Our baselayers are designed to make your trail runs more comfortable by regulating your temperature and layering well with the rest of your running kit. Adaptable, designed for motion and a lifetime of running.
Running is an active sport and our bodies react to this by heating up and pumping out sweat. Your skin works miracles, perspiration cools us down but if that sweat is left to accumulate on your skin that cooling effect is diminished.
The impact of environment on your comfort
We like to explore off the beaten track. Shady forest trails, exposed moorlands, wind beaten coastal footpaths and misty mountain byways. Running is freedom and stopping to change your layers as you pass from one to another is a drag. Yet the transition from the shelter and humidity of the forest trail to the windchill of an exposed high mountain trail is real. Sweat starts to accumulate, your shirt sticks to your back, and your body begins to chill uncomfortably. This is the reality of running without the right baselayer.
Weather and its unpredictable effects
Venturing into the hills as we do, we confront variable weather. The sun may start with his hat on, but you can rest assured his sou'wester is close to hand. A sunny day turning into a rainstorm, or a cool morning warming up quickly, can make you cool quickly or sweat excessively. Without the right baselayer, you’re left dealing with wet, clammy clothing that hinders your run.
Managing intensity and carrying essentials
The intensity of your run is another key factor. As you push yourself, your body generates heat and sweat. If your baselayer doesn’t wick this moisture away efficiently, it can leave you feeling damp and cold.
Additionally, we often carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, or a light jacket for safety and nutrition. These items can add friction and trap heat, making it crucial that your baselayer helps manage this added burden.
Seasonal variations and the length of your run
The diversity of our seasons helps stimulate interest in running throughout the year. The season affects what we need from our baselayer. In winter, we need warmth and moisture management. In summer, we need something light and breathable. The duration of our runs also plays a role. A short run might not cause much discomfort, but over a long distance, the wrong baselayer can lead to chafing and irritation.
The benefits of choosing the right running baselayer
Trail running baselayers are designed to keep you dry and comfortable during your run. A good baselayer helps regulate your temperature, wicks away sweat, and dries quickly. This means you stay comfortable, whether you’re tackling a steep incline or sprinting downhill.
Baselayers as part of your running gear
Baselayers are a crucial part of your running gear. They manage moisture and keep you comfortable. Here are the main material choices:
Merino wool: Great for cooler runs. It wicks moisture, dries fairly quickly, and resists odour naturally. Ideal for longer, colder runs.
Synthetic fibres: Made from polyester or nylon, they excel in moisture management and quick drying. Perfect for intense runs in warmer weather.
Merino and synthetic blends: These combine the strengths of both materials, offering versatility for different conditions. They wick moisture and dry quickly, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
Considering the environment
Environmental impact is important when choosing baselayers. Merino wool is a natural, renewable resource. Some synthetic options use recycled materials, reducing their environmental footprint. Opt for sustainable choices to minimise your impact on nature. Anti-microbial treatments such as Polygiene also reduce the amount you need to wash your garments, helping it last longer and reduce water use.
Our baselayer solutions for trail runners
Covering hundreds of km's each year we have a lot of runners in our team. Here are some of our baselayer picks which help get us out running all year round:
Aztec long sleeve merino and recycled polyester blend baselayer: Lightweight, corespun merino long sleeve base layer for high intensity performance. Lighter, cooler and more durable than pure merino whilst retaining that soft natural feel.
Vayper Short Sleeve baselayer: Made from 100% recycled fabric, Vayper is incredibly soft, light and fast-drying. With a close athletic cut Vayper does what every good running baselayer should do; pull sweat away from your skin as quickly as possible. When worn underneath layers the fabric traps narrow pockets of still, warm air, adding extra warmth without bulk.
Koulin trail tee: Our go to base layer tee with Polygiene® anti-odour technology. Wicking and fast-drying with breathable mesh panels for staying comfortable when running. The fit is relaxed enough to wear comfortably on its own, but slim enough to layer neatly under a midlayer or shell. Low profile flatlock seams are comfortable next to the skin and don’t dig in if you are wearing a running pack.
Koulin trail vest: All the benefits of the trail tee with shorter arms for warmer weather! Wicking and fast-drying 100% recycled polyester fabric with Polygiene® anti-odour technology for multiple wears. Body-mapped mesh panels dump heat and moisture to keep you in your stride.
The root of your trail running comfort
Choosing the right baselayer is fundamental to your trail running comfort. It forms the foundation of your running gear, managing moisture and maintaining your body temperature. With the right baselayer, you’ll stay dry and comfortable, ready to enjoy any trail.