HOW TO CREATE AN IDEAL BASE LAYER COMBO !

DEFINE THE CHOICES OF TEXTILES OF BASE LAYERS SYSTEM:
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO CREAT THE PERFECT COMBINAISON

Having the proper info is key to make good choices

Base layering is pretty popular due to its efficiency. Sports magazines present a whole variety of products and it is easy to lose ourselves in so many characteristics not applicable for everyone. And most of them are pricy. So let us help you demystify the different categories so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle.

Here’s all you need to know on the different base layer types and how to choose them.

You won’t be wearing the same clothes if you are attending snow festival or go on a mountain adventure. Are you moving a lot or are you standing still for hours?

It is important to select the proper type of fabric depending on the type of activity you are going to do.

Are you a warm person? Are you sweating a little, normal or a lot? These are the kind of questions you will need to ask yourself before shopping.

The textiles

Natural fibers

Wool

First, there is wool. We immediately think about the comfort and the warmth of this natural fiber.

Know that:

It can contain 35% of its weight in humidity and still feel dry to the touch.
It doesn’t get rid of humidity efficiently
It doesn’t stick on skin
It imprisons air, so it keeps you warm if it is cold and fresh if it is warm (even if humid).
It is soft to the touch and is feeling good directly on the skin.
It doesn’t retain smellsBut:
It can be irritating or itchy on delicate skin

But:

It can be irritating or itchy on delicate skin
It is fragile and need special care (pay attention not to deform or stretch the fibers
It is more expensive than synthetic fibers

It dries slower then synthetic fibers
Because it can become heavy when humid, its is harsh on delicate skin when you move. But it is ideal if you are more static in your activities.

Cotton

The cotton is an unexpensive natural fiber that can be used in your everyday life.

It is soft, comfortable and pleasant
It retains heat
It is hypoallergenic
It is easy to care

But:

It doesn’t breathe
When wet or humid it doesn’t retain warmth
It loses its shape easily
It deteriorates faster

Cotton is ideal for indoor clothing, relaxed and cozy. It is perfect for camping and travelling because of its care, but it is not indicated in the cold climate. So, keep it for your movie nights by the fire!

Synthetic fibers

Synthetic Fibers

It exists mixed fibers composed of polyester and polypropylene.

They evacuate humidity fast
They dry quickly
They are easy care

But:

They retain smells (choose one with anti microbial treatment)

These fibers are perfect for activities that demand a great physical effort or for those who sweat a lot or easily.

Make the better choice

How to choose?

Before you choose your base layer keep in mind that the ideal is to select only one type of fiber and stick to it. Do not mix and match the fiber types or their efficiency will considerably drop.
Determine what’s good for you. Take the time to think about the type of activities you will do and make sure the fibers will work accordingly to:

The breathability
The warmth retains
The humidity evacuation
The speed of drying
Skin reaction to fibers
Retention of smells
The care of the product
The weight of the cloth
The durability
The nature of the fiber (natural / synthetic)

Do not hesitate to ask professional for their help and make your research before you buy.

The perfect combination

The base layer

Whether you choose natural or synthetic fibers make sure you will keep your warmth and not get humid. At Alizée, the half-zip Power Stretch beat the records. It’s one of the most performant products on the market. It is made of synthetic fibers of high quality.

The second layer

The second layer, if necessary, should be an air pocket around your body to keep you warm as a blanket. The secret to the heat is the air. So, if your layer is too tight, it will keep air out and cold in.
The Power Stretch vest is the best combo to keep you warm. It keeps you warm and prevent humidity to stay close to your body. It will allow to keep you active without sweating too much.

More informations about Powerstretch

The jacket

Natures of your layers should be repeated in the fibers of your last layer; the jacket. If all your other layers are in natural fibers, you should choose a natural fiber for the insulation of the jacket (down, milkweed, wool, etc).
All Alizée’s jacket are synthetic insulated. Which makes the best match with the Power Stretch series. Our variety is wide: long, short, warm or lightweight, men, women, hood or no hood, fake fur or not, without forgetting regular or oversize sizing, you will surely find the right one for you!
Our urban, stylish, ecofriendly and recycled made jackets will be the best companion in all your activities. For the Quebec winter’s you need Quebec designed clothing. Discover our collection and find the jacket that will suit all your needs!

Do not go down on accessories!

Dress up to fight cold is a science and the good clothes will make all the difference in the experience. Proper accessories will do the rest. A good pair of socks, good quality boot will be the perfect base to your comfort. It will also keep you warm. Mittens, toques, gloves, neck-warmer, scarves and other items of this genre will keep your extremities from being cold. So, take your time to dress-up properly to insure the maximum comfort.

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Have a good Alizée winter!