A base layer is a garment that is worn closest to the skin. Base layer are designed to move moisture away from the skin so that the wearer feels warm. A base layer must correctly fit the wearer; if a base layer is too loose, it can create areas within the garment that feel cold to the wearer.
If a base layer is too tight, it can cause discomfort for the wearer. Helly Hansen provides the size charts that you can use to ensure that the base layer will fit the wearer correctly. Size charts for Helly Hansen base layers are divided according to the gender of the wearer; base layers are sized for men, women, and children.
How to Choose and Care for Helly Hansen Base Layers
Men and women wear base layers that are sized according to chest and waist measurements; however, the women’s size charts also include a measurement for the hips of the wearer, as the hip measurements of women can be different than those of men. Additionally, base layers for children are sized according to the age and height of the child, as children are of different sizes and growth rates. By using the size charts to compare the wearer’s body measurements to those specifications, Helly Hansen can avoid the mistake of purchasing a base layer that dont correctly fit the wearer.
Helly Hansen produces base layers that incorporate different types of fabric technologies. The type of fabric technology that is included in a base layer can be used for different activities and environments. Polypropylene base layers are among the most common fabrics for base layers, as they are lightweight and quickly dry after the wearer’s body has released moisture.
Merino blend base layers include both polypropylene and merino wool; merino blend base layers are odor-resistant and provide additional warmth to the wearer. Additionally, merino blend base layers are often used on trips of significant length, as the wool component of the base layer retains its properties even if the wearer does not wash the base layer each day. Finally, Helly Hansen also creates base layers that contain a waterproof-breathable fabric; individuals who spend time in the rain or in areas where the spray of water is common use this type of base layer; waterproof-breathable base layers do not become water-wet like base layers made of common fabrics.
These different types of base layers are explained in the infographic that is included with each Helly Hansen base layer; the temperature ranges for which each type of base layer is best used are represented in the infographic. Base layers are the first layer of the three-layer system that Helly Hansen creates for its base layer products. The function of the base layer will have a significant impact upon the functionality of the remaining two layers of the system.
Base layers are designed to move moisture away from the skin; that moisture can then move into the mid layer for insulation, and then through the outer shell of the garment. The function of the base layer is, therefore, dependent upon the proper fit of that layer; if the base layer does not appropriately and correctly fit the wearer, moisture will not be able to pass through the system from the skin to the outer shell of the garment. Helly Hansen creates base layers that include a variety of design elements to enhance their functional elements.
For instance, many base layers include flat seams to reduce chafing against the skin, extended back hems that allow the base layer to remain tucked into the garments worn beneath it, and thumbhole cuffs that prevent the sleeves of the base layer from slipping off the wearer’s arms. These different design elements will not fulfill their purposes unless the base layer fits the body of the wearer correctly; using the size charts, therefore, ensures that the wearer will purchase a base layer with the correct fit. In order to maintain the performance of Helly Hansens base layers, the wearer should follow the care instructions included with each garment.
Base layers should not be treated with fabric softener; softeners that are added to the garments can create a coating around the base layer’s fibers, which will prevent the base layer from performing its main purpose of moving moisture away from the wearer’s body. Additionally, base layers should not be washed with hot water; the high temperature of the water can cause the merino wool in the blend to shrink, which will cause the base layer to no longer fit the wearer according to the wearer’s measurements noted on the size chart. Base layers should be washed with cold, gentle laundry cycles, and they should be air-dried after washing; using these methods of washing and drying will help maintain the size and function of the base layer.
By following these cleaning instructions for each base layer, the brand is able to ensure that each wearer can enjoy its wicking and dryness-keeping capabilities for an extended period of time. By measuring the body of the wearer and correctly using the size charts for Helly Hansen base layers, the brand is able to avoid purchasing a garment that will not correctly fit the wearer. Thus, by performing these steps, Helly Hansen can provide garments that not only fit the individuals who purchase them, but also that allow for the technologies within the base layer to appropriately keep those individuals dry and comfortable.
