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts looking for a reliable base layer to provide warmth and comfort in cold conditions. Great for those who value high-performance gear that’s soft, versatile, and easy to care for.
Stockist: Shop at Icebreaker.

11. Merino 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top

Price: £85–£100
Material: Made from 100% Merino wool with a 200gsm weight, this top delivers lightweight warmth and exceptional breathability. The natural moisture-wicking properties keep you dry, while its odour-resistant benefits make it a superb option for extended wear. Merino wool is renowned for its softness, offering all-day comfort without irritation.
Key Features: With a slim fit designed for layering, this thermal top includes underarm gussets for increased mobility and flatlock seams to eliminate chafing. The crew neckline makes it easy to pair with other layers, and its classic design ensures versatility. Perfect for high-performance athletes or casual skiers, it combines durability with stylish functionality.
Best For: Designed for skiers, hikers, and anyone who values lightweight warmth in colder climates. Ideal for layering under outerwear or wearing on its own during milder days, it’s a go-to piece for both active pursuits and relaxed après-ski moments.
Stockist: Shop at Icebreaker.

12. Ski Targeted Cushion OTC Socks

Price: £30–£35
Material: Made with a blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane, these socks provide a perfect mix of warmth, durability, and stretch. Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking and odour-resistant, keeping your feet dry and fresh during long days on the slopes.
Key Features: These over-the-calf socks are designed with targeted cushioning in key areas to maximise comfort while wearing ski boots. The snug fit prevents any slippage, and the seamless toe reduces the likelihood of blisters. With body-mapped mesh zones, they ensure excellent breathability, helping regulate temperature even during high-intensity skiing.
Best For: Skiers of all levels looking for reliable, comfortable socks to enhance performance and reduce fatigue, especially during full days on snow. Perfect for those wanting a mix of technical performance and all-day comfort.
Stockist: Shop at Smartwool.

Pros and Cons

Each of these base layers excels in different aspects of performance, style, and budget. Here’s a quick overview:

Pros

My Sunday Ski: Affordable and stylish; great for casual and athletic use.
Patagonia Capilene: Ethical and high-performance.
Artilect: Superior durability and lightweight warmth.
Salomon Essential Seamless: Excellent value with frequent discounts.
Sloobie Vail: A seamless blend of function and style.
Eivy Ice Cold: Outstanding sustainability credentials.
Mons Royale: Warmth and comfort optimised for cold climates.

Cons

My Sunday Ski: Limited to a small range of designs.
Patagonia Capilene: Pricey for a full set.
Artilect: Higher cost for single pieces.
Salomon Essential Seamless: May feel thin in extremely cold conditions.
Sloobie Vail: Expensive, considering it’s just the top layer.
Eivy Ice Cold: Not the warmest option in deep powder settings.
Mons Royale: Can be bulkier than other options.

From value picks like Salomon’s Essential Seamless to high-performance options like Patagonia’s Capilene, there’s something here for every skier’s needs and budget.

InTheSnow Gear Guide

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