The 10 Best Women's Base Layers of 2024
By: Sarah Ziffer: Women's & Kid's Techwear Buyer | October 30, 2023
The key to any good layering system is the base layer. That’s the foundation for the entire system and can make or break your ski or snowboard outfit. A good base layer has two main functions: it provides a warm, comfortable barrier between your skin and your insulating layer, and it wicks any moisture you produce away from your body so that it can evaporate. That second function is often overlooked, but it’s very, very important. Even when it’s really cold out, we produce moisture by sweating, and if our base layers don’t wick that moisture away, we’ll end up uncomfortable and shivering. The best women's base layers do this by using synthetic and natural materials, like merino wool, to keep you warm and dry.
New This Year:
When it comes to women's ski and snowboard baselayers, natural fibers are holding their ground, with wool continuing to outshine synthetic materials. Its natural temperature-regulating properties and moisture-wicking capabilities make wool a favorite choice for those seeking comfort on the slopes. Additionally, 3/4 length pants are making a notable appearance, becoming a popular choice among female riders. For those looking for new long underwear, these pants provide an optimal fit, eliminating bunching in ski and snowboard boots, and ensuring a seamless and comfortable ride.
This Year's Best Thermal Underwear for Women:
Oyuki Hitatech Funnel Neck Longsleeve
Developed specially for those who prefer a synthetic performance garment, the Oyuki Hitatech Funnel Neck Longsleeve top is super warm with superb moisture wicking properties.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 93% Polyester / 7% Spandex Single Jersey | Turtleneck | $74.95 |
evo Ridgetop Merino Wool Midweight High Neck Top
Taking on-mountain comfort to new heights, the evo Ridgetop Merino Wool Midweight High Neck Top features a pure 190 gram merino wool construction that consists of ultra-fine fibers for a silky smooth feel and a natural climate control. With an attention to detail by way of low profile thumbholes and a backpack-friendly raglan design, along with a snuggly funnel neck, the evo Ridgetop Merino Wool Midweight High Neck Top is an essential for dedicated lovers of the mountains.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 190 g Merino Wool | High Neck | $84.95 |
MONS ROYALE Cascade Mock Neck Top
The MONS ROYALE Cascade Mock Neck Top features a temperature-regulating, odor-resistant Merino blend fabric and a mock neck style for extra warmth.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 81% Merino Wool / 12% Nylon / 7% Elastane | Mock Neck | $129.95 |
MONS ROYALE Cascade Merino Flex 200 3/4 Leggings
The MONS ROYALE Cascade Merino Flex 200 3/4 Leggings are made to move and keep you warm, even when wet. Plus, they are perfectly cut for your favorite socks. Let the deep days commence!
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| Merino Flex 200 – 81% Merino Wool / 12% Nylon / 7% Elastane | 3/4 Leggings | $99.95 - $119.95 |
Kari Traa Edith Pants
Charge up and down mountains with confidence in the Kari Traa Edith Pants – where style meets substance. Crafted with 100% Merino wool, these Jacquard-knit wonders ensure ultimate comfort and zero chafing, making them your go-to underlayer for any adventure. With a non-slip ribbed high waistband, these pants stay put while you conquer the slopes or roam the urban terrain. Embrace the Nordic design that celebrates femininity and unleash your full potential, because when it comes to performance, the Edith Pants are a force to be reckoned with.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 100% Merino Wool | Leggings | $100.00 |
Kari Traa Edith Long Sleeve Top
Brace yourself for ultimate coziness with the Kari Traa Edith Long Sleeve Top - the go-to baselayer for fierce, fun-loving women. Crafted from 100% Merino wool and featuring underarm panels and stretch body mapping, this beauty ensures a perfect fit and unrestricted motion. Flaunt the timeless Nordic design while conquering the great outdoors - the Edith is the epitome of enduring comfort and style for all your cool weather adventures.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 100% Merino Wool | Long Sleeve Top | $100.00 |
Airblaster Hoodless Ninja Suit
Hoods, they're not for everyone. Rid yourself of that needless piece of fabric by rocking the Airblaster Hoodless Ninja Suit as your one-piece, do-it-all baselayer. It's everything you ever wanted from a baselayer, minus what you never needed to begin with.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 230 g/m² 94% Brushed Polyester / 6% Lycra 4-Way Stretch Air Tech Fabric | Onesie | $129.95 - $139.95 |
Burton Lightweight X Base Layer Pants
Experience the epitome of comfort and performance with the Burton Lightweight X Base Layer Pants. Designed to be your go-to companion for any adventure, these pants offer a next-to-skin fit that hugs your body without the extra bulk. With their lightweight 100 Living Lining® technology, they provide optimal temperature regulation while ensuring maximum mobility with their four-way stretch fabrication. Let's not forget the quick-drying and highly breathable properties that keep you fresh and ready for whatever tomorrow brings. Crafted from bluesign® approved materials, these pants are not only good for you but also for the planet. Say hello to endless possibilities on the horizon with the Burton Lightweight X Base Layer Pants.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| Synthetic | Leggings | $64.95 |
Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew Top
Put on the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew Top and enter a world of comfortable natural fiber. A slim, efficient fit keeps warmth next to the body while the odor-resistant construction also breathes for better thermoregulation. Flatlock seam construction minimizes chafing so you can be confident using this base layer through your high-exertion athletic pursuits.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 100% Merino Wool | Long Sleeve Top | $115.00 |
Eivy Boyfriend Fit Hoodie
Wrap yourself in style with the Eivy Boyfriend Fit Hoodie - it's like a warm hug for both you and the planet. Crafted with recycled nylon and boasting an oversized fit, this hoodie is not just a statement piece, it's a statement for the environment. With integrated thumbholes, UPF 50+ protection, and a cozy fleece-lined neckwarmer hoodie, it's ready for anything - from urban adventures to mountain escapades.
