Long-sleeved running shirts are underrated. Finding a good one鈥攕oft, wicking, breathable, comfortable鈥攃an be the difference between looking forward to a winter run and dreading it. The best kinds of long-sleeved shirts can be worn on their own in mild temps and shoulder seasons, and they serve as the final line of defense against bitter cold when worn underneath protective layers. We tested a host of this season鈥檚 women’s long-sleeved tops. Here are the ones we reached for the most.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Best Value:
• Best for Cold/Damp Conditions:
• Best for Beginners:
• Most Versatile:
• Other Long-Sleeved Running Shirts We Tested
• Best Women’s Running Jackets
• How to Choose Long-Sleeved Running Shirts
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

Janji Rover Merino Hoodie

Material: 37% 17.5渭 merino wool, 55% nylon, 8% spandex
Fit: Relaxed

Pros and Cons
鈯� Excellent warmth and breathability on its own or layered
鈯� Scuba hood provides added protection
鈯� $128 is a lot for a shirt

If you buy one running shirt this winter, this top is worth the splurge. Testers said the soft, brushed interior blend of merino wool, nylon, and spandex felt great against the skin and moved moisture to the smooth exterior surface. Extended sleeves and thumbholes kept our hands warm, especially when tucked into gloves (that gap between sleeve ends and gloves or mitts was eliminated). The scuba-fit hood provided extra warmth and protection for the neck and head when pulled up and was lightweight enough not to flop around annoyingly when not in use.

We appreciated thoughtful details like a small interior pocket at the bottom seam with a bungee to attach a key ring, and a ponytail port on the hood. Bonus: The subtle branding, relaxed fit, and overall style also made this a great crossover top for other winter sports or even around-town wear. Another bonus: This shirt, and all Janji apparel, is backed by a 5-year warranty.

Best Value

Oiselle Altitude Longsleeve

Material: 78% nylon, 22% spandex blend
Fit: Slightly relaxed, boxy

Pros and Cons
鈯� Seamless comfort
鈯� Can be worn across seasons
鈯� Boxy, slightly shorter cut let chill creep in when not tucked in

This is a comfortable, flattering shirt that can be worn on its own in mild temps (or during spring and fall, hence the value), or as a first layer in the cold. We love the bird graphics and the word 鈥渇ly鈥� knitted into the fabric. The nylon/spandex blend was soft against the skin and did a good job wicking sweat. Testers prone to chafing appreciated the lack of seams along the body of this shirt鈥攖he only stitching is on the shoulders/arms. The thin fabric proved comfortable layered under a jacket or midlayer, although the boxy fit works best with looser-fitting layers over it. Thumbholes and extended sleeves added warm wrist protection from winter chill.

Best for Cold and Damp Conditions

Tracksmith Fells Waffle Layer

Material: 54% Merino wool, 46% recycled polyester
Fit: Slightly relaxed

Pros and Cons
鈯� Regulates body temperature in cold conditions
鈯� Great sweat-wicking performance
鈯� Too warm for mild days

When it was so cold and wet outside that we just wanted to pull on a sweatshirt and curl up on the couch, we reached for this top and laced up our shoes. The shirt鈥檚 Merino wool and polyester blend wicked beautifully, whether worn on its own in temps in the teens to 30s, as a warm-up layer over a tank top in mild conditions, or underneath an outer layer in the most wintry of winter days. The waffle knit construction proved both insulating and breathable.

The overall vibe of this top is East Coast cross country/British fell running鈥攁nd we found that it inspired us to charge up snowy hills like those hardy racers. Testers appreciated the no-scratch, no-irritation feel. One called it an 鈥渦ncomplicated performer of warmth.鈥� We also loved how this top doubles as a good-looking layer for casual wear, and we have worn it traveling and out to nice dinners.

Best for Beginners

Nike Swift Element

Material: Nike Dri-FIT: 88% polyester,12% spandex, with UVA and UVB sun protection
Fit: Relaxed

Pros and Cons
鈯� Works well layering over a tank, tee, or sports bra, or under a vest or jacket
鈯� Thumbholes and watch window help keep hands protected
鈯� When unzipped, collar can feel floppy

We like that the somewhat loose fit of this top makes it easy to throw on over a tank or short-sleeve shirt and also makes it beginner-friendly by accommodating a range of body types. The Nike Dri-FIT fabric, a polyester/spandex blend that wicks sweat, is nicely stretchy and super soft. The quarter-zip provided partial neck coverage to protect from cold, and allowed us to open up for ventilation when temps rose.

Testers loved this shirt鈥檚 extra features: handy thumbholes, a small zippered pocket on the left hip that one tester said was 鈥渋deal for a lightweight hotel-room key,鈥� and watch holes on both sleeves. One tester raved that being able to check her watch without pulling the sleeves up was 鈥渁wesome because when I pull back my sleeve, I bump my apple watch and it stops the tracking of the workout without me realizing it. [The watch window] leaves the button undisturbed.鈥�

Most Versatile

Paka Everyday Baselayer

Material: 85% Tencel, 15% Royal Alpaca
Fit: Form-fitting

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely soft
鈯� Can be worn for other winter sports, or casually
鈯� Shows sweat

This is one ridiculously soft shirt; the Tencel/Alpaca wool blend feels fantastic against the skin. We found ourselves wearing this for running in cold temperatures and as a casual layer at summer mountain concerts. When running, we liked how the fit was trim without being constricting, allowing full, unencumbered mobility. Of all the shirts in this roundup, this one provides the most warmth for the weight. It鈥檚 thin, making it easy to wear under other layers. But it鈥檚 also warm and temperature-regulating on its own.

鈥淢y initial impression was love at first sight,鈥� said a tester who appreciated the responsible packaging, Peruvian logo, and great fit and feel. One beef: The shirt loses a little of its initial shape after washing, and the stitching at the sleeve endings and hem doesn鈥檛 have any give to it, though the fabric has plenty. Notable: Paka teaches single mothers in Peru how to stitch.

Other Women’s Long-Sleeved Running Shirts We Tested

• . This is a great wool layer for winter running, but the $124 Janji hoodie beat it out on price.
• . A high-performing, thin wool crewneck that fit too snug for most.
• . Made from recycled materials, this top breathes remarkably well. The fit is very baggy, and the graphics large. Seems more of a shoulder-season piece.
• . This is more shirt than jacket, which is why we tested it in this category. Testers didn鈥檛 feel it held up great to washings, and didn鈥檛 love the chest pocket for running.
• . Performs well in cold by wicking sweat and regulating temperature. While this topped our list as an all-around winter piece, we found the Janji hoodie better suited to running.
• . A soft, thin, and breathable wool blend layer, though some thought the arms and torso were cut shorter than we鈥檇 like.
• . A great wicking piece made from 100% recycled polyester. Some testers thought it could be softer.
• Arc鈥橳eryx Modus AR Hoodie ($N/A). We liked this sweat-wicking hoodie, but it was discontinued from the Arc鈥橳eryx line.

How to Choose Women’s Long-Sleeved Running Shirts

Consider your needs: Are you looking for a baselayer type of fit and function, where next-to-skin comfort and wicking is paramount and a slim fit allows easy layering? Or, are you in the market for a shirt you can pull over a tank or short sleeve or even a slim-fit second shirt to act as a midlayer at times and work on its own when needed? From there, think about what added features matter, like thumb holes, hoods, watch windows, or zippered necks, and what materials you prefer against your skin, whether a synthetic fabric or a natural fiber blend. When possible, head into a specialty retail shop to try on running tops. The one that fits you well, suits your temperature and feature needs, and makes you excited to go running through winter is your winner.

How We Test

Head tester and writer Lisa Jhung researches each gear category and works with gear companies to narrow down which items to add to the test loop. She then orders samples for herself and her team of five testers, who live in Colorado, Virginia, and the San Francisco Bay Area. For this test, women’s long-sleeved running shirts were worn in a range of winter conditions, from cold, dry, sometimes snowy Colorado Front Range and high country, to cold, damp Virginia and cool, rainy, mild Northern California.

Meet Our Testers

Lisa Jhung has been running for 35 years, testing and writing about gear for 25-ish years, and manages a pool of testers out of her home in Boulder, Colorado. She runs in all conditions and loves heading out in a gnarly snowstorm.

Kristen Mecca moved to Virginia after running all over Colorado, including multiple podium finishes at the Pikes Peak Ascent and snowshoe races. She now tests gear through the East Coast winter and is a stickler for irritating seams and rough materials.

Beth Smith lives and runs in Burlingame, California, and runs roads and trails while trying to not get Prednisone-level poison oak rashes. She loves functional clothing with smart pocketing for her phone, which she always has with her.

