Over the past decade, the popularity of brands like Under Armour has seriously boosted the profile of base layers and their benefits. The best men's base layers have stuck around because they're more than just a temporary fitness fashion item – they work, and they work well. They’re now considered a must-have product, assisting in the performance of both high and low intensity exercise, be it running or hiking, weightlifting or yoga.
When most people think of layers, they think cold weather and trying to keep warm. With standard clothing this certainly the case, but with base layers the story is a little different. Of course there are those base layer garments which are designed for snowboarders and trekkers, with lightweight insulation and heat capture for cold climates and the winter months. But there’re also base layers for exactly the opposite purpose, made of lightweight super breathable, moisture wicking material working to keep your temperature regulated during summertime exercise - there are even some products with UPF sun protection rating.
The best men's base layers at a glance:
• The best short sleeved men’s base layer: Gymshark Element Baselayer T-Shirt - View at Gymshark
• The best men’s base layer top for hiking: Montane Men's Dart Thermal Zip Neck Long Sleeved Top - View at Go Outdoors
• The best Nike men’s base layer: Nike Pro Men's Dri-FIT Tight Long-Sleeve Fitness Top - View at Nike
For exercise, both cardio and weightlifting, compression base layers are a popular option. Compression base layers combine heat regulation technologies with muscle support – the theory behind this is to increase endurance, performance and reduce lactic acid build up. These also make a great alternative to looser gym wear – the second skin fit makes them good for mobility, and they won't flap or snag on equipment in addition to all the comfort benefits.
We’ve compiled a list of the best men’s base layers for an array of situations – find the one that’s right for your situation and you can’t go wrong.
The best men's base layers of 2024:
The best long sleeved men’s base layer
Under Armourwww.underarmour.co.uk
Experience ultimate comfort with a premium base layer, this is the Under Armour Men's HeatGear® Long Sleeve. Designed for peak performance, it wicks sweat, regulates body temperature, and stretches for unrestricted movement in any activity.
Pros
- Extremely hight quality
- Breathable and performance enhancing compression fit
- Plenty of colour options
Cons
- Not ideal if you’re gaining muscle/weight as it won’t fit for long
| Sizes | XS-3XL |
| Colours | 8 variations |
| Fit | Compression |
| Material | Polyester/Elastane |
- Customer review: “The compression shirt is a perfect fit and great quality. It is a great addition to my son’s sports gear. It has been used a lot during workouts and for a base layer due to playing outdoors in cooler temperatures.”
The best short sleeved men’s base layer
Gymsharkuk.gymshark.com
The Men's Element Baselayer T-Shirt by Gymshark has been engineered for optimal workout performance. It offers muscle-hugging fit, sweat-wicking fabric, and breathable design for enhanced comfort and mobility during intense training sessions. The design might be basic, but that's probably why it has such an attractive price tag.
Pros
- Brilliant quality
- Breathable and comfortable
- Affordable options
Cons
- Design is slightly basic
| Sizes | XS-3XL |
| Colours | Black, White, Silhouette Grey, Utility Green |
| Fit | Compression |
| Material | Polyester/Elastane |
The best men’s sleeveless base layer
Nike
The Nike Pro Men's Dri-FIT Tight Sleeveless Fitness Top features advanced moisture management, a snug fit for support, and breathable fabric, ensuring comfort and mobility during rigorous workouts and training. We'd just love to see it in more colours though.
Pros
- Mobility-promoting design
- Quality build
- Highly versatile
Cons
- Could be more colours available
| Sizes | S-XXL |
| Colours | White, Black, Grey |
| Fit | Tight |
| Material | Recycled polyester |
- Customer review: “I love wearing this under my basketball jersey during games.”
The best men’s base layer top for running
Go Outdoorswww.gooutdoors.co.uk
The Montane Men’s Dart Lite Long-Sleeved T-Shirt is your lightweight companion for running, offering exceptional breathability, moisture control, and quick-drying capabilities for ultimate comfort in outdoor pursuits. Built by a quality running brand, you can expect nothing but the best.