| Material | Style | Original Price |
| 43% Nylon / 39% Recycled Nylon / 18% Spandex | Hoodie | $94.95 |
Learn More With Our Other Outerwear & Layering Guides:
- Waterproof Ratings & Breathability Guide
- Skiing & Snowboarding - What to Wear Skiing & Snowboarding
- Outerwear - How to Choose a Ski & Snowboard Jacket
- Outerwear - How to Choose Ski & Snowboard Pants
- Outerwear - Fit Guide & Jacket Length
- How to Wash Waterproof Jackets & Clothing
- Outerwear - How to Choose by Region
- Outerwear - Construction, Fabric & Features
- Insulated Garments - How to Choose
- Insulated Garments - How to Wash Down & Synthetic Jackets
- Base Layers & Long Underwear - How to Choose
- GORE-TEX® Fabric - How it Works & Product Testing
- GORE-TEX® Fabric - How to Wash & Keep Waterproof
- Backcountry - How to Dress
Learn About Our Favorite Gear
- The Best Men's Ski Jackets
- The Best Women's Ski Jackets
- The Best Men's Snowboard Jackets
- The Best Women's Snowboard Jackets
- The Best Kids' Ski & Snowboard Jackets
- The Best Men's Ski Pants
- The Best Women's Ski Pants
- The Best Men's Snowboard Pants
- The Best Women's Snowboard Pants
- The Best Men's Ski Bibs
- The Best Men's Snowboard Bibs
- The Best Women's Ski Bibs
- The Best Kids' Ski & Snowboard Pants
- The Best Men's Down & Puffy Jackets
- The Best Men's Ski & Snowboard Mid Layers
- The Best Men's Ski & Snowboard Base Layers
- The Best Women's Snowboard Bibs
- The Best Men's Fleece Jackets
- The Best Women's Down & Puffy Jackets
- The Best Women's Fleece Jackets
- The Best Men's Rain Jackets
- The Best Women's Rain Jackets
- The Best Men's Hardshell Jackets
- The Best Women's Hardshell Jackets
- The Best Women's Ski & Snowboard Mid Layers
- The Best Women's Ski & Snowboard Base Layers
- The Best Down Vests
- The Best Kid & Toddler Snowsuits
The Selection Process:
Our techwear buyers have an endless amount of knowledge on all things outerwear stemming from years of experience in the outdoor industry in tandem with their countless hours spent outside in all conditions around the world. From hot to cold, snow, rain, wind, and even sunshine, they know what clothing will keep you comfortable. evo's buyers assess all products coming to market, lean into this knowledge, and put together this selection of the best products. They have a unique perspective as they truly see everything offered across the category.
Sarah Ziffer
Growing up in Florida, I missed out on the chance to get involved in snow sports. Tired of the heat, and seeking out the mountains, I moved to Seattle to start a new adventure. A few years after moving to WA I fulfilled my dream of learning to snowboard and immediately fell in love with it. After just one time out on a friend’s board I was hooked. I outfitted myself from head to toe with gear from evo, and got a season pass at Snoqualmie.
I quickly realized that snowboarding inspired me to live a lifestyle centered around the outdoors. I left my job at a fashion company to come and work for evo and become immersed in the culture and experiences that make the snowboarding community so vibrant. I have been at evo since 2017, am currently the women's and kids' techwear buyer, and enjoy learning and experiencing everything this incredible community has to offer.