The Importance of Base Layer Clothes

Base layers are an essential part of any performance athlete's wardrobe due to the way they help to maintain body temperature, keeping the skin dry and comfortable, as well as being an extra layer for in-between seasons. 

Whether you’re just starting out on your athletic journey or are looking to replace existing base layers, we’ve got a full guide on how to ensure you pick the right pieces for when you’re on the move.

What are Base Layers?

Base layers are pieces of clothing that act as a second skin to prevent chafing, to wick away sweat, and keep the core temperature of the body regulated. They are not intended to keep an athlete warm, but rather designed to maintain comfort all year-round and are an essential piece of kit for all-weather runners and cyclists. There are base layers for all main parts of the body, including pants, long and short-sleeved tops, vests, shorts and underwear.

Associated with layering for winter, base layers are important for those who train in cold weather as they provide extra protection from the elements, as well as keep core parts of the body temperature regulated. Different fabrics are used for the base layers intended to be worn in colder conditions, and although different to thermals, they will likely have longer sleeves, making them ideal to be worn under jerseys and jackets.

However, base layers are equally important for the warmer months in order to keep the body cool and dry. The assumption that layering in warmer months will increase body temperatures is false, as base layers are available as shorts, vests and short-sleeved base layer tops, making them just as essential for use in the summer as they would be at any other time of year. Wicking away sweat is one of the most important features of base layers as the dampness is what adds weight to a generic fabric, causing chafing and soreness, as well as cold chills even in the blazing sun.

How Do Base Layers Work?

Base layers are built with a fabric technology that allows breathability, quick drying and a feeling of closeness to the skin. They work by combining all of these elements and reducing the risks of moisture forming and clinging to the fabric.

Many products in GOREWEAR’s range of base layers also have their WINDSTOPPER® technology which provides protection from the wind that won’t cut through the fabric to cause chills. They also have water-resistant properties for base layers when there’s a risk of getting wet from the outside, and they’re extremely lightweight to prevent bulk.

How Do Base Layers Wick Away Sweat? 

Wicking away sweat is the fundamental purpose of a base layer; therefore the fabric used to create these products has to be specifically designed. Wicking works by each fabric fibre taking the moisture created on the skin, moving the droplets along and converting them into vapour before expelling out of other fabrics - keeping the skin dry, body temperature maintained and an athlete's mind on the road ahead.

However, poorly made base layers won’t be able to wick away sweat as quickly as it’s being produced, which can mean an athlete does suffer from moisture being trapped and the consequences that occur. 

Fortunately, GOREWEAR’s base layer fabric technology is created using WINDSTOPPER® which has billions of pores that are 900 times larger than water vapor molecules, so even though wind can’t get in, moisture from sweat vapor can easily get out, creating the perfect combination.

How Should Base Layers Fit?

Base layers should be comfortable but snug, as these will be layered with jerseys, tops, jackets or vests, so preventing bulk when layering is key. Synthetic fabrics should fit like a second skin, whereas wool-based fabrics may be looser. Fundamentally, base layers will have an element of stretch to allow for freedom of movement.

How To Layer Clothing for Maximum Comfort?

Base layers are the foundation for other garments for the appropriate riding or running conditions, so knowing how to layer these is vital. Although many of GOREWEAR’s products are light enough to remove mid-journey, it’s important to know what to wear atop base layers, whatever the conditions.

How To Layer Clothes for Warm Weather Sports?

Layering for summer requires lightweight pieces that keep you protected from the sun. Our recommendations for layering up your sportswear for that warmer endurance run or ride are:

Base Layers:

Sleeveless base layer keeps you cool and dry when on the trails or roads ,while the base layer briefs provide moisture control and maximum comfort. 

Mid Layers:

For cycling, it has to be the  Distance Bib Short 2.0. As an upgrade from the original bib shorts, these have fewer seams, a better seat pad, and improved leg closure. They also match perfectly with the Distance Jersey.

For running, the 2-in-1 shorts can’t be beaten. Breathable and lightweight, they’re the perfect shorts for warm weather. Teamed with the Contest 2.0 tee which is quick-drying and minimalist, it’s the perfect combination.

Top Layers:

For running, we’d recommend the  CONCURVE GORE-TEX Jacket, and for endurance rides, the cycling SPINSHIFT GORE-TEX JACKET, making these jackets perfect for those unexpected summer showers.

Accessories:

Of course, for hot summer days, the C5 light cap is perfect for reducing sun glare and removing sweat on those warmer rides, while fitting perfectly under any helmet. Likewise, for runners, the Essence Light headband is dual-purpose but keeping your head warm on those cooler runs, while also acting as a sweatband when it heats up.

How To Layer Clothes For Winter Sports?

In colder weather, it can be easy to assume more layers are best, but once you’re on the move, it won’t take long for your core temperature to rise. These are our recommendations for how to layer in winter months:

Base Layer:

The M GORE® WINDSTOPPER® Base Layer Thermo Long Sleeve Shirt offers warmth and comfort on even the coldest of days. Perfect for runners and cyclists alike, this is the ideal base for frost, snow and extreme winter weather.

Mid Layers:

The C3 Thermo Jersey adds another level of warmth without causing overheating. Perfect as both a mid or an outer layer, the long sleeves keep arms warm, while the bright colours and reflective logos help to improve visibility in lower light conditions. Combined with C3 WINDSTOPPER® Thermo Tights, you’ll have complete freedom of movement on the road and additional protection from spray and those colder winds.

Perfect for maintaining warmth before, during and after your run, the Everyday Thermo 1/4-Zip Mens is the ideal addition to any runner's winter sportswear collection. Team this with the R3 WINDSTOPPER® Tights which contain the partial WINDSTOPPER® fabric technology for additional protection.

Top Layers:

For ultimate protection in downpours, the SPINSHIFT GORE-TEX Jacket has you covered and is perfect for those riders who want to focus on speed and endurance, whatever the weather. 

For runners on a mission, R5 WINDSTOPPER® Insulated Jacket has everything you need to feel protected from the elements. Insulated and teamed only with a base layer, this outer layer is the perfect running essential.

Accessories:

Gloves, socks, and running and cycling hats are winter must-haves regardless of whether you’re out on foot or bike. Layering up from top to bottom will ensure you’re set for whatever the winter weather throws at you.