Best Base Layers for Men of 2025

William Weston Avatar
William Weston
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Base Layers are essential clothing items for men who enjoy outdoor activities or live in colder climates. These products provide a comfortable and insulating layer of fabric that fits snugly against the skin. Designed to wick away moisture and regulate body temperature, base layers are perfect for activities like hiking, skiing, or even just everyday wear during the winter months. Available in a variety of styles and materials, these base layers offer both warmth and breathability, ensuring that men can stay comfortable and dry in any weather conditions.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Set Mens Cover #TOP 1
Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Set Mens
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Thermajohn Fleece Lined Long Johns Cover #TOP 2
Thermajohn Fleece Lined Long Johns
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Carhartt Base Force Midweight Crew Cover #TOP 3
Carhartt Base Force Midweight Crew
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Base Layers for Men

Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Set Mens

.250 Black Set
Large
Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Set Mens Cover
Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Mens Set - Midweight, Heavyweight, Lite Merino Wool Thermal Underwear For Men Top, Bottom (Large, 250 Black)

Stay warm and comfortable all day long with the Merino.tech Wool Base Layer Set. This set includes a top and bottom made from 100% Superfine 17.5 Micron merino wool, providing a soft and itch-free experience. The moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties of the merino wool keep you dry and fresh, making it perfect for outdoor activities. With its breathable design, this base layer set regulates your body temperature, ensuring comfort throughout the year. Additionally, the set comes with a pair of Merino Wool Hiking Socks for added value. Don't forget, all Merino.tech products are backed by a lifetime warranty. Upgrade your base layer with the Merino.tech Wool Base Layer Set today!

What We Like
Exceptional comfort
Excellent moisture management
Great quality and durability
Versatile for various temperatures
Perfect fit and design
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
Size may vary slightly
#TOP 2

Thermajohn Fleece Lined Long Johns

J-T-M-1836
Charcoal
Small
Thermajohn Fleece Lined Long Johns Cover
Thermajohn Long Johns Thermal Underwear for Men Fleece Lined Base Layer Set for Cold Weather (Small, Charcoal)

Stay warm and comfortable with the Thermajohn Thermal Underwear. Designed with heat retention in mind, these long johns help protect you from the cold, making them perfect for winter outings. The ultra-soft fleece lining ensures you feel cozy throughout the day, whether you’re outside or relaxing at home. Plus, the breathable fabric effectively wicks away moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable even during physical activities. With a 4-way stretch, you can move freely without worrying about chafing or discomfort. Layering with these thermals is a smart choice for staying warm this season.

What We Like
Soft and comfortable material
Effective heat retention
Good fit and sizing
Versatile for layering or sleepwear
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Sizing inconsistencies noted
Thin material for some preferences
#TOP 3

Carhartt Base Force Midweight Crew

MBL113T-BLK-XL
Black
X-Large
Carhartt Base Force Midweight Crew Cover
Carhartt Men's Size Base Force Midweight Classic Crew, Black, X-Large Tall

The Carhartt Midweight Crew is designed to keep you comfortable during any activity. With its advanced moisture-wicking technology, it quickly pulls sweat away from your skin, helping you stay dry. You’ll also appreciate its odor-fighting properties, which keep you feeling fresh throughout the day. The thoughtfully designed flatlock seams minimize chafing, allowing for a full range of motion without irritation. Additionally, the concealed thumb loop keeps the sleeves in place, providing extra warmth and coverage when you need it most.

What We Like
Warm and stylish
Comfy with thumb hooks
Good quality for layering
Suitable for cold weather
What We Don't Like
Runs large
Some transparency issues
#TOP 4

Spyder Men's Thermal Underwear Set

M SPDR BASE LAYR SET
Black
Small
Spyder Men's Thermal Underwear Set Cover
Spyder Men's Thermal Underwear Set - 2 Piece Brushed Back Fleece Lined Long Johns Base Layer Set for Men (Sizes: S-XL), Size Small, Black

The Spyder Thermal Underwear Set is designed to keep you warm and comfortable during cold weather activities. With its advanced ThermoWeb technology, this set traps body heat, making it perfect for skiing or outdoor adventures. The moisture-wicking DryWeb technology ensures that sweat is pulled away from your skin, keeping you dry during intense activities. Plus, the flexible FlexWeb material allows for easy movement, so you can enjoy unrestricted mobility whether you're hitting the slopes or relaxing at home. This versatile set includes a long-sleeve shirt and pants, making it an essential addition to your winter wardrobe.

