Base Layers

Pablo Escobar wrote:
Last time I checked you couldn't get 3/4 length cold gear and the bottoms are uncomfortable in ski boots so I just cut them off.

http://www.freezeproshop.com/helly-hansen-mens-34-lifa-pant.ir?cName=brand-helly-hansen-thermal-bottoms

Like Trencher says the thick cotton based ones, no good. When you excercise and sweat they just stay wet and very, very cold. My Hubby learnt to his cost on our first ever ski trip. But those same thermals are great for him when working outside in the Winter, just not when he would work up a sweat. Silk thermals are our preference now.

Many years ago, it used to be that polypropylene was considered the only good stuff. Now days must of the stuff is polyester. I think it depends on the design of the fibres. But if yours are polyester, or a polyester mix, they should be fine. Wool blends make good base layers, provided they are soft. Some are not.

I see M&S do have wool long johns, but the others are cotton blends. It really depends on you, and the type of skiing you do. If you are a gentle cruiser, who never works up much of sweat, or does not go off piste (possibly getting stuck somewhere), I wouldn't worry too much if you had cotton blends. :wink:

Trencher

Pablo Escobar wrote:

Last time I checked you couldn't get 3/4 length cold gear and the bottoms are uncomfortable in ski boots so I just cut them off.

OH just got some of these, and they are rated as midweight and suitable for skiing. They look and feel the biz.

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Mizuno_Breath_Thermo_3~4_Tight_Base_Layer/5360045055/

http://www.icebreaker.com/site/performance/miraclefibre.html

enough said why bother with man made??
:wink

Janus base layers are pretty good.

www.norwegianstore.com/

Finn

Huw, this must all be confusing for you. I'm not going to make it any easier. For me:

Top half, cotton polo shirt from Matalan, £4.00, and ski jacket over. If below freezing, add a lightweight fleece or Matalan jersey, £10.00.

Bottom half, M&S Y fronts, salopettes.

I don't get cold. But, if you are in beginner classes, you are likely to be standing around waiting your turn, so you may need an extra layer. Aso, if you plan to ski in January, and are fortunate enough to be where there are north facing slopes, you will be in the shade for most of the day. Maybe wear a second fleece.

If you get too hot, you can remove a fleece layer, and tie it round your waist, under your jacket.

Or you can buy some silk underwear.

I mostly use HH stuff, if it's really cold I have some of their Pro-wool zip neck tops. Keep me nice and toasty :D
I don't like the soggy patches that cotton T-shirts and jumpers get. I think it's preferable to have a material that wicks perspiration away from the skin.
Not that I perspire, I glow, of course )