Lindsay Clark trains around the roads and trails of Louisville, Colorado, while also heading to the Boulder foothills to hit rugged, rocky trails. After tragically losing her home in the Marshall Fire, she says she appreciates good running apparel on a new level.

The post Next-to-Skin Comfort in the Cold: The Best Women鈥檚 Long-Sleeved Running Shirts appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Winter can be challenging for runners. It can pressure you to stay inside and ruin your routine. Or it can be an opportunity to flex mental toughness and build physical strength by heading out in all sorts of weather. We choose the latter. Running in cold, rain, wind, or snow (or all of the above) can be downright fun鈥攊f you鈥檙e wearing the right gear. We tested a range of jackets meant to embrace winter, and these five came out on top.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Best Value:
• Best for Mild Climates:
• Best for Snow and Cold:
• Best for Trails and Travel:
• Other Products We Tested
• How to Choose a Winter Running Jacket
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket

Materials: 3-layer proprietary ProFlex recycled polyester with polyurethane coating
Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Both waterproof and breathable in the ideal ratio for runners
鈯� Adjustable hood
鈯� No insulation (but rarely needed when running)

Anyone who plans on running outside all winter needs a waterproof, breathable jacket. This one from Rab withstood our testing in Colorado sleet, snow, and rain, easily shedding all three. While the 3-layer membrane is obviously less breathable than a permeable fleece, it is far more protective from moisture, and we didn鈥檛 overheat or become clammy. (Thank God: Sweat freezes if it can鈥檛 escape.) We also loved this jacket鈥檚 stretchiness, which allowed for full mobility and didn鈥檛 pull uncomfortably around our arms or shoulders. And we appreciated the attention to detail even in the small things, like the hood鈥檚 slight visor that added protection from the elements.

Best Value

Saucony Hurricane Insulated Jacket

Materials: 100% recycled polyester insulation, recycled polyester fleece panels
Sizing: XXS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Can be worn casually as well as during high-intensity running
鈯� Multiple pockets add functionality
鈯� Easy care: machine wash low, gentle dry cycle
鈯� Cut is a little short for some
鈯� Hood could fit more securely and is a bit noisy

While $200 might not sound like a bargain, this jacket is versatile enough to get your money鈥檚 worth. To start, the hood is removable, so you can wear the jacket in a range of weather conditions. We found this jacket also good-looking enough to wear around town as a cute outer layer. The zippered hand warmer pockets add functionality on that end.

For running, fleece paneling on the sides and lower back allows full breathability while wicking sweat, and the lightly insulated chest and upper back provide warmth and shed light snow. 鈥淚 love this jacket,鈥� gushed a tester. 鈥淚 love the fit, the look, the material, how easy and well it washes, the fact that it has a hood, the soft and stretchy sleeve cuffs, and the pockets.鈥�

Best for Mild Climates

Nathan Sports HyperNight Stealth Jacket

Materials: Proprietary 2-way stretch UltraAire (100% nylon) with DWR finish
Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Very breathable
鈯� Reflective detailing adds safety
鈯� Packs into its own pocket
鈯� Not waterproof

We love the feel of this jacket against our skin. Its lightweight, soft, wind-resistant material breathes like a champ, while a DWR coating protects from light wind and snow. 鈥淭he material did not make me overheat, even during more intense runs,鈥� says our Bay Area tester. The ventilated back panel, as well as the material itself, does a good job of letting heat escape. The jacket features two-way stretch for mobility and makes minimal noise on the run鈥攖here鈥檚 no annoying swoosh-swoosh or crinkling sound with every arm swing. The subtle camouflage print on the front torso and upper back becomes brightly reflective under illumination, such as headlights at dawn or dusk.

Best for Snow and Cold

Cotopaxi Capa Hybrid Insulated Hooded Jacket

Materials: Shell: 100% 20D ripstop nylon with PFC-free DWR finish, Liner: 97% polyester/3%spandex, Insulation: Recycled synthetic Primaloft Gold P.U.R.E.
Sizing: XXS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Hood fits well and stays put
鈯� Can be worn casually
鈯� Lifetime warranty and repairs
鈯� Not waterproof
鈯� Can feel damp in humid climates or for heavy sweaters

With lightly insulated, DWR-coated paneling around the torso that both warms and blocks wind, and waffle fleece on the shoulders, hood, and arms, the Capa Hybrid Jacket offers a combination of warmth, protection, and breathability鈥攊n the right conditions. We love it for cold, dry runs, outings with lightly falling snow, or during a crushing wind. The insulated panel can, however, feel warm during hard efforts in all-but-frigid temps.

Our East Coast-based tester preferred this jacket during vacation runs in the dry conditions of Joshua Tree over the humidity back home in Virginia, where she felt it made her 鈥渢oo sweaty.鈥� Our testers in the Colorado Rockies and foothills praised the piece for protecting them during cold, snowy runs. The hood and thumbholes add coziness, and two zippered hand-warmer pockets help the jacket transition to casualwear. Bonus: We found the zippers easy to use even while wearing mittens.

Best for Trails and Travel

On Running Ultra Jacket

Materials: Shell: 100% polyamide, Pocket mesh: 82% polyamide, 18% elastane
Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Can fit over a hydration pack
鈯� Very lightweight for a waterproof jacket
鈯� Loose fit can feel sloppy to some

Some may deem the relaxed fit of this jacket a negative, but we found it valuable. One Colorado tester noted how easily the jacket pulls over a running pack鈥攖he jacket even has two pleats sewn into the backside for this purpose鈥攊n a deluge or when she needed protection in a pinch from a cold wind on the ridge of an alpine trail. And since the jacket packs down tiny and weighs close to nothing (4 ounces), we see no reason not to shove it in a trail-running pack to have on hand in shifty weather.

The almost-oversized fit of this jacket joins its monochromatic styling to make it, dare we say, urban cool. And the 2.5-layer waterproof polyamide material wards off rain admirably; one tester stayed comfortable standing in a downpour to watch a race after finishing her own. Reflective logos and detailing add safety for city running, but its ability to pack down small and go with everything make it truly shine as a trail or travel jacket.

Other Products We Tested

• Smartwool Active Fleece Zip-up ($180) or Pullover ($160). Soft and comfortable, but a bit thick and permeable for all but the coldest, driest winter conditions. Great for around-town wear.
• Patagonia Wind Shield Jacket ($199). Blocks wind, but we craved more shape than the boxy fit, and the neck could be higher when zipped for more protection.
• Patagonia Houdini Jacket ($109). This is a great layer and has been for years. We went with the Nathan Sports HyperNight Stealth Jacket as our water-resistant pick because of its soft material and reflectivity.
• The North Face Summit Series Superior FUTURELITE Jacket ($300). This is a solid lightweight waterproof piece. The material is a tad stiff.
• The North Face Winter Warm Pro Jacket ($150). A warm hybrid jacket that we felt wasn鈥檛 as breathable as the Cotopaxi Capa Hybrid or Saucony Hurricane Insulated.
• Ciele VLV Insulator ($340). The stylish, short cut didn鈥檛 provide enough protection for us.
• Saucony Hurricane Waterproof Jacket ($200). Great at blocking wind. Zipper and hood tested slightly uncomfortable when unzipped.
• Gore-Tex Concurve Running Jacket ($250). This shell is a fully protective jacket with nicely stretchy cuffs, but we found the material a bit noisy.
• Salomon Sense Aero Hybrid Cropped ($110). A breathable layer for high-output pursuits, but despite the cinching waist, the crop left us too exposed.
• Stio Exploit Jacket ($240). This fully waterproof jacket is comfortable and works great in mountain environments. The off-center zipper makes it awkward to wear casually.
• Montane Minimus Lite Waterproof Jacket ($235). Love the fit, feel, and weight (light!) of this jacket. Not as breathable as other waterproof picks in round-up.

How to Choose a Winter Running Jacket

Choosing a winter running jacket is primarily about the kinds of winter conditions you face where you live, travel, and run. Consider if you need a waterproof layer, or can get by with water resistance鈥攚aterproof jackets are more costly, don鈥檛 breathe quite as well, and tend to be somewhat stiffer and noisier, but are worth it when you鈥檙e out in a downpour or blizzard.

Then think about if you want your running jacket to be insulated and provide warmth on its own, or work as a thin, exterior shell. Insulated jackets can make heading out in frigid temps less daunting, especially if you tend to run cold, but can get hot during high-intensity exercise or if the temps rise. Shell jackets allow you to layer underneath to adjust for a range of conditions. Also consider if you want a fitted jacket that stays close to the body for streamlined mobility, or a looser fit that affords flexibility with layering underneath.

