So you’ve decided to embark on a hiking expedition to a cold mountaintop or maybe even a skiing trip. What’s the first thing you think of buying when it comes to clothing? A big down jacket? A premium fleece top? A hooded parka? Having high-quality outerwear is important when it comes to colder weather; however, it is much more vital to have robust, warm base layers. When backpacking and hunting, your base layer is the item of clothing that is closest to your body and is responsible for keeping you warm and wicking away moisture to the mid and outer layers.

So how does one choose the best base layers? There are a few factors to consider, such as the fabric, the weather conditions in your area, and your budget when buying your base layers. The most common fabric types for warm base layers are merino wool and polyester blends. Merino wool is a lightweight yet warm fabric that works exceptionally well for wicking away moisture. It is incredibly comfortable and soft, and it also helps regulate body odor. Merino wool can be expensive though, and it does not last for more than three years even with proper care. That is where polyester comes into play as it behaves in the same way as merino wool does with a much more affordable price tag and more durability. Most polyester blends cannot compare to the odor-resistant quality of merino wool though, so that is an area of contention between the two.

Today we have compiled the most loved base layer products for your convenience. Read on to see a comparative analysis of some of the best base layer options for both men and women.