Still feeling the chill on the water? Perhaps you want something to keep you warm on a long overnight passage. A good sailing thermal base layer is essential, say Toby Hodges and Rupert Holmes
\nCrewing can offer unbeatable life experiences at relatively little cost. Photo: Tor JohnsonA technical base layer or sailing thermal is the foundation of any layering system. It adds warmth and comfort for minimal bulk.
\nWhile some elite athlete sailors may grind winches all day long, the majority of us who sail in weather cool enough to warrant wearing a base layer are static a lot of the time when afloat and will benefit from a thermal insulating layer.
\nBase layers are designed to transfer\/wick moisture away from the skin and in some cases to create a layer of insulation and warmth (hence the name thermals). Wicking works by capillary action from the skin to the exterior surface, so to achieve this base layers need to be tight fitting.
\nA good long-sleeved base layer and trousers has long been my first garment to pack for cold weather sailing. I also wear these performance base layers for exercise from running to skiing, and through the colder winter months working in my \u2018office\u2019 \u2013 believe me, days spent in a poorly insulated shed can be as unforgiving as long stints on the rail.
\nSailing base layers are typically made from synthetic fibres, such as polyester, which is good for wicking and durability, or polypropylene, known for its hydrophobic and thermal properties.
\nNatural fibres such as merino wool and bamboo have also become a popular choice. Merino is naturally insulating and breathable, is soft against the skin and doesn\u2019t pick up odours as quickly as man made materials. However, it is more expensive than polyester and takes longer to dry.
\nMost sailing clothing brands now offer both natural and synthetic base layers or a composite of both, so it\u2019s easy to find something that suits you. Cotton should be avoided as a technical layer as it absorbs moisture which then cools and makes you feel cold.
\nBest for light weight and exercise<\/p>\n
HH Lifa Stripe
\nHelly Hansen brought performance base layers to sailing and Alpine sports with its Lifa range, characterised by the striped sleeves.
\nI have used the original Lifa stripe garments for nearly two decades for lightweight insulation while exercising.
\nThe 100% polypropylene Lifa construction of the Stripe garments is quick-drying and highly breathable. The synthetic material does pick up odour so this is a wear and wash garment for short periods afloat.
\nBuy the Helly Hansen Lifa stripe Long sleeve top from Amazon (UK)
\nBuy the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Long Sleeve top from Amazon (US)
\nWith each product is a \u2018Buy it now\u2019 link. If you click on this then we may receive a small amount of money from the retailer when you purchase the item. This doesn\u2019t affect the amount you pay.
\nBest for warmth and exercise<\/p>\n
Zhik HydroMerino
\nZhik has established a reputation with performance sailors for its technical clothing. Its Hydrobase garments blend merino wool with synthetic fibres (polyester, polypropylene and elastane) to create durable, high-performance warmth.
\nThe thermals are designed for long periods of activity and were developed with the Dongfeng Race Team during the Volvo Ocean Race.
\nI\u2019ve worn these thermals over the last couple of years, especially in the colder winter months, and particularly like the external stitching which helps reduce chafe, and the high-stretch, Lycra-like ankles and cuffs.
\nOn the down side they are one of the most expensive choices and the wool content means they can sometimes feel itchy.
\nBuy Zhik Hydromarino Top from Zhik
\nBuy Zhik Hydromarino Trousers from Zhik
\nBest sailing thermal for comfort<\/p>\n
Musto Active base layers
\nHaving relied on these for nearly a decade, I\u2019ve found not only are they still going strong, but they remain the most comfortable base layers I\u2019ve tried.
\nDespite the synthetic mix of polyamide, polypropylene and elastane, they don\u2019t tend to smell badly either \u2013 perhaps thanks to an anti-bacterial treatment.
\nA variety of knits and weaves, including mesh and honeycomb knits, and a minimum number of seams really help provide comfort \u2013 these are base layers you really can live in.
\nBuy Musto Active Top from Musto
\nBest for warmth<\/p>\n
Zerofit thermals
\nZerofit\u2019s Heatrub Ultimate top and leggings are made of a stretchy mix of acrylic, nylon, wool, polyester and polyurethane, with a deep pile of long fibres that traps a thick layer of warm air next to your skin, writes Rupert Holmes.
\nAccording to Zerofit, extra heat is generated by friction whenever you move. I used the Ultimate top during six hours on a RIB for the start of the Vend\u00e9e Globe in November. Despite the damp and wind chill from travelling at speed I stayed impressively warm without needing many additional layers.
\nThe high neck also makes a telling difference in cold breeze.
\nBuy Zerofit Ultimate top from Amazon (UK)
\nAlso consider
\nFinisterre Merino
\nMerino and bamboo fibre base layers from the Cornish brand of functional and eco-conscious clothing.
\nBuy Finisterre Long sleeve top from Finisterre\u00a0<\/p>\n
Gill Holcombe
\nNearly half of this synthetic fibre top comprises a performance yarn made from recycled plastic bottles.
\nBuy Gill Holcombe Crew Top from Gill Marine<\/p>\n
If you enjoyed this\u2026.<\/p>\n
Yachting World is the world\u2019s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams.<\/p>\n
Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.<\/p>\n
The post Best sailing thermal: baselayers for year-round warmth appeared first on Yachting World.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Still feeling the chill on the water? Perhaps you want something to keep you warm on a long overnight passage. A good sailing thermal base layer is essential, say Toby Hodges and Rupert Holmes Crewing can offer unbeatable life experiences … <\/p>\n