How We Test

Head tester and writer Lisa Jhung researches each gear category and works with gear companies to narrow down which jackets to get into the test loop. She then orders samples for herself and her team of testers, who live in Boulder and Louisville, Colorado, Virginia, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Jackets are worn in a range of winter conditions, from cold, dry, sometimes snowy, occasionally rainy/sleeting Colorado Front Range road and high country trails, to cold, damp Virginia roads and rail trails, to cool, rainy, mild Northern California roads and trails.

Meet Our Testers

Lisa Jhung has been running for 35 years, testing and writing about gear for 25-ish years, and manages a pool of testers out of her home in Boulder, Colorado. She runs in all conditions and loves heading out in a gnarly snowstorm.

Kristen Mecca moved to Virginia after running all over Colorado, including multiple podium finishes at the Pikes Peak Ascent and snowshoe races. She now tests gear through the East Coast winter and is a stickler for irritating seams and rough materials.

Beth Smith lives and runs in Burlingame, California, and runs roads and trails while trying to not get Prednisone-level poison oak rashes. She loves functional clothing with smart pocketing for her phone, which she always has with her.

Lindsay Clark trains around the roads and trails of Louisville, Colorado, while also heading to the Boulder foothills to hit rugged, rocky trails. After tragically losing her home in the Marshall Fire, she says she appreciates good running apparel on a new level.

The post The Best Women鈥檚 Winter Running Jackets (2025) appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Humans feel comfortable in a shockingly narrow temperature range鈥攚hich is what makes a terrific midlayer so valuable for cool- and cold-weather outings. As the mercury dips into the 50s, 30s, or (gasp!) below zero, insulated jackets let us achieve our preferred climate conditions while we venture beyond the HVAC-controlled indoors. One could even say that a midlayer is the most important single piece of gear for outdoor sports through fall, winter, and spring.

Except that when it comes to materials and construction, midlayers can vary as widely as the weather you鈥檙e seeking protection from. In other words, choose wisely based on your activity level, region, and material preference, among other things. After testing close to 50 women’s insulated midlayers, we recommend these six standouts.

At a Glance

• Editor鈥檚 Choice:
• Best Ultralight:
• Best Emergency Warmth:
• Best Stretch:
• Best Wind Protection:
• Best Sport/Casual Crossover:
• Best Fleece Midlayers
• How To Choose an Insulated Midlayer
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Editor鈥檚 Choice

Mountain Equipment Oreus

Sizes: XS-XL
Weight: 12 oz.
Warmth: 8/10
Breathability: 8/10
Durability: 9/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Very warm
鈯� Excellent breathability
鈯� Compresses to a small size
鈯� Expensive

If I could custom design a midlayer, this would be it. I loved the Oreus for ski touring and winter hiking, finding it breathable enough to wear at the resort beneath a shell during pow laps at Steamboat. Checking boxes for warmth, ventilation, compressibility, and durability, the Oreus is made from 100 percent recycled polyester insulation fibers interlocked with a reflective material that traps body heat鈥攍ike a space blanket, but more breathable thanks to air pockets between the insulation fibers. That鈥檚 topped with a 10-denier, 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric treated with a fluorocarbon-free DWR, which repelled snow flurries during testing and prevented clamminess when worn during and after high-exertion ski-touring climbs. Silky and quiet, the fabric also proved durable enough to resist snags or rips over four months of steady wear while ski mountaineering. Cozy enough to serve as an emergency layer in all but the coldest conditions, the Oreus ably handled temps ranging from 5 degrees Fahrenheit to up to 35 degrees鈥攊n other words, most winter conditions.

The jacket squishes to basketball-size when packed, and abundant pockets hold climbing skins (in the interior drop pouch) and other essentials (in three zippered outer pockets). Testers even gave the hood rave reviews for its three-way adjustability and warmth. At $450, this layer costs more than many insulated ski jackets and shells, but its performance won鈥檛 disappoint.

Best Ultralight Layer

Black Diamond Deploy Down Hoody

Sizes: XS-XL
Weight: 4.8 oz.
Warmth: 8/10
Breathability: 7/10
Durability: 7/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Light but warm
鈯� Packs small
鈯� So-so breathability
鈯� Fragile shell fabric

Behold the mighty warming power of 1,000-fill down. Made with a hood鈥攂ut without a full-length zipper鈥攖his pullover claims to be the world鈥檚 lightest down hoody. We believe it: The combination of high-loft insulation and tissue-thin, four-denier ripstop nylon packs so small that I was able to stuff it into the water bottle pocket of my hip pack. Unfurled, it delivered impressive warmth when testers paused while cross-country skiing or hiking. 鈥淚t鈥檚 all the warmth I needed in 15 to 32-degree conditions,鈥� one tester reported. That said, everyone agreed that colder temperatures warranted a heavier-weight emergency layer. Because down insulation鈥檚 Kryptonite is moisture, the Deploy isn鈥檛 ideal as the only layer for resort skiing, uphilling, or other sweat-producing activities (a PFC-free DWR does protect the down from light flurries). Instead, it鈥檚 best as a topper during game delays: Pull it on during a scenic snack break and savor its low-bulk warmth.

Best Emergency Warmth

Women鈥檚 Jones Re-Up Down Recycled Hoodie

Sizes: XS-L
Weight: 14 oz.
Warmth: 9/10
Breathability: 7/10
Durability: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Ethically and sustainably made
鈯� Reliable warmth
鈯� Very durable
鈯� Sometimes too warm and not super waterproof

Here鈥檚 the piece that kept our California-based tester comfy through all conditions鈥攊ncluding a shockingly cold April ascent of 14,179-foot Mt. Shasta. 鈥淭his jacket was great in blizzard conditions, for wearing over layers on a multi-pitch ice climb, and when transitioning from skis to crampons and back again during mountaineering objectives,鈥� she reported. Plenty of responsibly sourced, upcycled 750-fill down fattens the baffles, sewn in certified ethical factories using 100 percent recycled, 20-denier ripstop nylon. That fabric proved its durability over a season by remaining tear-free despite getting shoved into packs with sharp tools and sparring with hamburger grease during apr猫s (鈥淚t did great in the wash,鈥� reported a tester). Water-repellent coatings on both the plumes and fabric keep the jacket lofty through light precipitation or modest perspiration, but this piece is no standout in breathability or rain resistance. Emergency warmth is its calling and its Achilles heel: It鈥檚 too warm to wear while moving or in mild conditions.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY REI
REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket – Women’s ($129)

Bundle up for chilly walks, crisp air and crunchy leaves in the REI Co-op women’s 650 Down jacket. This everyday jacket boasts recycled materials to help you feel good in more ways than one. Insulation is down and the weight of the jacket is 10.2 oz

Best Stretch

L茅 Bent Genepi Wool Insulated Hybrid Jacket

Sizes: XS-L
Weight: 14.8 oz.
Warmth: 7/10
Breathability: 9/10
Durability: 9/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Unconfining fit
鈯� Odor-resistant
鈯� Spiffy enough for town
鈯� Not very compressible

First, a warning: The Genepi will make every other jacket in your closet feel like a restraining device. 鈥淚 can鈥檛 believe how free my arms feel,鈥� reports one tester, who wore it for nordic ski workouts, hiking, and resort skiing (when she topped it with a ski shell). Its modified raglan sleeves extend the underarms鈥� heat-dumping stretch panels (made of a synthetic/rayon/Merino wool blend) around the shoulder blade area to reduce constriction when pole-planting. More of that highly breathable fabric extends across the lower back. The chest and center back have baffled insulation containing recycled polyester and wool (30 percent), which results in a comfort zone that spans an impressively broad range of temperatures, from eight degrees Fahrenheit (during high-exertion skating) to mild spring days at the resort. Equally versatile is its styling: Testers wore it around town and for road trips.

Best Wind Protection

Arc鈥橳eryx Proton Hybrid Hoody

Sizes: XXS-XXL
Weight: 10.9 oz.
Warmth: 6/10
Breathability: 10/10
Durability: 10/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Outstanding breathability
鈯� Buffers wind
鈯� Extended sizing
鈯� Not the warmest

A winter-weight wind shell, the Proton blocks knifelike gusts without trapping sweat. I was impressed with how regulated my temperature stayed in this jacket while ski-touring in 20-degree Fahrenheit conditions and skate-skiing at 12 degrees. Colder than that, and wearers reached for additional layers: Only this jacket鈥檚 chest panels are insulated, using a thin layer of 40-gram Coreloft polyester (recycled and Bluesign-approved). Windproof Gore-Tex Infinium fabric across the shoulders and hood shielded testers against storms, while the jacket鈥檚 back and arms used a proprietary air-permeable fabric. Its breathability is excellent, and that moisture control鈥攁long with the unfettered feel of four-way stretch fabric and articulated seams that allow the arms to move freely鈥攎ade the Proton Hybrid testers鈥� favorite midlayer for sweat-producing adventures. Three zippered pockets (two for hands and one on the chest) hold a phone and neck gaiter.

