Best Base Layers for Skiing in 2022

Last updated 23. March 2022

When you ski or practice pother outdoor winter sports, good clothing is what will keep you warm and comfortable, but also what will protect you if you fall. Your skiing pants or thick ski jacket may not be enough for truly chilly days or for when you plan to spend hours at a time outside, and that’s when you’ll need the best ski base layer as backup!

Your skiing thermals need to be comfortable, fit well, be stretchy enough to allow you to move freely, breathe and much more, and this is a guide to some of the best ski base layers currently available.

MyProScooter has done the research and tested products to find the best that there are, to help you out when choosing your next set of skiing base layers.

View The Best Base Layer for Skiing Below

1. ThermaJane Women’s Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear

ThermaJane Women's Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear

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If you are looking for the best base layer for skiing, this great looking and functional skiing base layers are worth having a look at! They come in 8 different colors and are made with 92% extra soft polyester and 8% spandex for ultimate stretching abilities, which provides you with an exact and highly comfortable fit.

It is a two-piece skiing base layer that you can wear at home when you cozy up on the couch, or when you hit the slopes or engage in sports and leisure activities in the wintertime. These are the best base layers for skiing and anything else you might want to do on your time off!

Pros:
+ Warm, soft and stretchy material
+ Two-piece with a long-sleeved shirt
+ Multiple color options
+ Exceptional body-tight fit

Why We Like It – The combination of two materials make this ski baselayer extremely well-fitting, something that means you can wear it effortlessly and comfortably under your regular clothes or skiing gear.


2. ColdPruf Men’s Platinum II Performance Base Layer Pant

ColdPruf Men's Platinum II Performance Base Layer Pant

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Sometimes, basic is best, and this high-quality ski base layer comes in black and gray and goes perfectly under your skiing clothes. This base layer for skiing has two separate Merino wool layers, and they work to trap the heat between the two, to keep you comfortable and warm while also allowing your skin to breathe.

Ski base layers are what will make your outing a pleasant experience, even when the temperatures are dropping, and you can wear them around the house once you get back home. The ColdPruf Technical Fiber and Silvadure technologies are what make these base layers for skiing so unique, as it prevents bad odor from becoming an issue when you are being active.

Pros:
+ Non-itch waistband
+ With ColdPruf Technical Fiber
+ Silvadure technologies
+ Minimizes unpleasant odor

Why We Like It – Sweat and bad odor is a problem when you are outside doing sports, and these men’s ski base layers are designed and developed for this specific purpose – to prevent unpleasant smells.


3. FITEXTREME Mens MAXHEAT Underwear

FITEXTREME Mens MAXHEAT Underwear

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This is the best layer for skiing, camping, hiking and for hanging around the house, as they are incredibly comfortable and accommodating to all body types. They are lightweight, which makes them perfect for traveling and for putting in your hiking backpack when heading out for an adventure, and the fleece lining provides warmth and softness, and the moisture-wicking performance makes sure sweat is transported away from the body to keep you dry.

The four-way stretch offers complete freedom of movement, and the compression fit provides a tightening effect that makes you look slimmer and more in shape, without being uncomfortable.

Pros:
+ Flatlock sticking and 4-way stretch
+ Ultra-soft fleece lining
+ Optimized quick-dry fabric
+ Moisture-wicking performance

Why We Like It – Stylish, comfortable and lightweight – everything you need when shopping for thermal clothing for skiing.


4. HEROBIKER Men Thermal Underwear

HEROBIKER Men Thermal Underwear

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When you put on this snowboard base layer, you will ask yourself why you took so long to get them! They are unlike many other products due to the highly breathable material, which is also moisture-wicking and machine washable.

Use these snowboarding base layers for alpine skiing, when spending time outside with friends, for hiking and camping, or when you go for a ride on your motorcycle! There are many times when a jacket might not be enough to keep you warm, or you could use them on your day off when you aren’t planning to leave the house at all.

Get them in black, dark gray, light gray, blue or white, or invest in one pair in each color to make sure you never have to feel cold ever again.

Pros:
+ Four colors to choose from
+ Great for any occasion
+ Flatlock stitching for comfort
+ Soft and designed to prevent chafing

Why We Like It – These ski thermals can be used for so much more than just skiing, and the shirt can be used on its own as a snug sport’s shirt for running and more.


5. Men’s Thermal Underwear Set

Men’s Thermal Underwear Set

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Slide into these pre-shrunk skiing thermals and discover a whole new level of comfort! The elastic waist keeps these ski underlayers right in place also for sports like running or hiking, and the waffle knit material keeps you warm for hours at a time.

Having a snowboarding baselayer such as this at your disposal makes the winter months a lot more fun, and it also gives you a comfortable outfit to wear when you are hanging around the house after work and on days off.