Pros
- Fit is close to the body but not too tight
- Breathable
- Quality running brand
Cons
- Only available in the one colour
| Sizes | XS-XXL |
| Colours | Blue |
| Fit | Tailored |
| Material | Recycled polyester |
The best men’s base layer leggings for running
Go Outdoorswww.gooutdoors.co.uk
The Rab Men's Flux Pants deliver unparalleled comfort and flexibility for running. Featuring moisture-wicking fabric, breathable construction, and a stretch fit, they're ideal for dynamic outdoor activities like running. Rab is quality, and you're paying for that quality here, but there's no denying the more affordable options out there.
Pros
- Slim fit makes these an essential running garment
- Very lightweight
- High stretch
Cons
- Cheaper options offer nearly the same experience
| Sizes | S-XXL |
| Colours | Black |
| Fit | Slim |
| Material | Polyester/Elastane |
- Customer review: “Fantastic pair for pants, I’ve worn mine many on their own, ideal for the cooler summer days, but also they’ll be ideal for a base layer pant come winter.”
The best men’s base layer top for hiking
Go Outdoorswww.gooutdoors.co.uk
Looking for an essential hiking base layer? Look no further than the Montane Men's Dart Thermal Zip Neck Top. It combines warmth, breathability, and moisture management for cold-weather activities. Its zip neck design allows for temperature regulation during any and all outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Zip neck for added insulation
- Quality brand, quality materials
- Tailored fit is comfortable and breathable
Cons
- Only one colour available
| Sizes | XS-XXXL |
| Colours | Burgendy |
| Fit | Tailored |
| Material | Recycled fabric |
The best men’s thermal base layer top
AmazonRrp: £24.99
The Mountain Warehouse Talus Mens Thermal Baselayer Top offers essential warmth and comfort for chilly adventures. Its soft, lightweight fabric provides excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties for all-day wear. It's a super value option for a thermal base layer, but that does mean that it may not take well to real heavy wear.
Pros
- Super comfortable thermal
- Affordable
- Reputable brand
Cons
- May show signs of wear under hard wear
| Sizes | XXs-4XL Plus |
| Colours | 11 variations |
| Fit | Tailored |
| Material | Polyester |
- Customer review: “Honestly can’t fault this top. I was using them as a long-sleeved t-shirt whilst wait training outdoors in my garden during the winter nights. I’m actually shocked at how well they wear. For such lightweight material they do very well at keeping your body heat in.”
The best men’s half zip base layer
AmazonThe Under Armour Men's UA Tech 2.0 1/2 Zip takes the crown for best half zip base layer. It's designed for comfort and versatility, featuring quick-drying, ultra-soft fabric and a streamlined fit for superior performance in any activity. It does however wear small, so we recommend going for the size up.
Pros
- #1 Amazon best seller
- So many colours to choose from
- Great fit
Cons
- Wears small, get the size up
| Sizes | XS-4XL |
| Colours | 14 variations |
| Fit | Standard |
| Material | Synthetic |
- Customer review: “Excellent product, very good for workout. Keep your joints warm, breathe and stylish.”
The best men’s base layer leggings for the gym
Gymsharkuk.gymshark.com
Gymshark Men's Element Baselayer Leggings are designed to enhance your training with their muscle-supportive compression fit, moisture-wicking technology, and flexible fabric for maximum comfort and performance during workouts. The compression fit means there's little room for muscle growth, so those looking to add serious leg gains may want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Built for performance
- Solid value
- Lots of colours to choose from
Cons
- Don’t allow for drastic growth
| Sizes | XS-3XL |
| Colours | 9 variations |
| Fit | Compression |
| Material | Polyester/Elastane |
The best Nike men’s base layer
NikeThe Nike Pro Men's Dri-FIT Tight Long-Sleeve Fitness Top offers comfort and support like no other with its class-leading moisture-wicking fabric, snug fit, and breathable design. It's near perfect for high-intensity workouts and training sessions. This is signature Nike. Buyers have noted that the material of the Nike tick on the skin can take some getting used to.
Pros
- Premium Nike quality
- Simple but sleek design
- Available in a range of colours
Cons
- Material of the Nike tick on the skin can take some getting used to
| Sizes | S-XXL |
| Colours | 6 variations |
| Fit | Tight |
| Material | Polyester/Elastane |
- Customer review: “Exactly what I was looking for to play basketball in. Very comfortable and fits perfectly.”