Best Sport/Casual Crossover

Strafe Women鈥檚 Highlands Shirt Jacket

Sizes: XS-XXL
Weight: 8.3 oz.
Warmth: 7/10
Breathability: 9/10
Durability: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great-feeling fabric
鈯� Breathable warmth
鈯� Functional pockets
鈯� Wind cuts through

With a banded collar, snap-front closure, and roomy hand pockets that invite slouchy lounging, this puffy became testers鈥� anytime pullover during road trips, shopping errands鈥攁nd yes, winter hikes and tours calling for technical insulation. Lightly insulated with synthetic PrimaLoft Active Evolve, it kept testers warm while moving in 22-degree Fahrenheit conditions, and the stretchy, air-permeable nylon face fabric virtually eliminates clamminess. 鈥淭his jacket actually feels better than it looks, which is saying something,鈥� noted one Colorado tester who praised the material鈥檚 unusually soft hand. 鈥淏alled up, it made the perfect airplane pillow,鈥� she added.

Its effectiveness at managing moisture made it perfect for backcountry climbs and resort downhills鈥攂ut donning a shell on top during the latter was imperative because wind penetrated the weave. Even the pockets proved useful during sport: Along with the two hand pockets and a snapped chest pouch, two interior drop pockets hold kicker skins or a spare pair of gloves.

How to Choose an Insulated Midlayer

Insulated midlayers come in as wide a range as the activities you鈥檒l use them for and the conditions you鈥檒l use them in. Their fabrics and insulation determine warmth, breathability, and weather protection. Synthetic-fill insulation, goose and duck down, hybrid designs that blend baffled panels with other fabrics; these fabrications and more all appear in the midlayers we tested last winter. Each has its benefits. But in general, a great midlayer should keep you warm鈥攂ut not so warm that you overheat and fill it with sweat. It should provide enough breathability for perspiration to move away from the body, and its protection against wind and water should be minimal (a waterproof shell worn over a midlayer does most of the weather-protection work).

Here are the questions to ask to decide will best serve your needs.

How Wet Will it Get?

Down-filled layers have the best warmth for the weight but can lose that advantage if the garment gets soaked from precipitation or an accidental dousing. If you expect especially wet conditions, a synthetic fiber (used in the ) or bio-based fiber fill (the ) will do better at keeping you warm when wet.

How Cold Will it Be?

The general rule of thumb is the thicker the layer, the warmer it is. That comes with tradeoffs like weight or size if you have limited space in your pack. If you know it鈥檚 going to be frigid, by all means, go for a thick puffy like the . But that piece could be a wasted layer if it proves too warm for the weather. Consider layering more than one piece, like the , to better handle changing temperature conditions.

How Much Weather Protection Do You Need?

If you plan to wear a wind-and waterproof shell over your midlayer, you won鈥檛 need to worry about the storm cutting right down to your base layers. If not, look for a piece that offers a light shell and/or a DWR chemical treatment for more wind and weather resistance, like the or the .

How Hard Are You Going to Hammer?

If you are planning to work up a sweat, look for a more breathable layer so you won鈥檛 trap too much moisture next to skin, which can turn into serious cold if you stop moving or encounter big winds. More porous fabrics used in the and jackets will allow that perspiration to move away from your body.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 10
• Number of products tested: 46
• Testers鈥� age range: 15-54
• States represented: 5 (California, Colorado, Wyoming, Minnesota, Maine)

Our testers don鈥檛 just spend a lot of time outdoors鈥攖hough they do qualify as obsessive skiers, mountaineers, ultrarunners, climbers, hikers, and view-admirers. They also possess the gift of gab. Our testers must be able to say much more about a piece of gear than 鈥渋t鈥檚 awesome鈥� or 鈥渋t sucks.鈥� They sweat details about鈥攚ell, sweat, and how apparel responds to their sweat or contributes to its production. They note what makes a jacket feel unconfining, how much wind protection it delivers, and whether it plays nice with a backpack.

For this test, we evaluated 46 of the most promising puffies and hybrid-style insulators on the market, including full-zip and pullover styles. We asked testers to consider the fit, the breathability, the warmth they enjoyed from each jacket, and its best application: Is the jacket best for ski-race spectation? Nordic skiing? Apr猫s at the resort? All of the above? Only the items that earned raves on performance and livability earned coverage among these reviews.

Meet Our Testers

Kelly Bastone moved to the Colorado Rockies in 1998 and has pursued outdoor sports ever since. A freelancer who writes about gear and other outdoor topics for publications such as Backpacker, AFAR, and The Red Bulletin, Bastone has contributed many gear reviews to 国产吃瓜黑料 over the years. An avid skier (resort, Nordic and backcountry), fly-fisher, mountain biker and mushroom forager, she gets the news she needs from the weather report.

The post The Best Insulated Midlayer Jackets for Women in 2025 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Fleece is the OG outdoor midlayer that continues to ace all manner of adventures鈥攆rom fall and winter hiking and mountain biking to skiing and snowshoeing. Its fluffy texture feels cozy and comforting in cool to cold weather. And its airy structure delivers both warmth and ventilation: The pile provides insulation while also moving perspiration and excess heat away from your body. Contrary to popular belief, fleece comes in all different weights to offer a wide range of options in warmth and performance. We put more than 20 fleece jackets to the test last winter to narrow it down to these five top performers.

At a Glance

• Editor鈥檚 Choice:
• Best for Frigid Temps:
• Most Versatile:
• Best Wind Protection:
• Best for High-Intensity Activity:
• Products to Avoid
• How to Choose a Fleece Jacket
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Tester

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Editors鈥� Choice

Artilect W-Halfmoon Bio Pullover

Sizes: XS-XL
Warmth: 6/10
Breathability: 7/10
Weather Protection: 5/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 shed microplastics
鈯� Ideal balance of warmth, ventilation and protection
鈯� Casual style
鈯� Pocket zippers can rub beneath backpack hipbelts

Here鈥檚 a do-it-all fleece for virtually every outing, year-round. Testers described the fabric thickness as a 鈥渓ight-midweight鈥� and said it delivered Goldilocks warmth and proved 鈥渏ust right鈥� for a huge range of pursuits. Over the testing season, we wore it under a shell when downhill skiing, over a T-shirt on summer peakbagging missions, at the climbing gym before a workout, and on its own around an evening campfire. Its moderate warmth and breathability make it ideal for mid-pace, stop-and-go activities (interval sprinters should consider the LaSportiva or Helly Hansen options below).

Testers also loved its sustainable construction. Made of 100-percent recycled content, the jacket鈥檚 Primaloft BIO fleece biodegrades in oceans and landfills. So, unlike other synthetic fabrics that shed plastic microparticles, this one doesn鈥檛 pollute the environment. The extra-long chest half-zipper let wearers dump heat on sunny resort afternoons or after hard-charging powder runs in Steamboat, Colo., and two zippered side pockets secured a phone or warm up chilly fingers. Most testers comfortably buckled a backpack over the streamlined kangaroo pouch, but some mentioned that the bulky side pocket zippers could rub beneath the straps.

Best For Frigid Temps

Ridge Merino Women鈥檚 Ediza Fleece Merino Jacket

Sizes: XS-XL
Warmth: 10/10
Breathability: 5/10
Weather Protection: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Wind- and abrasion-resistant
鈯� Odor-resistant
鈯� Warmth without bulk
鈯� Runs long

Our always-cold tester found her bliss wearing this merino-based fleece, which combines a high-pile, brushed-wool interior with a lightweight nylon exterior that turned this unassuming piece into an all-weather jacket. Neither snow nor light precipitation soaked through the jacket thanks to the light nylon face fabric, which allowed testers to wear this instead of a waterproof shell in all but the stormiest conditions. The fabric showed no pilling or snags after months of wear beneath a backpack. And its warmth is tops: One wearer stayed comfortable in just a base layer beneath the Ediza while trail-running and cross-country skiing in 15-degree F conditions during a Steamboat, Colo., winter. It also won props for under-shell insulation on cold resort days. Ample warmth and merely moderate breathability makes it best for stop-and-go sports, winter camping, or people who run cold.