They are made with 100% quality polyester, which is easy to wash in the washing machine after an outdoor adventure, and they dry fast. The lightweight material also makes them ideal for bringing with you when you travel, or to pack in your daypack when you are unsure of what weather you might end up facing.

Pros:
+ Made with 100% polyester
+ Fly opening and elastic waistband
+ Five colors to choose from
+ Cozy waffle-knit material

Why We Like It – These snow base layers are perfect for traveling with, both if you opt for wearing them under your clothes thanks to the comfort level, but also when packing them in your luggage as they are lightweight and take up very little space.


6. Duofold Men’s Mid-Weight Wicking

Duofold Men's Mid-Weight Wicking

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The pull-on closure means you won’t waste any time when taking this snowboarding base layer off or when putting it on, and you can change quickly in and out of them also if you are already out on your adventure.

The lightweight material makes them perfect for carrying with you in your hiking backpack on days when you suspect it might get chilly, and you will barely notice wearing them underneath your regular clothes.

60% cotton and 40% polyester creates the ultimate material blend for outdoor activities, and it will keep you warm and cozy whether you are out in the cold or just snuggling up on the couch with a good movie. This snowboard base layer is available in black, white, red and navy.

Pros:
+ C Vaping Technology to wick away moisture
+ Unique two-ply cotton blend material
+ No-hassle pull-on closure
+ With a two-ply cotton blend

Why We Like It – The moisture-wicking waistband and the C Vaping Technology makes these the best thermals for skiing and other outdoor activities, as they keep you warm without locking in sweat.


7. TSLA Men’s Mock Long-Sleeved

TSLA Men's Mock Long-Sleeved

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If you usually struggle to find a color option you like when shopping for snowboard base layers, as many only come in black, gray and brown. With these, you will have almost any option you like, as there are more than 40 different colors to choose from.

The non-abrasion fabric is both durable and highly elastic, and the two-way air circulation allows for your skin to breathe. It transports moisture away from the body, dries quickly and can be washed in a washing machine after extensive use. A product like this will also keep your skin from being harmed by the sun, by stopping them with up to 99%.

Pros:
+ Protects your skin from harmful sun rays
+ With two-way air circulation
+ Moisture-wicking cooling effect
+ 87% Polyester and 13% Spandex

Why We Like It – You can wear these base layers for snowboarding and skiing, but also when it is hot outside, for exercises like running and cycling!


8. Tesuwel 2/3/4/5 Pcs Boys Girls

Tesuwel 2/3/4/5 Pcs Boys Girls

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It isn’t just us grownups that need the best skiing base layer for cold days, so here we have an option ideal for kids! It is made with 88% polyester and 12% spandex, providing the comfort a child needs to move around freely, and the four-way stretch material helps remove moisture from the body to keep children dry and comfortable.

The set has added reflective stripes for visibility when playing and doing sports outside in the dark, and the classic fit and colors make them suitable for both boys and girls regardless of color preferences.

A child can wear these when going skiing, when playing sports like basketball and soccer, or when playing outside with friends, and they are also comfortable enough to be worn as pajamas on chilly nights.

Pros:
+ Comfortable fit for children
+ Stretchy and easy to move in
+ Flatlocked seams to reduce discomfort
+ Reflective stripes for visibility

Why We Like It – When shopping for the best ski underlayer for kids, it is incredibly important that they can move freely in it, or they will end up refusing to wear it. This is one of the best snowboarding base layers for kids, not only because of the comfort it provides, but also thanks to the reflective stripes that make outdoor activities in poor lighting a lot safer.


9. MERIWOOL Men’s Merino Wool Midweight

MERIWOOL Men’s Merino Wool Midweight

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When it is cold outside, it is important to make sure your arms and your torso stay warm, as this is crucial to avoid colds and discomfort when practicing outdoor sports and activities. This is perhaps the warmest base layer for skiing and winter sports you can find, as it is made with 100% Merino wool – an all-natural material with natural warming abilities.

The wicking and odor resistance makes it easy to stay fresh throughout the day, and while it isn’t waterproof, it transports moist away from the body to prevent you from feeling the fabric sticking to your skin, something you will find to be beneficial when spending a lot of time outside.

Pros:
+ Four colors available
+ 18.5-micron Merino wool
+ Effective odor resistance
+ Comfortable and lightweight

Why We Like It – This type of material absorbs moisture better than most other materials and fibers, and it comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.


10. Rocky Girls Ultra Soft Fleece Lined

Rocky Girls Ultra Soft Fleece Lined

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Cold weather is no reason for staying inside when you are a child, and wearing the best base layer for snowboarding shouldn’t mean you have to wear something boring. These layers come in the colors of black, jade, lavender, red, white, coral, royal blue and gray so that your little girl can pick out her favorite!

