What Women Should Know About Baselayers: The First Step to a Great Ski Day

Nobody heads to the mountain planning to be cold, clammy, or uncomfortable. Yet without the right first layer, that’s exactly what happens. Baselayers—the pieces you wear right next to your skin—are the foundation of your ski outfit. Choose wisely, and you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready for every run. Choose poorly, and you’ll spend more time shivering than skiing.

Here’s how to pick the perfect baselayer for women skiers.

Fabric Matters: Wool vs. Synthetic (Spoiler: Never Cotton)

Let’s start with a non-negotiable: cotton is the enemy. Once it’s wet, it stays wet—and wet equals cold. Stick to wool, synthetics, or blends.

• Synthetic Fabrics (polyester/nylon):
  Lightweight, soft, affordable, and excellent at wicking moisture away. Great for warmer days or high-output activities where sweat is a factor.

• Wool (merino):
  Warmth-to-weight superstar and naturally odor resistant (perfect for multi-day trips). Some find it itchy, but blends like LeBent’s bamboo + merino solve that problem with extra softness.

Pro tip: Have both wool and synthetic in your closet. That way you can match your baselayer to conditions—synthetic for warmer or sweatier days, wool for frigid temps.

Baselayer Weights: Pick the Right Warmth

Baselayers aren’t one-size-fits-all. They come in a range of weights:

• Ultralight / Silk Weight: Thin and breathable, best for high-output activities.

• Midweight: The sweet spot for skiing—enough warmth without bulk.

• Expedition Weight: Serious insulation for the coldest days.

For skiing, you’ll deal with bursts of energy (mogul runs, hiking a ridge) and plenty of downtime (chairlift chills). A midweight top or a thin synthetic layer like the Fryd Top from Kari Traa strikes the balance. For extra cold conditions, try the LeBent Women’s Midweight Crew—warmth of wool, softness of bamboo, and ideal for layering under your jacket.

The Bottom Line on Baselayers

Your baselayer is the unsung hero of your ski kit. The right one keeps you warm without overheating, dry without feeling clammy, and comfortable from first chair to après. Stock both synthetic and wool options in a few different weights, and you’ll always be ready—whether it’s a bluebird cruiser day or a stormy powder hunt.