What We Like
Comfortable fabric
Good fit for various sizes
Effective for cold weather
Quality brand reputation
Subtle branding design
What We Don't Like
Not fleece-lined
Basic flat fabric
#TOP 5

Dalavch Thermal Compression Shirts

X-Large
Dalavch Thermal Compression Shirts Cover
Dalavch 5 Pack Thermal Compression Shirts for Men Long Sleeve Running Gear Undershirt Base Layer for Winter Cold Weather 3 Black 1 White 1 Grey X-Large

Dalavch Thermal Shirts offer excellent features to keep you warm and comfortable during cold weather. The innovative heat retention technology and soft fleece lining ensure you stay cozy, making them great for outdoor activities like running or hunting. They also feature moisture-wicking fabric that quickly draws sweat away, helping you feel fresh throughout your workouts or soccer games. With a four-way stretch design, these shirts provide a snug fit while allowing you to move freely, perfect for sports or active outings. Enjoy the ultimate comfort and performance with these versatile base layers.

What We Like
Great quality fabric
Comfortable and snug fit
Effective moisture-wicking
Value for 5-pack
Suitable for cold weather
What We Don't Like
Size may run small
Some misrepresented features
#TOP 6

Under Armour Men's ColdGear Fitted Mock

1366066
Black (001)/White
X-Large
Under Armour Men's ColdGear Fitted Mock Cover
Under Armour Men's ColdGear Armour Fitted Mock, Black (001)/White, X-Large

The Under Armour Men's ColdGear Fitted Mock is a dual-layer fabric shirt that keeps you warm in cold weather. The shirt features a brushed interior that provides ultra-warmth and a smooth, fast-drying exterior. The four-way stretch construction moves better in every direction, while the ergonomic design keeps seams off of high abrasion areas. The stretch-mesh back and underarm panels provide strategic ventilation without sacrificing warmth. The material wicks sweat and dries quickly, and the mock neck construction provides added coverage and warmth. The fitted, streamlined fit is not too tight or too loose.

What We Like
Excellent warmth retention
Comfortable fitted design
Stylish mock neck
Good for layering
Quick shipping
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent sizing
May run slightly large
#TOP 7

Thermajohn Men's Thermal Compression Shirt

00856780008831
Black
X-Large
Thermajohn Men's Thermal Compression Shirt Cover
Thermajohn Thermal Shirts for Men Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Shirts for Men Base Layer Cold Weather (Black, X-Large)

The Thermajohn Thermal Shirt is your go-to solution for staying warm in cold weather. Its heat retention feature ensures you remain cozy, making it perfect for outdoor activities or just lounging at home. With an ultra-soft fleece lining, you can enjoy all-day comfort without any irritation. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry by drawing sweat away from your body, so you feel fresh even during intense activities. Plus, the four-way stretch material allows for unrestricted movement, preventing any chafing or bunching. This shirt is an excellent choice for layering and will keep you comfortable no matter the situation.

What We Like
Soft and comfortable interior
Durable outer material
Good warmth retention
Great value for price
Fits snugly for layering
What We Don't Like
Size runs small
Short sleeve length
#TOP 8

32° DEGREES Men's Baselayer Crew Top

#9002
Charcoal Heather
X-Large
32° DEGREES Men's Baselayer Crew Top Cover
32° Degrees Men's Lightweight Baselayer Crew Top | Long Sleeve | Form Fitting | 4-Way Stretch | Thermal, Charcoal Heather, X-Large

The 32° DEGREES Baselayer Top is designed to keep you comfortable during any activity. Its fitted style and 28.5" body length ensure a snug fit that won't restrict your movement. The moisture-wicking fabric draws sweat away from your skin, helping you stay dry and comfortable. With anti-odor technology, you can wear this top longer without worrying about unpleasant smells. The 4-way stretch fabric allows for maximum flexibility, making it perfect for layering or wearing on its own. This lightweight top is ideal for various weather conditions, providing warmth without bulk.

