Snowboarding
A Note Regarding Your Underwear
A few months ago I was in a bar with Adam and Steve (both of whom blog here on H.O.), and Steve mentioned that I was insane for not wearing a proper base-layer while snowboarding. He said that I had to go out and get one of those newer ones with the wicking fabric which keeps moisture from your body.
Cotton sweats or old-fanshioned longjohns have always been good enough for me, but perhaps I was missing out. So a few days ago I went into a sporting goods store and with the few minutes I had, I grabbed a very fancy pair of UnderArmor brand pants that looked super tight and “wicky”. I didn’t have time to try them on. It was only the next day that I realised I could not even get these pants past my knees because they are too small (no exaggeration). I can’t imagine any of the larger sizes being very comfortable, but I will exchange the pair I bought and give it another shot. I just can’t imagine these new space-aged, super-thin fabrics keeping me warm enough.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has a Guide to snowboarding base layers that you can view here.
What base layers work for you? Do you have different sets for different conditions? How many layers do you normally wear? I’m curious what formula works for other people to keep them warm, dry, and comfortable.
Discussion
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I usually wear North Face baselayer a pair of gym shorts for an extra layer on my but for cold chairlifts and uninsulated pants. If it is going to be below zero farenhiet i will wear a pair of fleece pants. On top i wear base layer and a northface midlayer with my lightly insulated shell. That seems to work good here in colorado. when i ws riding in Maine i would usually add an extra mid layer since it was much colder.
I picked up my base layers from Mountain Equipment Co-Op a few years ago. Ever since I’ve been much warmer on the hill.
I usually only wear a mid layer on my upper body, and I have a nice fleece also from MEC, and a Volcom hoodie that I use for that. The Volcom hoody is from their V-Line Science line which uses better (wicking etc.) fabrics than a regular hoodie and it is also less bulky which means it fits under my jacket better.
MEC is a great place to get underlayers. Of course you could go totally brand name and buy Burton underlayers.
Actually Burton just recently came out with nice, thick joggy-pants like underlayers that are totally moisture-wicking and breathable. Or you can go for their thinner stuff.
I’ve always stayed warm and dry with their stuff, both tops and bottoms
I like the Helly Hansen base layer, with a dri-fit t-shirt on top. I also wear Columbia brand long johns.
If my Helly is dirty I’ll actually wear a cotton shirt. Gasp! But yes, dude, base layers of some sort are what it’s all about.
–adam
Thanks for all of the suggestions. Maybe I can make it down to MEC this weekend. I need to go to Hogtown to pick up a sharpener for my new board and it’s fancy shmancy edges.
PS: VancityAllie has some amazing photos on her blog – check them out!
I’m real simple for my base layer….usually it is just moisture wicking shorts and shirt (generally what I run in during the summer and fall). Over that is insulated bib overalls with wool socks and a nice warm thick Marker jacket. I never really have any problems save for some cold toes which the toe warmers seem to do the trick and cold finger tips (for that I really need to get some better gloves).
Perhaps I don’t run into overheating problems because I am usually not out early or late in the season.
Airblaster Ninja Suit. Nothing better than a good old one piece with a hood and a but flap. So choice.
Just remember, when it comes to base layers “cotton kills!”
Thanks a lot Josh!
Post some pics of what you ended up getting!
I’m late to the game, but I am partial to Kombi…
http://www.kombisports.com/kombi_us/baselayer.php
Well, I decided to stick with the NEw Balance and Nike wicking shirts that I alreay own.
Last night on the way home from work I picked up a pair of Helly Hansen Warm Series pants. Take a loook here: http://www.hellyhansen.com/product/baselayerHHWarm/ProwoolPant/48962/view/901
These cost as much or more than any pants I own, but I think they will be worth it.
I recently found myself a pair of Paradox brand baselayer at Costco. I only bought the shirt because I already have pants. The quality seems decent and the price is excellent, so if you are on a budget, check these out!
Also there a helmets, goggles and gloves (got me some of these) that are good quality brand names and a great value. I don’t know how many Costco’s would carry these items, but it might be worth checking out.
The biggest problem with wearing anything cotton when out in the snow is that if you get lost or stuck in the snow, you’re at a MUCH higher risk of freezing and all the illnesses resulting from overly cold temperatures.