If it doesn’t look good or make us feel good while wearing it, we’re unlikely to continue wearing it. Icebreaker also has among the most rigorous standards for responsible animal welfare of any outdoor brand. Only wash when you really need to - A lot of technical fabrics are designed to be antimicrobial and shouldn’t hold odors. Don’t use fabric softener or dryer sheets - Fabric softener and dryer sheets can deposit residue on the fabric and affect the performance negatively.

Shirts and Running Jackets Have Thumb Holes? Why Do Shirts and Running Jackets Have Thumb Holes?

In fact, an increasing number of summer-oriented breathable clothing, especially those created with sun protection in mind, utilize the use of thumb holes. Whether you’re hitting the slopes for ski season, briskly walking through the countryside or braving a fitness boot camp, the Good Housekeeping Institute has found the best base layers for keeping your body at its optimal temperature while you move.When layering, it’s crucial that your base layer wicks away sweat well and still allows it to evaporate–otherwise, wearing layers can feel colder than putting layers on! We like that there are no drawstrings to get caught in backpack straps, climbing equipment, or the washing machine. Merino wool is lighter in weight than traditional wool, and its temperature-regulating properties make it perfect for base layers. Our good old British weather can be wildly unpredictable, making layering up with the right kit a must for enjoying outdoor exercise.

Thumb holes: outdoor gear necessity or marketing gimmick? Thumb holes: outdoor gear necessity or marketing gimmick?

While synthetic material is superior to wool in durability, wool is superior to synthetic because it doesn’t retain odors. For cold days, the Mammut Trift long-sleeve base layer is the best base layer for skiing, snowshoeing, and any condition where you're dealing with extreme cold and high output activity. Still, it’s made with recycled fabric and under a label that strives to be environmentally conscious. Style comes down to personal preference, but features such as pockets, thumb holes and patches of mesh or breathable fabric for ventilation may prove useful. Base layers should fit well and be comfortable and durable enough to last through constant use over many seasons.

Generally, you wear them without other layers, though depending on how windy it is, you might want to bring along a wind jacket of some sort. The range features lots of boys football base layers from great brands like Sondico, Under Armour and Nike, offering base layer tops, bottoms and shorts to provide full coverage. Base layers can be used while running, hiking, climbing, biking, or any activity, especially outdoors. We found its venting system and mix of synthetic and wool were the perfect mix for cold conditions where we worked up a sweat and needed moisture to wick and dry away fast.