The Polartec Power Wool fabric鈥檚 four-way stretch feels unconfining, and testers reported that the two zippered hand pockets feel comfortable beneath a pack鈥檚 hip belt. Cut long through the chest and sleeves, the Ediza allowed even ape-armed testers to access the cuffs鈥� thumb holes, and the generous neck opening accommodates a gaiter. If you鈥檙e on the shorter side, though, be warned: the longer, slimmer silhouette might not be ideal for all body shapes.

Most Versatile

Alpine Revival W Granite Crew

Sizes: S-L
Warmth: 8/10
Breathability: 7/10
Weather Protection: 5/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Ultrasoft
鈯� Retro aesthetic
鈯� Low-bulk warmth performs on and off-piste
鈯� Expensive

Skiing鈥檚 original midlayer was a crewneck sweater, and this one pairs old-school aesthetics with modern technical performance: One strand of Lycra woven throughout contributes durability and stretch to the 100 percent cashmere fabric, delivering warmth without bulk. Testers reported that the midweight knit kept them cozy on 25-degree F days when sandwiched between a base layer and shell (or sans shell when hiking in calm, dry weather).

鈥淣o odor accumulated over weeks of wear, making this an easy-care option for travel,鈥� reports our lead tester, who wore it daily in Steamboat and during a weeklong tour among h眉ttes in Austria. Testers appreciated the simple, sleek look, completely uncluttered by pockets or zippers. While they did note that the cashmere began to show signs of wear beneath abrasive backpack straps, testers felt that the Granite Crew鈥檚 breathability proved adequate enough to qualify as a technical layer, albeit a pricey one.

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Varley Women’s Rhea 2.0 1/2 Zip Sweatshirt ($148)

Your new favorite sweatshirt is here. Perfect for wearing over leggings or pants, the Rhea 2.0 features a sleek, two-tone look that you鈥檒l want to wear every day. Designed with a high collar, drop shoulders, and signature panelled detailing, this longline pullover is cut for a relaxed, elegant fit. Ribbed Ottoman fabric ensures you stay cozy as the weather changes. You just might never take it off.

Best Wind Protection

Dynafit Tigard Alpha Direct Jacket

Sizes: XS-XL
Warmth: 7/10
Breathability: 8/10
Weather Protection: 9/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Very stretchy
鈯� Breathable yet wind-buffering
鈯� Efficient use of different fabrics
鈯� Sporty looks limit around-town use

Over the course of a frigid season in Gunnison, Colo., the Tigard became a constant companion for our ski-touring tester, who wore it in 15- to 30-degree F temperatures and only topped it with a shell for descents. 鈥淭he breathability is impressive,鈥� she said, 鈥渂ut it also blocks wind, which I appreciated when skinning up exposed ridgelines.鈥�

That balancing act comes courtesy of a hybrid construction: the jacket tops breathable Polartec Alpha Direct鈥攁 lightweight, temperature-regulating synthetic insulation鈥攚ith ultralight stretch nylon that鈥檚 coated in a PFC-free DWR. The coating shed light precipitation鈥攁 feature we were grateful for while hiking up Aspen鈥檚 Highland Bowl during flurries. The sides and underarms feature a gridded, woven fleece that鈥檚 also heat-dumping and stretchy. 鈥淚 love the freedom of movement I feel,鈥� gushed our tester. Three zippered pockets (one chest, two for hands) fit a smartphone and snacks, and the head-hugging hood seals in warmth and blocks wind better than most toques.

Best for High-Intensity Activity

Helly Hansen Versalite Hybrid Fleece Jacket

Sizes: XS-XL
Warmth: 5/10
Breathability: 7/10
Weather Protection: 7/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Chest panels buffer wind
鈯� Minimal insulation
鈯� Good ventilation
鈯� Limited use of recycled content

Meet your new winter workout partner. Made of moderately thin, gridded polyester fleece topped with a thin polyester shell (94 recycled, with 6 percent elastane) across the chest, this hybrid construction appeals to skate skiers and other speedsters who need scant insulation and a smidge of wind protection. It鈥檚 soft enough for next-to-skin wear, so testers dispensed with any base layer and wore this on its own to maximize the fleece鈥檚 sweat-wicking performance while traversing the rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park through breezy, 15-degree Fahrenheit conditions.

Channels between the fleecy squares help dissipate moisture. A bit of stretch in the shell fabric let testers move without restriction. 鈥淢y pole plants felt free and unencumbered,鈥� reported one tester after a session on Crested Butte鈥檚 Nordic network. When zipped closed, the collar effectively sealed in warmth without feeling constricting. Finally, the hand pockets have openings near the center zipper so that when the pockets are opened, these mesh-lined pouches serve as functional air vents.

Products to Avoid

Synthetic Fleece That Lacks Recycled Content or Biodegradability

You might think that touting recycled content is mere greenwashing鈥攂ut as we near 2025, it should in fact be the standard among all apparel producers. Fabrics (including fleeces) made from recycled nylon and polyester are now so abundant that there鈥檚 virtually no excuse for manufacturers to roll out garments made from virgin materials. Multiple independent studies have confirmed that recycled synthetics impose less environmental impact, and some fleeces are even addressing the problematic end-of-life issues associated with synthetic fabrics (which shed micro-fibers that commonly pollute our streams and drinking water sources). Look for fleeces that are largely made from鈥�100-percent-recycled鈥� materials, and opt for 鈥減ost-consumer鈥� rather than 鈥減ost-industrial鈥� recycled goods when possible. Post-consumer recycling means the brand is actively keeping material out of the landfill, while post-industrial recycling sometimes just means the brand grabbed a bunch of factory-floor scraps that it would have re-used anyway.

How to Choose a Fleece Jacket

Fleece jackets range widely in warmth, breathability, and weather protection. Materials also vary. Synthetic fleece is quick-drying, making it a smart choice for damp conditions, and abrasion-resistant. Unlike wool or even cotton, synthetic fibers can hold their own against friction from backpack straps. But fleece made from merino wool is particularly warm and temperature-regulating (wearers avoid clamminess through a broad spectrum of temperatures). Hybrid constructions鈥攁 trend that continues to gain momentum in this category鈥攃ombine various fabrics in multi-paneled jackets that pair breathable fleece in the hot zones such as underarms with wind-resistant fleece in exposed areas like the shoulders.

Here鈥檚 how to judge what will serve your needs.

Will You Pack It?

As a rule, a fleece isn鈥檛 as compressible as, for example, a down jacket. So it takes up considerable space in luggage or backpacks. If you need heavyweight insulation but know it will remain packed most of the time, you might consider other, more space-saving insulated jackets.

How Much Will You Sweat in This Fleece?

Some fleeces use a dense construction that traps body heat but limits breathability. If you鈥檙e cross-country skiing, running, or logging other high-output outdoor workouts, look for lightweight fleeces or hybrid constructions that use body mapped insulation and place breathable panels under the arms and in other hot spots.

Will You Wear a Water- and Windproof Shell Over this Fleece?

Most fleeces offer some water-resistance, but that varies鈥攁nd no fleece can be counted on to deliver waterproof protection against serious rain or sustained snowfall. Most fleeces are also porous enough to let breezes in, which is great for sweat mitigation but bad for comfort amid 30-mph winds. Consider whether you鈥檒l wear a shell sometimes, always, or never: Ski-tourers might choose a fleece with some weather-resistant panels so they can skip a shell in milder conditions, while resort skiers are often better off with breathable fleece worn as a midlayer under a full shell jacket.

Do You Run Cold?

If you鈥檒l wear the fleece in 0- to 10-degree F temperatures, or if you鈥檙e always chilly no matter the conditions, choose a high-pile fleece with cozy insulation.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 9
• Number of products tested: 21
• Testers鈥� age range: 15 to 54
• States represented: 5 (California, Colorado, Wyoming, Minnesota, Maine)

Our testers don鈥檛 just spend a lot of time outdoors. Yes, they are gifted skiers, mountaineers, ultrarunners, climbers, hikers, and view-admirers. But they also possess the gift of gab. Our testers must be able to say much more about a piece of gear than 鈥淚t鈥檚 awesome鈥� or 鈥淚t sucks.鈥� Instead, we choose industry professionals, lifelong athletes, and fellow gear reviewers who can both identify a product鈥檚 strengths and weaknesses and talk at length about the nitty-gritty details that make a jacket shine in some areas鈥攁nd fall short in others. Over the course of each testing season, each tester keeps notes on their samples鈥� fit, how much wind protection each delivers, its ability to retain warmth, and whether it plays nice with a backpack. They geek out on the gear and its performance, and then deliver those notes to us for final analysis.

