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Renewed for Spring 2026, our Active Light and Performance X-Light base layers deliver our lightest feel yet.
- Dan Pattison, Product Manager Outdoor & SUW

Answer a few questions and find your perfect base layer.
Stay warm and comfortable in every condition with high-quality base layers for women and men. Our base layer range wicks moisture, breathes, and dries fast – perfect for any outdoor activity. Choose between Active, Merino, and Performance, and the warmth levels X-Light, Light, Warm, and X-Warm, to match exactly what you're doing and the weather you're doing it in.
Our base layers are built on high-quality materials: merino wool keeps you warm even when damp and is naturally odor-resistant, while synthetic fibers dry extra fast and wick moisture away with exceptional efficiency. Whether you're hiking, skiing, running, or layering up for everyday life – your base layer fits close, moves with you, and keeps you dry where it counts.
Sustainability is more than a promise to us: our merino wool is 100% mulesing-free and comes from responsibly managed farms, certified to the Responsible Wool Standard. For our synthetic alternatives, we use recycled polyester – so you get base layers that look after your performance and the environment.
What are base layers and what are they good for? A base layer is the first layer worn directly against the skin. It moves moisture away from your body and out to the surface, rather than absorbing and holding it the way cotton does – keeping you dry and warm during sport.
What's the difference between a base layer and thermal underwear? A base layer is designed primarily to manage moisture and can feel cooling or warming depending on the fabric. Thermal underwear is a subcategory made from thicker, brushed material built specifically to retain heat.
When should you wear a base layer? Anywhere you sweat or feel the cold: skiing, hiking, running, cycling, or everyday wear. Warmer options like Warm or X-Warm suit winter, while lighter options like X-Light or Light work best in summer.
How do you wash base layers properly? Use a gentle cycle at 30–40°C with a mild specialty detergent, and skip the fabric softener – it interferes with moisture-wicking performance. Air drying is best.
How sustainable are Odlo base layers? Our merino wool is 100% mulesing-free and certified to the Responsible Wool Standard. Synthetic styles contain recycled polyester – base layers that combine performance with responsibility.

