Women's base layers and underwear

Comfy all season

The underrated heroes of outdoor clothing? Base layers and underwear. A comfy next-to-skin layer made of materials such as moisture-wicking polyester or itch-free merino wool can keep you warm without overheating while you’re skiing, hiking, trail running, snowshoeing or camping.

If you’re new to the idea of a layering system, check out our article on how to layer for outdoor activities. MEC has a big range of base layers to choose from for getting outside while staying comfy, including brands like Smartwool, Kari Traa and own in-house MEC Label brand.

Layer up: merino vs. synthetic

When it comes to knowing how to choose base layers and underwear, it largely depends on the activities you’ll be doing, as well as the amount of warmth you’re looking for.

Synthetic base layers (often polyester) wick sweat, are durable, and dry quickly. Merino wool base layers are made from a natural fabric that moves and stretches with your body; it’s also naturally antimicrobial, which reduces odors if you’re wearing them for multiple days at a time. To get benefits from both, a merino-synthetic blend is a great option.