For this test, we evaluated 21 of the most promising fleeces on the market, including full-zip and pullover styles. We pored over our testers鈥� notes to nail down each jacket鈥檚 best application: Is the fleece best for dog-walking? Nordic skiing? Apr猫s at the resort? All of the above? Only the items that earned raves on both performance and livability earned coverage among these reviews.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Kelly Bastone moved to the Colorado Rockies in 1998 and has pursued outdoor sports ever since. A freelancer who writes about gear and other outdoor topics for publications such as Backpacker, AFAR, and The Red Bulletin, Bastone has contributed many gear reviews to 国产吃瓜黑料 over the years. An avid skier (resort, Nordic and backcountry), fly-fisher, mountain biker and mushroom forager, she gets the news she needs from the weather report.

Bastone鈥檚 backing band of gear testers includes ski bums across four resorts in California and Colorado: These women click into touring, downhill, or cross-country boards each and every day of the season. A wildlife researcher and ultrarunner punished jackets in Minnesota; another ultrarunner and backcountry rescuer tested insulation on all-weather runs and missions in northwest Colorado; a rancher wore test puffies while exercising her horses in Montana.

The post The Best Women鈥檚 Fleece Jackets of 2025 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Modern base layers have come a long way from the waffle-knit long johns that were wetted out by lunchtime after a few freeze-thaw cycles. From natural temperature-regulating fabrics like Merino wool to synthetic options engineered to wick moisture, today鈥檚 base layers are marvels of technology. Our test crew put 50 items through their paces last winter in locations across North America. Testers skied at resorts and in the backcountry, went backpacking and camping, and ran on both snow-packed trails and city paths to bring you this list of the top performers in the category.

At a Glance

• Editor鈥檚 Choice: and
• Best Winter Running Top:
• Best Value: and
• Best One-Piece:
• Most Comfortable Base Layer Bottom:
• Best For Frigid Temperatures: and
• Best for Winter Camping:
• Best for Winter Backpacking: and
• How to Buy Base Layers
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Editor鈥檚 Choice

Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Midweight Graphic Crew and Pant

Sizes: XS-XL
Key materials: Merino wool, polypropylene
Comfort rating: 9/10
Breathability rating: 10/10
Warmth rating: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Two-layer construction ideal for wool-sensitive people
鈯� Excellent moisture management
鈯� Flat seams are chafe-free under other layers
鈯� No thumb holes

Helly Hansen鈥檚 two-layer LIFA merino tech, which sandwiches an internal synthetic layer with an external merino layer, allows folks who are wool-sensitive to experience the material鈥檚 benefits. The result was a hit among our testers, who uniformly felt that LIFA鈥檚 combination of warmth and breathability made this the ultimate base layer for any winter activity where big temperature fluctuations require the need to stay warm and dry.

While testing this set in regions ranging from the Northeast to the Tetons, testers agreed that the LIFA Merino Midweight crew top and bottom provided warmth on lift rides and windy summits but also wicked moisture extremely efficiently. One tester who happened to have it on while digging out her snowed-in van was impressed with how dry she stayed throughout the physical exertion. For folks wanting even more ventilation, HH makes a zip-neck version for quickly dumping heat.

Best Winter Running Top

Janji Rover Merino Hoodie

Sizes: XS-XXL
Key materials: Merino wool, nylon, spandex
Comfort rating: 9/10
Breathability rating: 9/10
Warmth rating: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Super stretchy and comfortable
鈯� Thumb slits and ponytail hole
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 get stinky
鈯� Baggier fit might not be ideal as a ski base layer

Although Janji considers its Rover hoodie to be a midlayer, this incredibly stretchy and comfortable merino-blend top might be the ultimate versatile hooded long-sleeve shirt. Weighing in at 10.6 ounces, the Rover Merino Hoodie is a true midweight base layer for all winter pursuits, but where it excelled the most during our test was as a running top for a wide range of conditions. Made mostly from merino wool and nylon with a pinch of spandex for added stretch and ease of movement, the Rover pulls on and off easily and feels weightless during your runs, yet adds just the right amount of warmth on cooler mornings and dumps heat effortlessly as your motor gets going.

Testers appreciated thoughtful features including the wide and stretchy thumb slits on the sleeves, a ponytail hole on the snug hood, and a small zipper pocket on the lower hem for stashing coffee money or a house key. I found it to be a fantastic addition to my winter running kit, and I especially appreciated the fact that it literally never got stinky. It鈥檚 become my go-to fall and winter running top.

Best Value

REI Co-op Merino 185 Long-Sleeve Half-Zip Base Layer Top and Bottom

Sizes: XS-XL
Key materials: Merino wool
Comfort rating: 10/10
Breathability rating: 8/10
Warmth rating: 7/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Well-priced base layer staple
鈯� Super soft next to skin
鈯� Built-in SPF 30 sun protection
鈯� Runs big

Anyone shopping for a high-quality merino base layer for skiing that won鈥檛 break the bank should seriously consider REI鈥檚 lineup. Made with 100-percent ultrafine 185-gram merino wool, this layer provides warmth and next-to-skin comfort without any itchiness or chafing. Flat seams and underarm and crotch gussets to enhance your comfort and range of movement, while the super stretchy waistband is low profile beneath ski pants. (The top is available as a crew neck or a half-zip depending on your personal preference.)

Our testers wore this at resorts as well as on winter hikes and snowshoe excursions, and felt that it got the job done, albeit without any bells and whistles like thumb holes or built-in UPF protection. This would be a good choice for someone with basic long underwear needs who want a quality option that isn’t flashy or fancy,鈥� said one Durango, CO-based tester who wore it in a range of conditions last winter. 鈥淚 was surprised by how soft the material was. I didn’t notice or feel it while skiing, hiking, or cross-country skiing. After a big sweat, it dried before the chill set in.鈥�

Best One-Piece

Wild Rye Olivia Onesie

Sizes: 0-18
Key materials: Merino wool
Comfort rating: 9/10
Breathability rating: 8/10
Warmth rating: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Flattering shape
鈯� Boot-top length
鈯� Easy rear zipper for nature breaks
鈯� Runs big

Testers raved about this onesie. A couple of them even admitted to wearing it nearly 24/7 while working from home, going on dog walks, ski touring, and resort skiing. The 100-percent merino wool onesie is butter-soft next to skin, but what sets it apart from other one-piece options are a few thoughtful design components.

Testers loved the soft, wide waistband; it helped keep our ladies from feeling like shapeless blobs while wearing it. Wild Rye put a lot of thought into the rear zip for convenient bathroom access while out in the wild: One tester who wore the onesie beneath a drop-seat bib was happy to report that the interface between the two worked flawlessly. Our lady skiers also appreciated the 戮 boot-top length on the legs and the high-zip neck for added warmth and wind protection. The snug-fitting hood slips easily beneath a helmet, too.

鈥淪o warm and cool at the same time,” said one tester. “The lightweight wool is just right for changing conditions, and the hood and high-zip neck keep you snuggly warm when the chill sets in.鈥�

PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY REI
MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes ($169.95)

Devotee of winter wandering? You can depend on the MSR Evo Trail snowshoes. Great for trails and rolling terrain, they blend simplicity, comfort and performance to keep you exploring with ease.

Other features:

• ParaGlide bindings feature 2 roller buckles and toe stops that make placing your feet and securing and removing straps simple and intuitive鈥攅ven while wearing gloves
• Stretch mesh bindings comfortably hug your feet with no pressure points and fit nearly any footwear
• Steel traction rails and brake bars molded into the decks provide secure and lasting grip
• Molded plastic decks withstand harsh conditions
• Add-on modular flotation tails (not included) accommodate heavier loads, or allow you to go from packed snow to deep powder with a single pair of snowshoes
• Max recommended load with tails (not included): 250 lbs.

Most Comfortable Base Layer Bottom

L茅 Bent Sentinel Midweight Waffle-Knit Bottom

Sizes: XS-L
Key materials: Nuyarn Merino Wool Blend with Bamboo
Comfort rating: 10/10
Breathability rating: 8/10
Warmth rating: 9/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great loft and breathability
鈯� Super warm
鈯� Stretchy and comfortable
鈯� Pricey for base layer bottom

L茅 Bent waffle-knit leggings use the brand鈥檚 tried-and-tested Nuyarn construction, which means the wool fibers are spun around a bamboo filament, rather than coiled, as with traditional merino. The result is more surface area to soak up and diffuse moisture, which leads to a garment with more loft, better temperature regulation, durability, and superior breathability.

