How to Choose Base Layers

Warm merino wool base layer bottoms for skiing, snowshoeing and other cold-weather pursuits, the women's Icebreaker 260 Tech High-Rise Leggings are a go-to piece for winter layering.
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Imported.
View all Icebreaker Women's Base Layer BottomsBest Use | Multisport |
---|---|
Fabric | Main body: 100% wool; middle layer: 73% polyester/27% elastane |
Moisture Wicking | Yes |
Quick Drying | Yes |
Underwear Weight | Midweight |
Inseam (in.) | 29.5 inches |
Gender | Women's |
2X | 3X | XS | S | M | L | XL | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Numerical Size | 0-2 | 4-6 | 8-10 | 12-14 | 16-18 | ||
Bust | 42 - 46 | 46 - 49.5 | 30 - 32.25 | 32.5 - 34.5 | 34.5 - 37 | 37 - 39.5 | 39.5 - 42 |
Waist | 36 - 40 | 40 - 44 | 24 - 26 | 26 - 28 | 28 - 30.5 | 30.5 - 33 | 33 - 36 |
Hip | 45 - 48.5 | 48.5 - 52 | 33 - 35.5 | 35.5 - 38 | 38 - 40 | 40 - 42.5 | 42.5 - 45 |
Measurements are stated in inches unless otherwise indicated.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIZE: If your body measurements are midway between two sizes, select the smaller size for a tighter fit or the larger size for a looser fit. If your body measurements result in different sizes, we recommend using your chest measurement for tops and your hip measurement for pants.
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I got these to use under my waders for fall steelhead fishing in the PNW. It’s been getting down to the high 30s low 40s just before sunrise and I felt pretty comfortable getting in the water with these. I tent to run cold so these are warm for a base layer.
Have not worn these yet - my review is based on trying on the leggings. The fit and fabric are excellent. Fabric is soft and not as itchy as some wool base layer pieces and there is a good amount of stretch and recovery. They look to be well made - I especially like the waist band construction which is more like a pair of work out leggings than the basic elastic waist other competitors use. I would definitely recommend - and will follow up after wearing!
Took these base layer leggings while skiing in some pretty rough conditions with rain and high winds. Despite the low temperatures and cold wind I felt pretty warm with these on under my snow pants. I also like that on the warmer days I was able to wear these cross country skiing under lighter pants and didn’t overheat. They really do temperature regulate which is awesome. I plan on taking these with me to Switzerland this winter because I trust they will get the job done.
I'm cold all the time so I wear wool base layers all day every day from October - April. These have become my new favorite pair. I was honestly worried that the high rise would annoy me, but I love it. It fits very nicely around my waist and doesn't dig in anywhere. It also love the extra coverage the high waist gives me. They're very warm and not itchy at all. If you're in between sizes, definitely size up.
I got these for my wife as a Christmas gift. She loved the way they felt, but the first time she put them on she noticed a hole in them. I contacted the company who told me they didn’t have any left so I was given a refund. I must say I’m pretty disappointed in quality control and in the company as a whole, not even being able to replace them instead of a refund.
I use these bottoms as a base layer for winter hiking and kayaking. They are very comfortable and warm. I usually do not like wool next to my skin, but these are very soft and not bulky. I will be using them on a kayaking trip in Greenland in August.
Went to the arctic circle to view the northern lights and it did its job of keeping me warm! Not itchy. I can see how others have written about the waist not really being stretchy, but as long as you look at the sizing measurements, it fits well.
My previous pair was thicker and not transparent as these seem to be (they were both 260 weight). That pair has a hole, which is common in wool, but not the long wear I anticipated for the cost. It is clear this new pair will not hold up as well.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I love Icebreaker products and need a new pair of leggings. The waistband is more constricting than forgiving; yet the size is the same size as my other pairs of Icebreaker Leggings. I'm returning, sadly.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Great purchase! Super warm- worn in 0-20 degrees F for skiing and these were all I needed as a base layer. Thick band but comfy through the body and legs.