What We Like
Good fit
Thin and not bulky
Soft and comfortable
Warm for the weight
Length for tucking in
What We Don't Like
Limited neck style options
#TOP 9

Spyder Men's Thermal Underwear Set

M SPYDR BASE LAYR 2P
Black/Heather Grey
Large
Spyder Men's Thermal Underwear Set Cover
Spyder Men's Thermal Underwear Set - 4 Piece Brushed Back Fleece Lined Long Johns Base Layer Set for Men (Sizes: S-XL), Size Large, Black/Heather Grey

The Spyder Thermal Underwear Set is designed to keep you warm and comfortable during cold weather activities. With ThermoWeb 1.0 technology, this base layer traps body heat, ensuring you stay cozy while skiing or snowboarding. The brushed fleece lining adds extra insulation, making it perfect for winter sports. Additionally, DryWeb technology actively wicks moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry during intense activities. The FlexWeb material allows for a snug fit that moves with you, providing unrestricted movement whether you're hitting the slopes or relaxing at home.

What We Like
Warm and comfortable
Great for layering
Excellent mobility
Durable and lightweight
True to size
#TOP 10

Dickies Mens Base Layer Long Johns Underwear Set

DKTHERM-PERF
Performance Black
Medium
Dickies Mens Base Layer Long Johns Underwear Set Cover
Dickies Mens Base Layer 2 Piece Performance Cold Weather Long Johns Underwear Set for Men

Dickies Mens Base Layer Long Johns Underwear Set is a two-piece performance cold weather clothing, which includes a long-sleeve pullover undershirt and bottoms. The cotton/spandex-blend fabric keeps you warm and comfortable while the elastic waistband provides a snug and supportive fit. The slim reinforced edges throughout the garment help it stay in place underneath clothing. This base layer set is easy to layer under your tops and bottoms with its lightweight and stretch-fit design, and it features Moisture Management Technology. The product is machine washable and tumble dryable for easy care and upkeep.

What We Like
Lightweight and warm
Moisture-wicking fabric
Good for outdoor activities
Soft and comfortable texture
What We Don't Like
Sizing inconsistencies
Thin feel for cold weather
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are base layers better than thermals?

Thermals are a type of base layer, but not all base layers are thermals. Both base layers and thermals provide moisture-wicking, but thermals offer more warmth. Base layers are designed to keep the body dry, while thermals prioritize keeping the body warm.

2. Are base layers and thermals the same?

Base layers and thermals serve a similar purpose of protecting the body from cold and keeping it dry. However, base layers focus more on moisture management, while thermals prioritize providing warmth.

3. At what temperature should you wear a base layer?

Base layers can be worn in any temperature. They help regulate body temperature by trapping heat in cold weather and keeping the body cool by wicking away sweat in hot weather.

4. Do you want base layers tight or loose?

A good base layer should fit snugly like a second skin. It should not be too tight to restrict movement or too loose to bunch up. A snug fit allows for freedom of movement while maintaining the fabric's effectiveness.

5. When should I start wearing base layers?

Base layers are particularly important in winter when they provide an extra layer of insulation and wick away sweat. They are also beneficial when transitioning between hot and cold environments or engaging in activities that may cause sweating in colder conditions.

6. Do base layers need to be skin tight?

Ideally, base layers should fit relatively snugly against the skin to effectively wick moisture. This allows the fabric to pick up moisture and keep the body dry. However, in warm weather or when wearing the base layer alone, a looser fit may be more comfortable.

Editor's Notes

During our base layer for men research, we found 48 base layer for men products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 295,732 customer reviews through our big data system to write the base layers for men list. We found that most customers choose base layers for men with an average price of $28.27.

The base layers for men are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of base layers for men, including Merino.tech, Thermajohn, Carhartt, Spyder, Dalavch. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 99 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
William Weston Avatar

William Weston was born in America and is currently a fashion industry designer. He's always been fascinated with the idea of taking something old and making it new again, so he decided to go into fashion design. William loves working on his designs and creating clothing that will make people look good while feeling comfortable at the same time.

Base Layers for Men Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Merino.tech Thermajohn Carhartt Spyder Dalavch Under Armour Thermajohn 32º DEGREES Spyder Dickies
Department mens mens mens mens mens mens mens mens mens mens
Fabric type 100 % merino wool 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex 100% Polyester 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex 100% Knit 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex 40% Polyester, 34% Acrylic, 22% Rayon, 4% Spandex 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
Origin Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported Imported
Care instructions Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash - Machine Wash Machine Wash - Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash
Closure type - - Pull On - Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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