This section provides an overview for base layers as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 3 base layer manufacturers and their company rankings.
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A Base Layer refers to outdoor underwear worn directly against the skin.
Also known as the First Layer, it is the first layer of clothing worn and is designed to quickly absorb sweat, separate moisture from the body, and expel humidity. Its quick-drying nature helps prevent chilling, and by keeping the skin dry, it aids in maintaining body temperature.
The predominant materials for Base Layers are synthetic fibers, although natural Merino wool, a type of wool with antimicrobial properties that resist odor, is also utilized. Merino wool is resistant to bacterial growth, keeping unpleasant odors at bay, and offers added moisture retention benefits when used in winter. When searching for Base Layers, options are often more abundant in mountaineering-oriented products rather than marine-specific ones.
Base Layers are particularly useful in marine outdoor activities such as diving and sea kayaking. In diving, where wetsuits are worn, avoiding cooling due to sweat is essential.
Products made from natural materials like cotton or rayon, with high water absorption and retention properties, should be avoided. Instead, products made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, which dry quickly, are more suitable. For frequent divers, Base Layers specifically designed for diving, such as those for scuba diving, are preferable.
During winter sea kayaking, layering with Base Layer, mid-layer, and outerwear (shell layer) is crucial for warmth. Base Layers made from natural Merino wool are well-suited for this purpose.
Because it doesn't rob body heat even when wet, the buttocks don't feel excessively cold. When engaging in outdoor activities during winter, Base Layers are indispensable.
The materials for Base Layers are primarily classified into three categories: synthetic fibers, wool, and hybrid, a blend of synthetic fibers and wool.
Excellent in moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, synthetic fibers are resistant to abrasion. However, they can feel cold when wet with sweat, and unpleasant odors may develop after prolonged use.
Wool has a natural deodorizing effect, making it resistant to unpleasant odors. It doesn't feel as cold when wet with sweat and provides high insulation. However, it has inferior abrasion resistance and drying speed compared to synthetic fibers.
Hybrid materials combine the characteristics of synthetic fibers and wool. However, compared to 100% synthetic or 100% wool, they may have inferior properties such as abrasion resistance, moisture-wicking, and deodorizing effects. Synthetic fibers are suitable for heavy sweating, while wool is preferable for those sensitive to the cold.
The neck structure of Base Layers comes in two types: zip neck and round neck. The fabric thickness of underwear can be selected, with options like lightweight and mid-weight.
The zip neck prevents sunburn around the neck and allows temperature regulation by opening and closing the zipper. Its technical appearance makes it unsuitable for town use.
Round neck is common in casual wear and doesn't look out of place in urban settings. It lacks temperature regulation capability, and a large area around the neck is exposed to UV rays.
Lightweight fabrics are thin and dry quickly when wet with sweat. They remain cool during activities and have excellent quick-drying properties. However, they offer lower insulation, making them suitable for summer.
Mid-weight fabrics are thicker, providing moderate insulation. Intense physical activity in summer may cause overheating, making them more suitable for spring or fall.
The silhouette of a Base Layer can be categorized into underwear and shirts. In comparison to snug-fitting underwear, shirts are more relaxed.
Conforming closely to the skin, underwear quickly absorbs sweat. However, it may not be suitable for standalone activities when worn alone.
Concealing the body's lines, shirts are easy to wear as a single layer. Due to the fabric being away from the skin, they have lower water absorption compared to underwear.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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Yiwu Towinall Garments Co., Ltd, headquartered in Yiwu, Zhejiang, is a BSCI-certified manufacturer of seamless performance clothing, founded in 2012. The company offers sportswear, including sports bras, workout leggings, and base layers. It provides several services, such as custom printing, sample making, and yarn selection. The company also offers quality control services, including in-process inspection and inspecting finished products before delivery. It provides customization options for wears and also offers free revisions of design specifications within 5-10 days.
Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
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China | 1 | 100.0% |