Top Base Layer Brands: Comfort Meets Performance.

When it comes to outdoor adventures or sports activities, choosing the right base layer can significantly enhance your comfort and performance. With a myriad of options available on the market, selecting the best brands is crucial to ensure you remain warm, dry, and comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. From breathable merino wool to moisture-wicking synthetics, different materials suit various needs. To help you make an informed decision, explore our curated list of top brands known for producing quality base layers below.

Illustration of base layer

Best brands of base layer in 2025

Patagonia

Patagonia is renowned as one of the best producers of base layers, particularly through its innovative and sustainable approaches. Since launching the Common Threads Garment Recycling Program in 2005, Patagonia has successfully recycled over 6,000 kg of garments, with 65% of its fall 2009 product line being recyclable. The brand's commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of recycled materials, such as Capilene, which reduces energy use by 76% and CO2 emissions by 42% compared to using petroleum. Founded in 1973 by Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia has consistently prioritized environmental responsibility, including pledging 1% of sales to environmental conservation groups since 2001. This dedication to sustainability has made Patagonia a leader in the outdoor apparel industry.

Arc'teryx

Arc'teryx is renowned for producing high-quality base layers, exemplified by their Motus AR and Phase AR lines, which offer excellent thermoregulation, quick drying, and superior comfort. These base layers are engineered with advanced technologies such as Phasic Technology for breathability and moisture-wicking, and feature Merrow Stitch Seam Construction for a smoother fit. Arc'teryx products are also Fair Trade Certified, ensuring ethical production practices. The brand's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a leader in the outdoor apparel market, despite the global base layer market being highly competitive with low industry concentration, where top brands like Nike and Adidas hold only about 11.10% of the market share. For a detailed review, you can visit Arc'teryx Motus AR and Phase AR base layers review.

Icebreaker

Icebreaker is a renowned brand in the outdoor and performance clothing industry, particularly celebrated for its high-quality merino wool base layers. Founded in 1995 by Jeremy Moon, Icebreaker has expanded to supply its products to over 4,700 stores in 50 countries, with a significant presence in Europe, where by 2010, one in every three Icebreaker garments was sold. The company is known for its sustainable and ethical practices, using natural fibers and ensuring animal welfare. Icebreaker's merino fibre layering system includes various weights such as 120 g/m² Featherweight and 380 g/m² Outerlayer, catering to diverse activities and conditions. Its global sales reached approximately $200 million by 2014, reflecting its strong market presence.

Smartwool

Smartwool is a leading producer of base layers, renowned for its high-quality 100% Merino wool products that offer excellent next-to-skin feel, enhanced comfort, breathability, thermoregulation, and odor resistance. Founded 30 years ago in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Smartwool has revolutionized the wool industry with its ZQ-certified merino wool, ensuring environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Their products, such as the Classic Thermal Merino Baselayer, feature flatlock seam construction and raglan sleeves for increased mobility and comfort. Smartwool continues to innovate, transitioning to recycled materials and aiming for a circular economy. The brand's commitment to sustainability and quality has made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. For more information, visit Smartwool Base Layers 2024/25 Preview.

Under Armour

Under Armour is a leading producer of base layers, known for its innovative and high-performance products. The brand's HeatGear® Baselayer, launched in 1996, has been a staple in athletes' uniforms, offering moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties. Under Armour's base layers are popular among athletes, with the sports segment holding a significant market share of 49.67% in 2022. The company's commitment to innovation is evident in its collaboration with Celanese Corporation to develop NEOLAST™, a high-performing alternative to elastane. Under Armour's discounts for military and first responders, such as the recent 40% off offer, also highlight its customer-centric approach.

The North Face

The North Face is a leading brand in the base layer market, renowned for its high-quality and functional clothing. In 2022, the brand contributed to the global base layer market, which was valued at USD 7.49 billion, with North America holding a significant 38.18% market share. The North Face, along with other prominent players like Nike and Adidas, drives the market growth through innovative products and strong distribution channels. The brand's products are popular across various segments, including sports, gym/fitness, and hiking, with the sports segment holding the largest market share of 49.67% in 2022. The increasing demand for base layers, driven by rising sports participation and health awareness, further solidifies The North Face's position in the market.

Lululemon

Lululemon is renowned as one of the top producers of high-quality base layers, catering to a health-conscious demographic, primarily women aged 18 to 45, though it also has a growing male customer base. The brand commands a significant market share, with approximately 6%-7% of the global sports apparel market, which was valued at $115 billion in 2022. Known for its premium products, Lululemon achieves an operating margin of about 20%, almost unmatched in the nonluxury apparel space. Its expansion into international markets, particularly China, has been robust, with the number of stores in China increasing from 6 in 2016 to 127 in 2023. Lululemon's e-commerce segment has also seen exponential growth, with direct-to-consumer sales making up over half of its total revenue since 2020.

Helly Hansen

Helly Hansen is renowned as one of the top producers of base layers, known for their high-quality and performance-driven products. In 2022, the brand contributed to a global base layer market valued at USD 7.49 billion, with the North America segment holding a significant 38.18% market share. Helly Hansen's Lifa fabric, used in products like the Lifa Stripe Crew, stands out for its moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, making it a favorite among athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The brand's offerings are part of a market projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.64% from 2023 to 2030, reaching USD 9.91 billion by 2030. Helly Hansen's commitment to innovation and durability has solidified its position in the competitive base layer market.

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research is renowned as one of the top producers of base layers, known for their high-quality, functional, and comfortable clothing. In 2022, the global base layer market, which includes brands like Outdoor Research, was valued at USD 7.49 billion, with the North America segment, where Outdoor Research is prominent, holding around 38.18% of the global market share. The brand's products are popular among outdoor enthusiasts due to their advanced moisture-wicking and thermal insulation properties. The base layer market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.64% from 2023 to 2030, driven by increasing consumer participation in outdoor activities. Outdoor Research's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has solidified its position in the competitive base layer market. For more information, visit their official website.

REI Co-op

REI Co-op is renowned as one of the best producers of base layers, offering a wide range of high-quality products made from materials such as merino wool, recycled polyester, and spandex. With a history spanning 78 years, REI has evolved into America's largest consumer co-op and specialty outdoor retailer, boasting 16 million members and over 150 stores across 36 states. The co-op's base layers, such as the Merino 185 Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top, are highly rated for their comfort and performance, with fabrics approved by bluesign(r) for sustainability. REI's use of advanced analytics, as seen in their adoption of Tableau, has significantly enhanced their ability to personalize the customer experience and drive business strategy. This analytical approach has led to a 20 percent improvement in email and direct mail programs, further solidifying REI's competitive advantage.