The Purpose of Base Layers
The concept of layering clothing is now a well recognised method for keeping warm when it’s cold outside. Each layer of clothing traps warm air and insulates the body more efficiently than just a single layer. If you get too hot you can remove outer layers.
Thermal underwear and base layers are that first layer, and whilst a T-Shirt could be considered a base layer, purpose designed base layers fit tighter to the body and avoid “thermal leakage” – in other words they insulate more efficiently, with the added benefit of fitting under clothes better.
Wicking and Compression
Some base layers advertise built in wicking of sweat. This prevents build up of wet and sweaty areas – great for activities like mounting hiking, mounting biking, or snowboarding. This may be of little benefit to children compared to adults, however the wicking design helps regulate body temperature.
Compression base layers are ideal for sports with their tighter fit supporting muscles, which aids recovery and reduces risk of injury. Many also claim to increase performance (from personal experience, this appears to be true). The tighter fit also helps improve wicking and temperature regulation.
Base Layers for Kids
If you’re taking the family skiing then performance thermals are required. However, skiing is not the only outdoor winter activity that base layers help with. Just getting out hiking or geocaching and base layers could mean the difference between your children being cold and unhappy to not really noticing the weather.
A recommended base layer for kids
You may wish to have a look at the Trespass Potter thermal base layers. These come in sizes to fit as young as 2 years old, and as big as 16.
For the price you get both top and bottoms, and as well as keeping your children warm, the fabrics also wick moisture.
The Trespass range fits children from ages 2 to 16
Kids Base Layer Price Comparison
| Picture | From | Brand | Price * | What | Delivery | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  About Camping World | Trespass | £9.99 | Trespass Notch Kids Thermal Base Layer Pants 2012 | £2.95 | |
 | About Camping World | Trespass | £15.99 | Trespass Potter Kids Thermal Base Layer SET 2012 | £2.95 | |
 | About Camping World | Manbi | £16.99 | Manbi Supatherm Kids Base Layer Set | £2.95 | |
 | About Camping World | Trespass | £9.99 | Trespass Parson Kids Thermal Base Layer Top 2012 | £2.95 | |
| * Prices listed are from the last time we checked. We update the price information regularily but prices can change, so please double-check yourself, including the delivery charges, prior to purchasing. | ||||||
