Base Layers

This layer is the one that is closest to the skin. The idea of a base layer is to wick moisture away from the skin and be able to regulate your body temperature as needed. There are plenty of styles and types of fabric that base layers are made of. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for.

Garments:

Lower garments are generally of one style. They are long leggings and you want them tight fitting. You want them to hug your body and not be loose.

Upper garments come in all sleeve lengths. Tank top, short sleeve, and long sleeve. Personally I got one short sleeve and one long sleeve. There are various colors and pattern designs. The best way to get a shirt is to make sure it is something you are comfortable wearing even without all the other layers on. If you had to strip to your base layer would you still be comfortable? Long sleeves help to protect you from the sun when you strip to the base layer which is why I favor them. Don't be shy in having a short sleeve base layer and a long sleeve base layer over it one size larger. Like bottoms you want to make sure that the fabric is tight to your body and isn't loose.

Fabrics:

Synthetic: Primarily made of polyester or a blend of polyester fibers. These are extremely durable, soft, and hydrophobic. Fibers do not absorb moisture and therefore it takes less time to dry. Higher quality brands will apply anti-microbial treatment to reduce odors. Keep in mind that no matter the treatment of the fabric after a few washes that treatment may no longer be there.

Wool: Merino wool is the most popular type and most exclusively used. In general this is also the fabric type that you will be getting your socks in. Wool is hygroscopic, which means that they easily absorb water and the moisture then passes through the wool to the surface. By doing this the presence of bacteria on the skin or on the surface of the fabric is far less than other fabrics, meaning, you won’t stink! Wool is also flame resistant and even when saturated with moisture retains a high degree of insulation.

Blends: To leverage the benefits of wools and synthetics there are companies that blend percentages of the fabrics together.

Body Mapping:

The Mammut Company has started incorporating findings from a German study in designing their base layers. The study analyzed heat and moisture production in different locations of the body in relations to different fabrics.

Insulation Zone: Provides a higher level of insulation by using a blend that has thicker fibers.

Regulations Zone: Requires both wicking and insulation but at different times during use.

Drying Zone: Fabric is 100% Polyester design for quick movement of moisture.

What I Got:

I have only purchased some of my gear in regards to base layers. According to Alpine Ascents (which has a 90% success rate for summiting) they recommend 2 sets of long underwear. They recommend 1 set light color for sunny days and 1 set of dark color for days on the glacier.

They also recommend long sleeve Zip-T-neck tops to allow more ventilation options.

So far I have purchased

One (1) dark long sleeve top made of a blend (Discounted at $30 USD)

One (1) green (light) short sleeve top made of Wool ($70 USD)

One (1) dark bottom made of Wool ($70 USD)

BY NO MEANS GET COTTON! COTTON DOES NOT DRY QUICKLY AND DOES NOT INSULATE WELL! ONLY GET FABRICS MENTIONED ABOVE!