When picking an ultralight hiking baselayer, remember to focus on things like how well it keeps you dry, insulation for warmth, comfort, fit, the material’s quality, and if it can be used for different activities. These factors really matter for staying comfy and dry while hiking.
But be cautious, because if you choose the wrong one, it might cause discomfort, not keep you warm enough, or make you sweaty.
Don’t worry, though – our guide is here to help you choose the right one and avoid these issues.
Key Specs
Weight: 4.58 ounces (130 grams)
Material: 100% polyester
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Ultralight
✅ Dries quick
CONS
❌ Not for cold weather
The Rab Sonic LS Zip is a fantastic choice for those who love mountain running and fast hiking. Its lightweight and breathable design, complete with a half-zip and thumb loops, ensures comfort during challenging climbs.
The fabric’s quick-wicking feature keeps you dry even on tough trails. With its versatile use, from cooler days to sun protection, this baselayer is perfect for multi-day adventures.
We like it because it’s good for general travel, offering warmth, quick drying, and a stylish appearance.
Key Specs
Weight: 8.64 ounces (245 grams)
Material: 87% polyester, 13% elastane
Price: $$$
PROS
✅ Comfortable
✅ Good odor control
CONS
❌ A bit heavy
The Black Diamond Alpenglow Crew is a top-notch choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s designed with technical expertise and features a protective fabric, making it ideal for various activities like desert climbing and alpine adventures.
The UPF 50+ and BD.cool technology keep you cool and shielded from the sun’s rays. The pullover design and Polygiene odor control add to its practicality.
The only real downside is that it’s heavier than the competition. However, we particularly appreciate its odor resistance during hot hikes.
If you’re in search of a reliable hiking shirt that performs well and stays fresh, the Alpenglow Crew is a smart pick.
Key Specs
Weight: 5.39 ounces (153 grams)
Material: 100% polyester
Price: $
PROS
✅ Good fit
✅ Comfortable
CONS
❌ Stitches can be a bit scratchy
The Patagonia ultralight hiking baselayer proves to be a versatile and comfortable choice for outdoor adventures. Crafted with recycled polyester, it offers quick-drying abilities, stretch for ease of movement, and HeiQ Pure odor control.
For us, the shirt is incredibly comfortable and remains cool even under the sun. We can praise the fit, comfort, and quality of the shirt, highlighting its perfect sizing and overall appeal. However, some of the stitching around the neck and shoulders can become scratchy and irritating.
Overall, it’s a solid choice.
Key Specs
Weight: 5.99 ounces (170 grams)
Material: 100% merino
Price: $$$
PROS
✅ 100% merino
✅ No-itch control
CONS
❌ Runs small if you have big arms
The Icebreaker 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe is a versatile and comfy base layer choice. Made from soft and breathable 100% merino wool, it’s an all-purpose baselayer that suits various activities.
We can say it’s the ideal lightweight shirt for easy movement while regulating body temperature. The shirt’s athletic fit provides a nice shape without being overly tight. However, we are not a fan of the shoulder seam, which can rub against your backpack.
Overall, it’s a solid pick for those seeking a versatile and comfortable base layer.
Key Specs
Weight: 3.17 ounces (90 grams)
Material: 100% polyester
Price: $
PROS
✅ Affordable
✅ Comfortable
CONS
❌ Not a warm option
The Montane Men’s Dart Lite Long Sleeve T-Shirt stands out as a versatile and efficient base layer for active outdoor pursuits. It’s designed to provide extra protection on cooler days, striking a balance between warmth, moisture-wicking, and breathability—making it perfect for hiking, running, and fastpacking adventures.
The use of recycled materials in its fabric, combined with POLYGEINE permanent odor control, allows for extended wear and reduced washing, ensuring freshness even during multi-day activities.
Whether worn alone or layered, this baselayer proves its worth as a reliable choice from Montane’s range of tops, earning praise for its functionality and design.
Selecting the perfect base layer for your outdoor adventures is the first step in creating a comfortable clothing system. This layer is the one that touches your skin and plays a crucial role in ensuring your overall comfort. When you’re deciding on a base layer, keep these three important factors in mind:
There are various fabric options for base layers, each with its unique qualities:
The weight of your base layer should match your metabolism and the level of activity: “lightweight” for moderate to cool temperatures, “midweight” for cold temperatures, and “heavyweight” for freezing conditions.
Remember that the primary source of warmth in your clothing system comes from your insulating midlayer, not your base layer. If you want to become an expert in selecting the right midlayer, you can check out our in-depth guide here.
