Hot Chillys has long been a solid go-to brand in the base layer category, and it’s fun to see them step up their game with options that are as much fashionable as functional.
- Midweight Warmth.
- Odor Blocking Properties.
- Moisture Wicking.
- Machine Wash Cold.
- Mid-Weight, Moisture-Wicking Fabric (Moisture Transfer Fibers).
And if you think you don’t need a base layer set-up just because you don’t enjoy winter snowsports, think again: base layers like the ones below are ideal for travelers in most places in most seasons.
I’ve worn base layers on airplanes, in countries with high altitudes, on hiking trips, on river rafting excursions, and under street clothes on chilly days in Europe. Every serious traveler needs a go-to base layer option. Here’s what Hot Chillys has in store this winter:
Fiesta tight: The women’s Fiesta Tight is made with a high performance fabric with added spandex for a stretchy, comfy fit. They don’t slouch down (you know what I’m talking about, ladies) and I’ve both skied in these and run in them.
They’re thinner than most Hot Chillys tight options, but they still have the embedded odor-blocking component that keeps them from smelling…perfect if you’re packing them and carrying them along for a few days. Pick up a pair in one of many fun patterns for $70.
Micro-Elite Chamois: Hot Chillys’ micro-elite chamois top is a classic. I like the 3/4 zip top because I get some breathability while the chamois feels more like a shirt than a jacket.
It’s thicker than the Fiesta tight, made with a blend of enhanced polyester and spandex fibers (and yes, you still get that bio-silver anti-microbial magic that keeps the fabric from retaining odors.
This is my go-to base layer for longer hikes, sleeping in the outdoors, and ski days. It’s a bit too warm for air and car travel days, but perfect to have in your bag for arrival during winter trips.
I only wish it had thumb holes. It comes in three colors, including black, wild grape and white and is $70 from most online retailers.
Kids’ mid-weight crew and pant: My kids don’t like anything too thick or hot, so the mid-weight crew and pant combo from Hot Chillys is ideal. The crew top has a relaxed fit and comes in a bunch of fun patterns (I love that most of them are solidly unisex) and the shirt is composed of 100% polyester MTF fibers.
- Midweight Warmth.
- Odor Blocking Properties.
- Moisture Wicking.
- Machine Wash Cold.
- Mid-Weight, Moisture-Wicking Fabric (Moisture Transfer Fibers).
The pant is made of the same weight fabric, and also comes in several color/pattern combinations. Best of all, the top is $35 and the pant is $32, so buying your kids their own dedicated base layers won’t set you back.
And I know from experience that Hot Chillys gear lasts a lot time, so by all means, pass along those layers to the next kid.