Our testers raved about these bottoms, with one Vermont skier admitting that they kept her as warm on the coldest days as her trusty pair of down-insulated crops. 鈥淎 bit bulky,鈥� she commented, 鈥渂ut worth it for the warmth.鈥�

Classified as midweight, the Sentinel uses a waffle-knit design to reduce the weight without sacrificing the performance. The full-length tight is a bit of splurge for a base layer bottom, but testers argued that it鈥檚 a luxury purchase with best-in-class thermoregulation. In other words, you get what you pay for. 鈥淥BSESSED with this baselayer,鈥� said our 5-foot, 6-inch tester. 鈥淚 toured in it and never got too hot. My butt never got cold at the resort, even on the coldest and wettest days.鈥�

Best For Frigid Temperatures

Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip Neck and Bottom

Sizes: XXS-XL
Key materials: Polartec Power Grid synthetic fabric
Comfort rating: 9/10
Breathability rating: 8/10
Warmth rating: 8/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
鈯� Breathable in a range of conditions
鈯� Deep chest zipper, thumb loops, and stretchy underarm gussets
鈯� Not offered in a hooded option

Given the heft of Patagonia鈥檚 beefiest base layer, we expected it to be less breathable. But while the Capilene Thermal Weight Zip Neck and Bottom is the warmest in the brand鈥檚 lineup, our testers were pleasantly surprised by how well this set was able to dump heat, wick sweat, and keep them dry and comfortable throughout a large range of conditions.

Patagonia uses Polartec Power Grid, a lofted synthetic technical fleece that layers a wicking fabric next to your skin to soak up moisture with a top layer that easily disperses it. The 鈥済rid鈥� design creates air channels that help keep the base layers light and breathable. 鈥淭his is a wonderful layer and was often my go-to this winter because I knew it could handle many different conditions and would be the most comfortable,鈥� said one tester who wore it in temperatures down to 5 degrees on shifts as a volunteer ski patroller at Grand Targhee.

Testers also appreciated the substantial layer鈥檚 versatility, allowing them to not only bundle it beneath many layers for warmth on the coldest days but also wear it under just a light shell on the skin track or other active pursuits, where they said it performed equally well. Another tester just replaced her set after eight years of consistent wear. 鈥淭he durability is impressive given the breathability,鈥� she said.

Best for Winter Camping

Houdini Long Power Tights

Sizes: XXS-XL
Key materials: Polartec Power Stretch Pro
Comfort rating: 9/10
Breathability rating: 7/10
Warmth rating: 9/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Warm and cozy
鈯� No inside leg seams
鈯� Waistband could be wider
鈯� Runs a little long

When warmth is of the utmost importance, Houdini鈥檚 Power Tight has got you covered. Literally. They鈥檙e stretchy, insulating, breathable, and oh-so-cozy鈥攕o much so that testers wore them all day then slept in them on winter camping trips in Utah and Colorado.

Made from Polartec Power Stretch Pro, a dual-layer synthetic fabric with four-way stretch that wicks moisture from the skin and disperses it up and out for quick evaporation, the Power Tights were a go-to pick for our testers all winter. The next-to-skin layer feels cozy like fleece, and the outer layer is silky smooth, making it easy to pull on your shell pants. Testers loved that the Houdini Power Tights have no inside leg seams, so chafing is never an issue, but agreed that a wider waistband might be more comfortable when you鈥檙e wearing these around the clock.

Testers who skied in the Power Tights said that they鈥檙e quite warm, and advised pulling them out on colder, lift-riding ski days. But for winter camping, all agreed that these were a staple and worth every penny. 鈥淚 wore them camping early spring in Moab and I was so thankful to have them.鈥�

Best for Winter Backpacking

Minus 33 Long-Sleeve Henley and Woolverino Wool Leggings

Sizes: XS-2XL
Key materials: Merino wool, nylon, spandex
Comfort rating: 9/10
Breathability rating: 8/10
Warmth rating: 7/10

Pros and Cons
鈯� Simple design
鈯� Built-in SPF 50 sun protection
鈯� Comfy, wide waistband with a hidden pocket
鈯� Best for moderate temperatures

In addition to performing well during winter backpacking trips to and fro in temperatures ranging from 10 to 60 degrees, our testers loved that these base layers looked and fit like sporty tops and leggings rather than winter long johns, and that they have UPF 50 sun protection built-in. The Woolverino midweight bottoms feature a yoga-style wide waistband with a small stash pocket and a compression-style silhouette. They are made with a blend of merino wool, nylon, and spandex so they will keep their shape even if you wear them hiking all day, sleep in them, and then wear them to breakfast the next day. The Henley top is made from 100-percent merino wool with a regular fit and flatlock stitching so it鈥檚 comfortably worn with a backpack and doesn鈥檛 bunch up or rub on your shoulders. The three-button front-closure style adds a bit of flair and airflow while the slightly longer sleeves and hemline add to its classy profile.

How To Buy Base Layers

When shopping for base layers, consider how they will perform when you鈥檙e out in the wild. First and foremost, are they comfortable? These are your next-to-skin layers so they need to feel good on your body. Are the seams compatible with backpack straps? Does the hem work well with your ski pants? Does the half-zip, button-up, mock neck, or crew neck satisfy your style? Are you looking for something to wear during long days of uphill travel in the backcountry or will you be spending the day riding chair lifts?

Merino wool fibers are naturally odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and breathable, but generally less durable as synthetic materials. Because synthetics are usually a blend of fabrics, they are popular with those keen on stretchiness and moisture management. It鈥檚 better to buy something that is thoughtfully designed and durable rather than something cheaply made that might fail you on the mountain. Beyond the technical details, you may also want to determine if what you are buying is sustainably produced. Most reputable brands have information about their sustainability practices available on their websites.

How We Test

• Number of Testers: 8
• Number of Products Tested: 46
• Coldest Day During Testing: -10 degrees F
• Warmest Day During Testing: 55 degrees F
• Activities: Resort Skiing, Ski Touring, Camping, Snowshoeing, Dog Walking, Nordic Skiing, Running
• Mountain Ranges Tested In: Rockies, Tetons, Adirondacks, Wasatch, San Juans

Meet Our Testers

Understanding that base layer testing can be highly subjective based on personal preference, body type, activity level, and a host of other factors, we assembled a test team of ladies of all different shapes and sizes, living in different mountain regions, who regularly get after it no matter the winter weather. Category manager and SKI Executive Editor Samantha Berman lives and plays in Colorado鈥檚 Front Range, where she skis most weekends at the I-70 resorts. Other key testers include a Vermont ski patroller as well as a volunteer ski patroller at Grand Targhee.

The post The 11 Best Women鈥檚 Base Layers for Staying Warm and Dry in 2025 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Snowboarding is fun. At least, it should be. When you鈥檙e on the wrong board鈥攐ne that doesn鈥檛 jive with your size, skill level, riding style, conditions, or terrain鈥攆un can devolve into frustration. Luckily for you, our selfless test crew of 12 riders sifted through a stellar crop of 20 women鈥檚 snowboards at Tahoe鈥檚 stunning Diamond Peak Ski Resort this past spring to bring you the best snowboards of 2025.

Even when testers were analyzing snowboards that didn鈥檛 blow them away, risking numb fingers, frozen toes, and, worst of all, high-speed scorpions under the chairlift for the sake of data collection, good times were had. These riders inspected every board to bring you the most ribbon-worthy snowboards on the market. So whether you鈥檙e new to the game or three decades deep in the culture, chances are you鈥檒l find the right board for you below.

At A Glance

• Editors’ Choice:
• Best All-Mountain Freestyle:
• Best Powder Board:
• How to Choose a Women’s Snowboard
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Want more options? Take a look at our favorite unisex and men’s snowboards of the season.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Editors’ Choice

Gnu Barrett

Sizing: 146, 149, 152, 155 cm
Genre: All-mountain
Profile: C3 Camber (camber-dominant hybrid with mild rocker between the feet)
Shape: Directional
Flex: 6/10
Waist Width: 24.5 cm (152 cm)
Sidecut: 8.1 m (152 cm) with progressive Magne-traction

Pros and Cons
鈯� Balanced, reliable yet fun quiver-killer
鈯� Energetic pop
鈯� Excellent edge hold
鈯� Too much board for beginners
鈯� Better suited to jumps than jibs

Gnu first submitted the Barrett鈥攖he long-running pro model of G.O.A.T. frontrunner and snowboard legend 鈥攖o our annual snowboard test a few years ago, and it arrived like a meteor. Christy鈥檚 pro model has been a staple in the Mervin lineup since the mid-90s, but the board has evolved over the years, and the iteration that wowed our team was a mid-stiff, moon-tailed, all-mountain-assaulting, line-lacing, directional deck. It turned out to be the highest scoring board of the test, men鈥檚 or women鈥檚, and we awarded it Editors’ Choice honors. This year, Christy鈥檚 unchanged pro model returned鈥攂oth to our test at Tahoe鈥檚 Diamond Peak and the top of the heap (read our full review).

