Base Layer

Thermal and wicking base-layer clothing is absolutely essential to comfort outdoors in a layered clothing system. Wearing a wet t-shirt under a Goretex jacket for example will almost stop it from working. A wicking and quick dry shirt is needed. All of our base layers provide this, whether intended for warmth such as the Under Armour cold gear shirt, or cool, such as the Under Armour Heat Gear shirt. The famous Helly Hansen Lifa shirt, compression boxers and the popular Bridgedale Trecker socks complete our range.
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Base Layer

Wicking Base Layers

Wicking is a term that refers to the capillary action of base layers. This is the transfer of moisture away from the skin to the non-absorbent clothing beyond. The wicking action spreads the water out allowing quicker evaporation. Most people will have noticed the difference in wearing a wicking shirt such as a helly hansen when sweating hard or in the rain compared with a traditional cotton t-shirt. The cotton stays 'wetter' for longer. Exactly the same difference occurs under a shell layer such as Goretex, although the effect is compounded.

Thermal Vests and Clothing

The term 'thermal' base layer may suggest some magic technology, but in general terms it just means a tight fitting shirt which has some insulation value. A vest such as the Helly Hansen Lifa top has no significant insulation value as is entirely wicking, whereas the Under Armour Cold Gear shirt will do both.


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