The WARMEST Base Layer

[ski diva]

The quest continues! So far I've struck out with Hot Chillys La Montanas (too big), the Patagonia Capilene 4 (just got them in the mail today, and don't like them), and the CW-X insulated tights (too long; I don't like them in my boots, and they're too compression fit to roll up).

Anyone else have any suggestions for a WARM base layer?

 

[Jenny]

I've only worn them twice so far but I like the Mountain Hardwear polartec powerstetch tights. They're the same as the Cloudveil Run Don't Walk but cheaper. Found some online for @$50 with shipping (backcountry.com maybe?) and they're $65 in the stores here.

 

[roheela]

I am a cold, cold person...pretty much ALWAYS freezing, especially when I'm on the mountain. I literally wear like four layers of clothing!

anyhow, for bottoms I've always worn my North Face fleece leggings and LOVED them. unfortunately, I went to get a new pair (since my leggings have also worn super thin), but to my disappointment, I found that TNF has changed their underlayers. :( needless to say, I've been on the hunt for new baselayers ever since. here's what I've come up with.

the tops I rotate between are Icebreaker, Smartwool and Craft. I love them all. honestly, I can't say enough about them. as for bottoms, my boyfriend bought me two pairs of Smartwool top-of-boot leggings from Steep & Cheap, so I gave them a go this past weekend in Whistler. they were fantastic! Smartwool offers three weights: micro, light, and mid. the ones my boyfriend bought me were the lightweight ones, and like I said, they were great. now I'm searching for a pair of the midweight ones...just in case we have any really frigid days.

 

[G Hoodie]

Another vote here for Smartwool. Long, last forever, super uber soft and comfy, and they don't stink like capeline when you get them sweaty. I have converted whole-heartedly to Smartwool EVERYTHING because they've worked the best for me. A little more pricey, but well worth it.

Icebreaker is another great soft wool blend as well.

 

[skilove1]

Patagonia and Smartwool

Definitely:

Patagonia Wool 3 or 4
Smartwool Midweight (that's their heaviest weight)

I wouldn't try anything else! Pure wool is always the best. Warmest, and best for trips where you won't be able to do laundry!

 

[KauaiShan]

Under Armour 3.0

I just got a pair of the Under Armour 3.0 bottoms and love them. They are much warmer than my previous Under Armour frosty tights. They are a "grid" pattern of thin microfleece on the inside and they are really soft.

 

[skidaup]

This was probably the best thread I have read on the whole forum, I had no idea that a wool base layer could make such as difference for me. I got 2 new tops and 1 bottom for Christmas and they are pure heaven, they don't get stinky and they are super warm. I have been wearing them hiking, running, skiing, and X country skiing, they are awesome. Thanks Diva's for sharing!

 

[skibum4ever]

I have Smartwool and Icebreaker Merino Wool in several thicknesses, tops and bottoms. They work real well. But I also have the CW-X Insulated which have been doing the job the last few really cold days in Colorado. I can roll them up just enough that they do not cause any discomfort in my ski boots.

 

[ski diva]

FINALLY, I found a warm baselayer I'm happy with. It's Mountain Hardware's Power Stretch Tight. Very warm, comfortable, and they fit!

The search had ended.

 

[Jenny]

FINALLY, I found a warm baselayer I'm happy with. It's Mountain Hardware's Power Stretch Tight. Very warm, comfortable, and they fit!

The search had ended.

Yep - those are the ones! Great aren't they?