Choosing Hiking Tops and Base Layers

Want to stay cool and dry on the mountain?

Hiking tops, often called base layers, are made of mainly polyester that has good wicking capabilities to get rid of your perspiration.

Wicking is the process of moving heat and perspiration away from your skin so that you stay drier and cooler. Polyester and certain other man-made fibres wick far better that cotton which we avoid for that very reason.

So forget your cotton shirts and vests and invest in some base layers (tops) made especially for outdoor sports such as hiking. The Patagonia and Lowe Alpine ranges are particularly good in our opinion. (Right) John in his Lowe Alpine top.

These hiking tops are crew or V necked with long or short sleeves and there is plenty of choice on the market. Use thin tops in summer and heavier tops in winter.

Mountain Gear currently sell Patagonia's Capilene 2 zip neck, long sleeve, 100% polyester base layer for just $24.97.

Merino wool base layers are also becoming popular because of their wicking properties and Sierra Trading Post currently sell Columbia Merino Wool baselayers for $57.95.

On its own a top will not be enough on cold or windy days as you climb higher and it is then best supplemented with a windbloc fleece (see fleeces page). This also creates a layered clothing system as well as blocking out the wind chill. In the UK check out Gearzone for baselayers, fleeces and hiking equipment generally.


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