12 Wool-Free Base Layers to Keep Cozy Without Cruelty

Posted by Calvin on November 19, 2024

Wearing base layers underneath your clothes can help keep you warm as the temps drop, but be alert—these are some of the most common items wool is used for. The wool industry kicks, punches, and mutilates sensitive sheep and sends them to slaughter when they’re no longer seen as “productive.” 😰 Make sure you don’t support this industry by always checking the labels on base layers. Avoid anything made with wool and opt for items made with vegan materials instead, like these wool-free base layers:

1. Stoic Lightweight Poly Crew Baselayer – Women’s

The stretchy synthetic material on Stoic’s baselayer manages moisture so you can stay dry during your winter adventures. Plus, the anti-odor treatment will def come in handy if those adventures are social events. 😅

2. REI Co-op Lightweight Base Layer Long-Sleeve Crew Top – Women’s

This top is great for skiing, hiking, or just enjoying the outdoors. Get it in vibrant colors like Apex Blue or Cosmic Magenta Heather.

3. L.L.Bean Men’s Lightweight Base Layer Pants

L.L.Bean’s base layer pants are ideal for transitional weather activities like hiking or camping. They’re made with super-breathable polyester, which gives them the stretch they need to move easily.

4. Under Armour Women’s ColdGear® Crew

Wanna stay active in the cold weather while also staying sweat-free? Grab this crew—the material wicks sweat, so you don’t get drenched. 👏

5. Columbia Women’s Omni-Heat™ Midweight Baselayer Tights

Here’s proof that wool is never needed to make warm clothing: These compression tights have a synthetic thermal-reflective lining that retains body heat.

6. 32 Degrees Men’s Lightweight Baselayer Crew Top

The Crew and Mock versions of this top and the matching leggings are made with a blend of vegan materials. They all provide a four-way stretch, so motion is never limited.

7. Mountain Warehouse Thermal Mens Base Layer Top

If you’re a skier, snowboarder, skater, or other winter athlete, you gotta get this base layer top. Densely packed polyester fibers retain warmth without adding bulk, so you can still be speedy and agile. ⛷️

8. Rocky Thermal Underwear for Men

This thermal underwear will stay put no matter how heavy your outer layers are. It’s made from vegan materials like spandex-based fabric, so no sheep have to suffer for your comfort.

9. REI Co-op Lightweight Base Layer Long-Sleeve Crew Top – Men’s

This base layer is kinda magical—the snag-resistant polyester blend keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, it also offers UPF 50+ sun protection.

10. 32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Baselayer Legging

Vegan, anti-odor, moisture-wicking base layers for under $10? It might seem too good to be true, but these leggings from 32 Degrees are 100% real. 

11. Land’s End Women’s Baselayer Cozy Thermaskin Pants

Whether going for a walk, running errands, or feeling chilly at home, these cozy base layer pants have you covered. The fabric generates heat by absorbing body moisture, just like wool—but unlike wool, it isn’t stolen from sheep who are punched, kicked, and mutilated. 🐑

12. Dick’s Sporting Goods Duofold Women’s Baselayer Thermal Pants

These soft, pretty pants trap air to block out the cold. The elastic waistband has a chafe-free fit, allowing you to exercise easily.

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Check out these stylish wool-free sweaters for more proof that we can get cozy drip without harming animals.