The product has an elastic waistband, double-layer long-knit cuffs, and an overall comfortable and snug fit, and your child can wear it when playing outside under her regular clothes, or when doing sports. These are not only the best thermals for snowboarding and other winter sports, but it is also a great outfit for children to sleep in and to hang around the house!

Pros:
+ Soft and comfortable fleece lining
+ Durable material that lasts
+ Snug fit to go easily under clothing
+ Unique blend of polyester and spandex

Why We Like It – This thermal clothing for skiing and other winter activities is something every little girl will love! It is comfortable and comes in vibrant colors, and the quality is good enough for it to be washed over and over without it having a negative effect.


Base Layer for Skiing Buyers Guide

A quality base layer can be used for so much more than just skiing and winter sports, and it is something everyone should have in their closet.

They are great for watching TV comfortably, for sleeping in when it is chilly in the room, you can wear them under your clothes when you walk to work, when you go hiking in the fall and for camping, and you can of course also use them when you ski, snowboard, go running in wintertime and for many other things.

You should put some effort into finding the best base layer, though, as there are some things you need to consider if you want to get a product that fits you properly. The last thing you want is for what is supposed to add comfort to be uncomfortable, so here are a few useful tips for what to look for in your new product.

Material

When shopping for base layers, you need to look past the first set you find at the store, as there is quite a big difference between a quality product and something that won’t last you past the first wash.

Look at the packaging to see what material was used to make the thermals you are interested in, as this can tell you a lot about the quality and how well they will serve their purpose once you are wearing them.

Thermals that are made with 100% cotton might stretch and lose shape after a wash or two, and while it isn’t always the case, it is something worth being aware of.

Instead, look for a blend of for example polyester and spandex, as this is as close as you will get to a quality guarantee, where the polyester adds durability, while the spandex contributes with stretchiness that allows the material to fit your body perfectly, and to go back to its original shape once you take your thermals off. If warmth is the most important thing for you, then perhaps a set of wool thermals could be the right option.

Fit

There are different models to choose from when you shop for skiing layers, and this quickly becomes a question of personal taste, more than what is right and wrong. One thing you should avoid, however, is a base layer with a loose fit, as it can be difficult to fit these comfortably under regular clothing.

This may be less of an issue if you intend to wear them under skiing clothes, but it could still be a question of comfort, as you are less likely to feel you are wearing a tight and well-fitted set.

A good thing about thermals is that you don’t usually have to try them on before you buy them, as they tend to be stretchy to accommodate most body types. Choose your regular size of clothing, and if you are unsure, check the product for any provided measurements, which you can then compare to your own. Skiing layers shouldn’t be too big or too small, as this will only make them uncomfortable to wear under clothing.

Purpose

Before you start looking around for the perfect product, you might want to sit down and consider what you intend to use your thermals for. This will narrow down the ideal options and make it easier for you to find what you’ve been looking for.

For example, if you intend to use your thermals for sports like skiing and snowboarding, it is very important that you choose a product that breathes, as sports can make you sweat. You don’t want to be drenched in sweat and while you’re out there having fun, so check for wicking technologies and breathability.

If, on the other hand, you hope to just use them for being comfortable at home and for sleeping in, then perhaps you would prefer a set with a softer fit and where breathability isn’t as important. This is true for any type of product you might buy, and it is always best to know what you need your product to do for you before you start looking for the perfect one.

What is the best women’s base layer for skiing?

This would be any of the base layers on this list, as they can all be used for both men and women, but if you want an ideal fit then perhaps you should consider the ThermaJane Women’s Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear, which provides you with both comfort and a thermal set that will stay in place no matter what activity you plan to use it for.

What does a base layer do?

A thermal base layer helps keep you warm on cold days. You wear it as the closest layer to your body, and you wear your regular clothes or skiing outfit on top. It stops the cold from getting to you, and it allows you to spend more time outdoors without starting to freeze. Think of it as isolation, and an additional layer to keep you warm.

Conclusion

Something as simple as a skiing base layer shouldn’t be keeping you up at night, and it should be a simple decision where you choose to stay warm. Knowing what to look for when you buy base layers makes it a lot easier to find the product that will work best for you and knowing what base layers can do for you and what you hope to get out of using them will aid in determining whether you could do with a pair! If you have used base layers before without fully seeing the point with them – it is very possible you haven’t been using the right kind.

A set of properly fitting thermals can make the difference between a pleasant outing and one you will just want to put an end to as soon as possible, so take a few minutes to go through the quality products here to see if one could be what you are searching for.

Expert Tip

Remember to wash your thermals regularly, especially if you use them for sports. A quality set should not be affected by repeated machine washings.

Did You Know

Frostbite is more common than what most people think, and many experience it without even realizing it. Severe frostbite can have devastating consequences, and a set of good base layer thermals can prevent you from being affected.

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