Mens Outdoor Clothing

What is a base layer? I'm ashamed to say that until I started working for a company selling outdoor clothing I'd never heard of it. I wish someone had told me about them years ago. I could have done with owning a few. Those cold mornings mucking out and tacking up. I'm surprised I could mount up with the amount of clothing I had to wear to stop myself freezing to death. I looked like the female version of the Michelin Man!

A base layer is a fantastic piece of clothing to own. It's versatile and lightweight. Wear it under heavier clothing to keep you warm in colder weather or on its own in warmer climates. Base layers offer high performance and have fast wicking properties keeping moisture away from the body. Some base layers are treated with an anti-bacterial property to fight odour.

Some protect you from UV rays with a UPF protection rating. Most importantly base layers are breathable meaning that if used as part of an insulation system they will allow you freedom to enjoy whatever your chosen activity.

A lot of today's base layers are made from sustainable performance fabrics like Bamboo and recycled fabrics which offer durability and are better for the environment. Not only that but they feel good and look great. They also do their job; Bamboo has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Bamboo fabric can absorb up to four times more moisture than cotton. Bamboo clothing is soft offering next to skin comfort. Whatever it is you are into, whether hiking, cycling, running, biking or horse riding, a base layer is a great addition to your wardrobe.

The mid layer fleece offers essential lightweight insulation. Use over a base layer, under a waterproof jacket to keep you warm and cosy in colder conditions when backpacking, trekking or travel. The insulation combination is great for versatility if you are too warm you can take a layer off or if you are too cold you can add one. Both base layers and mid layers are lightweight so if you need to stash one in your rucksack it won't weigh you down. Mid layers usually have a deep front zipper which is great for ventilation. Some can be zip in compatible with shell jackets giving you a great look.

Combining a base layer, mid layer and shell jacket is great for technical use. You can keep warm and protected whilst feeling comfortable without being weighed down. Technical tights are also available to wear as mid insulation or in colder conditions as a base layer. They are contoured and shaped for comfort, ideal for mountain use.

A waterproof jacket finishes off the insulation system perfectly. Water resistant, breathable and durable you will be protected against the harshest of conditions when you combine all three items. Jackets are available for specifically mountain use, for hiking and travel and for those chilly winter days. A waterproof jacket offers performance and most offer a range of great features. Of course you don't need to combine it with other layers; a waterproof jacket can be worn on its own and will still protect you from wind, rain and snow.

Technical pants are also available for the dedicated outdoors enthusiast. Most are lightweight and offer maximum mobility. Today's outdoor clothing is designed to let you do your chosen activity without the weather stopping you. Performance fabrics are rugged, durable and can take whatever you throw at them.... and then some.