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 Bottoms| Best 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 |
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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.
I’m 5’5” weighing 135 pounds. I’m pear shaped. My hips are 40 inches and my waist is 29. The L size fits beautifully. I tried them in and just kept them on for the night. So comfy!!
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!
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.
I got these in December for my wife. She works in yard doing inventory on cars she just walks around all day nothing crazy no kind of winter sports or anything and they started falling apart on her already.
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 took this with me on a long week at Mammoth Mountain for snowboarding. Wore this set under a shell everyday with weather that ranged from 30-56 degrees. Both pieces are well constructed, neat and tidy stitching and fit true to size. I am 5'2, 125-130# and a small fit me perfectly. There is a good amount of stretch without it being too tight or too baggy. Easily returns to original shape after use. I followed cleaning directions on the tags and was able to machine wash and flat dry with no problems. This is especially important to me because although I want natural fibers, I also want maintenance to be easy as well. The merino was so soft, breathable, and versatile. Kept me warm on very chilly mornings and was able to breathe and keep me warm enough against the wind, but cool enough during snowboarding in the sunshine on what felt like late spring skiing. Odor was kept to a minimum especially compared to my other synthetic heavy weight baselayers. I'm personally opting for more natural fibers in my wardrobe and merino wool is a great option.
These leggings are the perfect base layer beneath my dry suit when kayaking and rafting in colder temperatures. The high waist permits more range of motion without getting a cold drafty spot in my lower back, and the wool's natural tendency to wick moisture, stay warm when damp and resist odors is most welcome on multi-day trips. This will be a treasured item in the Grand Canyon this January!
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.