A winter holiday skiing or snowboarding is always something to look forward to, but being properly prepared is as important as making sure that that there is a heavy fall at the same time. While the average person thinks choosing thicker, heavier clothing is the best option to stay warm, smart layering using base-layers is how the experts do it.
Base-layering offers a lighter, more comfortable form of protecting the body against the cold. Thermal insulation helps build a barrier of warm air against the body, while protecting it from the heavier outer garments at the same time.
A natural fibre is best
The best fibre to choose when picking a base-layer for a weekend on the slopes is definitely Merino wool. The natural insulation will not only keep you warm but will also help to regulate body temperature as you work up a sweat coming down the mountain.
Merino wool naturally breathes, which helps to prevent overheating. As strange as it sounds, it can often be the case when people pile on too many layers that don’t allow ventilation. Ultra-fine Merino wool is also one of the softest fibres available, offering optimum comfort while preventing irritation from heavier garments. Added to this is the fact that Merino wool garment has a high level of odour resistance, meaning less washing and won’t require heavy soaking like synthetics.
The right wool styles for winter sports
Some people prefer an all-in-one style of base-layer when spending time in the snow. This is in part because it offers a seamless barrier against the cold but there is also a more fun, slightly novel element to them as well.
Separates – a long-sleeve top teamed with long pants – can also be a comfortable and convenient choice when it comes to base-layers for skiing. These not only accommodate for body shapes but also allow slightly more mobility. These are relatively lightweight, so can easily accommodate extra layers such as mid-weight varieties should you be more sensitive to the cold.
Why are thermal base-layers so good for winter sports?
Comfort and warmth are your primary reasons for investing in thermal underwear. Merino wool is one of the softest fibres and is three times finer than the average human hair. This makes it as comfortable, if not more so, than jersey. Thermal underwear can provide protection as much from outer layers made from thicker, heaver fabrics such as other wools or denim as they do against the cold.
How do wool base-layers work?
Thermal base-layers are generally made from a super lightweight fabric that creates a barrier so as to capture a layer of air beneath it, which helps maintain the body’s warmth. They are generally worn under other mid-weight fabrics to prevent cooling, although many also prefer them to traditional pyjamas due to their comfort and softness.
Base-layers such as thermals are traditionally worn close to the skin, with a snug fit. Thermal underwear can be worn in a similar fashion, or slightly looser. It is entirely dependent on taste and purpose.
Many people use their thermal underwear as a comfortable form of sleepwear, as the Merino wool’s breathability helps you don’t overheat during the night while still maintaining optimum body temperature. It also offers a safe, skin-friendly solution for people with sensitive skin prone to winter itch.