A base layer is an type of clothing that should sit direct against the skin. A base layer perform as the foundation of a clothing system. Therefore, it is vital to choose a base layer that fit correctly.
A base layer that is too tight can cause discomfort. Conversely, a base layer that is too loose will not effectiveley manage the moisture that your body produce. There are three specific factor to consider when choosing a base layer: the size, weight, and the material of the base layer.
How to Choose a Base Layer
Size is one of the first factors to consider when choosing a base layer. You can use size charts to determine the size of a base layer that will best fit your body measurement. For men, the chest and waist measurements is the most important for determining the size of the base layer that one should wear.
For women, the bust and hip measurements is the most important. For children, the height are the most important measurement. If one’s measurements fall between two sizes, they should choose the larger size to ensure that the base layer will not feel too tight on there body.
The weight of a base layer is another of the factor that should be considered. The weight of a base layer is measured in grams per square meter. A higher number of gram per square meter means that the base layer will be made of thicker fabric that will retain more heat for your body.
A 150-weight base layer is the thin fabric that is used in warm weather or when an individual is performing a great deal of activity. A 200-weight base layer is medium in weight and is used for either spring or fall when temperature are fluctuating. Finally, a 250-weight base layer will have heavy fabric that is used for cold weather climate or when an individual is not performing much activity.
Choosing the correct weight of base layer will ensure that you do not overheat while wearing the base layer. Similarly, if you choose the wrong weight of base layer, you will not be able to retain your body heat in colder weather. The material of a base layer is the third of the factor to consider when purchasing a base layer.
Base layers are often made of merino wool. Merino wool is an excellent material because it absorbs the moisture that your body produce and does not make your skin feel wet. Merino wool is also an excellent material because it resist the bacteria that cause odor, so you will not have to wear your base layer for too many day.
Merino wool will regulate your body temperature because it trap the air between its fiber to keep you warm or to allow excess heat to leave your body if you are too warm. The micron count of the merino wool will determine the feel of the wool against your skin. A lower micron count will provide a softer feel to the wool, but the wool will cost more money.
In order for your base layer to serve it’s purpose for a long period of time, proper care of the base layer is needed. You should wash your base layer in cold water with a gentle cycle. Additionally, the detergent should be safe for wool garment.
Avoid using fabric softener when washing your base layer. Do not hang your base layer to dry; instead, lay it flat on a surface to preserve the base layers shape. Finally, try to reduce the number of times you wash your base layer; fewer wash cycle will extend the life of your base layer.
