How to Choose Base Layers

A synthetic base layer for moderate temps, the women's REI Co-op Lightweight base layer tights keep you dry and comfortable whether you're venturing into the mountains or trekking across open desert.
Imported.
View all REI Co-op Women's Base Layer BottomsBest Use | Multisport |
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Fabric | 94% recycled polyester/6% spandex (bluesign approved) |
Sun-Protective Fabric | Yes |
UPF Rating | 50+ |
Moisture Wicking | Yes |
Quick Drying | Yes |
Underwear Weight | Lightweight |
Inseam (in.) | 28 inches |
Gender | Women's |
Sustainability | Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria Fair Trade Certified™ factory Contains recycled materials From a Climate Label Certified brand |
XXS | XS | S | M | L | XL | 1X | 2X | 3X | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18W | 20W | 22W | 24W | 26W | |
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Numerical Size | 00 | 0-2 | 4-6 | 8-10 | 12-14 | 16 | 18 | 20-22 | 24-26 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 22 | 24 | 26 |
Bust | 31 | 32-33 | 34-35 | 36-37 | 38.5-40 | 41-42.5 | 43-45 | 47-49 | 51-53 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38.5 | 40 | 42.5 | 45 | 47 | 49 | 51 | 53 |
Sleeve Length | 29.5 | 30 | 30.5 | 31 | 31.5 | 32 | 32.5 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 30 | 30 | 30.5 | 30.5 | 31 | 31 | 31.5 | 31.5 | 32 | 32.5 | 33.5 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 34.5 |
Waist | 24.5 | 25.5-26.5 | 27.5-28.5 | 29.5-30.5 | 32-33.5 | 34.5-36.5 | 37.5-39.5 | 40.5-42.5 | 44.5-46.5 | 25.5 | 26.5 | 27.5 | 28.5 | 29.5 | 30.5 | 32 | 33.5 | 36 | 38.5 | 40.5 | 42.5 | 44.5 | 46.5 |
Hip | 34 | 35-36 | 37-38 | 39-40 | 41.5-43 | 44-46 | 47-49 | 50-52 | 54-56 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38 | 39 | 40 | 41.5 | 43 | 45.5 | 48 | 50 | 52 | 54 | 56 |
Inseam | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 |
Measurements are stated in inches unless otherwise indicated. Size chart values represent body measurements, not garment measurements. Some women's pants are available in petite and tall sizes. Typically petite sizes fit women 4'11" to 5'3". Regular sizes fit women 5'4" to 5'8". Tall sizes fit women 5'9" to 5'11".
PETITE: Generally, as compared to regular sizes, petite sizes are 2.5 inches shorter in inseam, 1 inch shorter in body length, 1.25 inches shorter in sleeve length and Âľ inch shorter in total rise.
TALL: tall sizes are 3 inches longer in inseam, 2 inches longer in body length, 2.5 inches longer in sleeve length and 1.25 inches longer in total rise.
Capri or cropped pants have an intentionally shorter inseam—reference the technical specs instead of this chart.
Inseam is measured to the floor.
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.
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I've been wearing these REI Co-op base layer leggings (Size Small, 94% polyester / 6% spandex) during outdoor activities such as snowboarding (spring riding in California) and hikes, and they've exceeded my expectations. The fabric is incredibly stretchy, which allows for a full range of motion without any discomfort or bunching. Whether I’m walking, stretching, or sitting, they move with me and never feel restrictive. One of the standout features is the waistband support. It's snug and secure without digging in, and most importantly—it prevents the leggings from sliding down or needing adjustment throughout the day. That makes a huge difference, especially during active movement or layering under other gear.
I've been wearing these as a base layer for hiking and on some runs. They are indeed lightweight and very comfortable--but for the elastic waistband, I would have forgotten I was wearing them! The fabric of the tights itself feels great, and I felt comfortable throughout all my workouts, even on days when the weather was a bit warmer. The tights did keep me warm, but not oppressively so, which is a plus for days when the weather is warmer but you still want another layer. The only thing I didn't love is the waistband--it just felt a bit different/a little less comfy than the rest of the tights. That said, every base layer I've worn has had a similar style waistband, and the waistband was very effective in keeping the tights in place, so I really can't complain too much!
These tights are so comfortable. I was concerned that they wouldn't be long enough (I'm 5' 9") but no worries there, they're plenty long without any stretch at the knees like other tights I've tried. The feel is super smooth against the skin and my hiking pants don't 'catch' at all on the fabric. These tights are perfect for a chilly hiking day and/or as part of a sleep system on overnight backpack trips.
All over I liked these base layer pants. They were lightweight without being see-through, and I was easily able to fit them underneath my regular pants. My only complaint is that they were a little baggy, making them a little uncomfortable when they bunched under my pants.
Surprisingly thin and insulating despite the light fabric. Wouldn’t be mistaken for leggings or something I’d want to wear without layering over it. The waistband is smooth but gives definite long underwear vibes for styling. Love the locker hook! So far has washed nicely. Still can’t decide if it’s a blue or gray or purplish color!
The size chart is spot on -- I was worried that they might be too short, or that they might not fit my personal shape (I'm 5' 11", 180ish, with larger calves, bought size XL). They reach to about 2 inches above my ankle bone, and while close-fitting, they are not too tight. I wore them under REI Co-op Trailmade Pants. The pants alone don't do a great job of blocking wind, but with this base layer, the wind is not a problem. Very happy with this purchase.
Item fit well overall. I would prefer a bit more stretch considering this is a base layer worn underneath additional clothing. The waist band was slightly tight on me. I'd prefer it was made of the same material the pants are made of, rather than elastic waist band material. The material is soft, so plenty comfortable.