鈥淕nu nailed it with the Barrett,鈥� applauded Jenna Shlachter, a Tahoe banked slalom trophy collector, Euro-carving connoisseur, and all-around ripper. 鈥淚t鈥檚 equally fun in pow, groomers, chunder, and park. I couldn鈥檛 find its weak point鈥攁 true quiver killer!鈥� She dug the progressive Magne-traction, a design update that features a smooth sidecut in the front half of the board, transitioning to Gnu鈥檚 characteristic serrated sidecut in the back half of the board. 鈥淭he Magne-traction delivers a precise ride with superb edge-hold fit for a queen, and the Barrett performs well wiggling through the trees and arching long turns alike,鈥� reported Shlachter.

Shlachter also loved the energetic flex pattern鈥攕upplied by the Forest Stewardship Council-certified aspen and paulownia core, and reinforcing carbon bands鈥攚hich she found balanced enough for all types of terrain. Mammoth snowboard coach Gela Malek Pour agreed after ripping the Barrett on Diamond Peak鈥檚 fast and steep groomers, wind-loaded tree stashes, and even the park. 鈥淚 had a blast everywhere. I found this board to be the perfect stiffness that manages chatter really well, but at the same time soft enough to flex and pop effortlessly,鈥� she said. Malek Pour also gave kudos to the Barrett鈥檚 versatile 8.1-meter radius sidecut and poppy, hardpack-gripping C3 camber profile (a camber-dominant hybrid with mellow rocker between the feet).

The only ones who wouldn鈥檛 have fun on this whip, said another Sierra tester, are 鈥淧ure park rats and beginner riders.鈥�

Best All-Mountain Freestyle

Jones Women鈥檚 Rally Cat Snowboard

Sizing: 142, 145, 148, 151, 154 cm
Genre: All-mountain freestyle
Profile: True camber
Shape: Directional twin
Flex: 2/5
Waist Width: 24.2 cm (148 cm)
Sidecut: 6.6 m (148 cm)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Approachable flex
鈯� Fun and easy to ride
鈯� Decent float in powder yet still solid riding switch
鈯� More butter than Land O鈥橪akes
鈯� Overwhelmed at high speeds in variable conditions
鈯� Not the most reliable for bigger drops

New for 2025, testers consistently rated Jones鈥� Rally Cat as one of the most approachable and fun snowboards of our Diamond Peak test field. 鈥淲ay fun to ride鈥攊ts life purpose is to bring joy,鈥� reported longtime board tester and Sierra rider Coral Rose Taylor after scoring the Rally Cat high in the pop and butter departments.

Jones combined a capable, all-mountain directional twin shape (a touch of setback, zero taper, full camber, and spooned-out nose and tail) with a softer, forgiving flex pattern. That flex comes from a poplar wood core and a dual-direction, dual-layer, stitched fiberglass laminate. The resulting ride speaks to intermediates or even improving beginners who want to take their riding to new heights. A progressing, all-mountain, Tahoe tester judged the flex 鈥渓oose enough to be playful but stiff enough to hold an edge.鈥� She reported that the shape inspired confidence and elevated her riding to a 鈥渕ore fun level,鈥� recommending the board for 鈥渘ew riders, park riders, and playful freeriders.鈥�

A harder-charging Tahoe freerider and snowboard instructor opined: 鈥淭he Rally Cat loves to spring into the air with minimal effort, and it has a flexy softness that lends itself to ground tricks like butter on toast. However, don鈥檛 ask it to charge through crud or stomp a big drop into a variable landing.鈥� The same buttery flex in the tail that makes the Rally Cat a blast on side hits and park laps can be overwhelmed by overhead drops and chop.

That said, this board certainly isn鈥檛 reserved for intermediate shredders. It just depends on your priorities. Playful advanced riders who prefer wiggling, popping, jibbing, and buttering over pedal-to-the-metal mashing will have a riot on this board. One such rider, freestyle-focused tester and Mammoth snowboard coach Gela Malek Pour, fell in love with the Rally Cat at our Diamond Peak test, and rode the new shape all spring long at her home hill, too. She reported: 鈥淭he slight directional shape and added volume in the nose help this board go through deep, fresh snow effortlessly鈥攅ven if the 鈥榝resh snow鈥� is really some good, ole, heavy Sierra cement.鈥�

Even with the setback stance, Malek Pour felt the lack of taper allowed the Rally Cat to jib through the park and also rip switch extremely well. She also dug the tight, 6.6-meter sidecut for the 148-centimeter length we tested. Combined with the spoon-shaped nose and tail, she said the Rally Cat facilitates, 鈥淓ffortless turn initiation and quick and efficient edge-to-edge transitions.鈥� In sum, Malek Pour praised the Rally Cat as a quiver-killer she鈥檇 happily ride on sunny spring park days, deep mid-winter powder days, and everything in between.

The new Rally Cat is also available in a men鈥檚 version. Jones only sent the women鈥檚 version to this year鈥檚 test.

Best Powder Board

Capita Navigator WMNS

Sizing: 143, 147, 151 cm
Genre: Powder/All-mountain resort
Profile: Hybrid camber
Shape: Directional
Flex: 5.5/10
Waist Width: 24.5 cm (151 cm)
Sidecut: 7.5 m / 6.4 m / 7.5 m (151 cm)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight construction
鈯� Workable flex
鈯� Floaty nose
鈯� Agile turning
鈯� Bucked by variable conditions

Capita鈥檚 Navigator WMNS has flex appeal. The featherlight, lightly tapered directional powder craft sports a medium-soft poplar and paulownia core, bolstered by two parallel strips of shock-absorbing, ollie-enhancing interwoven flax and aramid fibers. The resulting ride? 鈥淪uper fun! Light and easy to get off the ground. It鈥檚 soft and buttery鈥攏ot soft and floppy,鈥� said distinguished first-year Tahoe tester and absolute ripper Kay Okamoto.

An aggressive Tahoe freerider and test veteran agreed, calling the Navigator a 鈥渇lexy stick with personality that navigates the whole mountain with style and ease.鈥� She appreciated the pop powered by the dual-wood core and the flax-and-aramid strips, describing the Navigator as a 鈥渓auncher with plenty of spring.鈥� However, she did voice a critique common with lighter, softer boards: while the Navigator handles pow and fresh corduroy like a dream, she found it was bucked by frozen ruts, high-speed hardpack, and choppy snow.

A lighter-on-her-feet, less aggressive, and more freestyle-oriented rider, Gela Malek Pour, felt otherwise. 鈥淭his board would be my weapon of choice on a powder day, even if you live in a resort town like Mammoth, where everything gets completely tracked out about 45 seconds after the chair opens鈥攂ecause not only does it float through powder, but it also manages chatter well and allows you to power through any choppy technical terrain,鈥� she explained.

There was no debate, however, whether the Navigator was agile. The directional deck sports traditional camber underfoot for edge hold and pop, which transitions to floaty, catch-free rocker just outside the inserts before kicking up into the steeper nose and tail. Combined with a parabolic sidecut that鈥檚 tighter at the waist and longer toward the nose and tail, the Navigator鈥檚 contact points are naturally raised off the snow. Snowboard nerd talk aside, this combination provides fun float in powder and the maneuverability necessary to confidently glide through glades. 鈥淣imble turner,鈥� voiced snowboard instructor Anne Douccette.

After our test week at Diamond Peak, South Lake Tahoe tester Anna Lewandowski spent March and April putting the Navigator through the paces in the Sierra, including a few classic spring powder days that let the lightweight build and wide, rockered nose shine. 鈥淲hile it鈥檚 a great all-mountain directional board for intermediate to expert riders, it stands out in powder conditions,鈥� she claimed. 鈥淚t gives you the ultimate surfy feeling without you having to put all the weight into your back leg.鈥�

Yes. Rival

Sizing: 140, 144, 149, 152 cm
Genre: Freestyle/All-Mountain
Profile: Camber
Shape: True Twin
Flex: 6/10
Waist Width: 23.6cm (149)
Sidecut: 7.6/6.2 (149)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Poppy on jumps
鈯� Pressable on rails
鈯� Capable in most all-mountain situations
鈯� Washed out on larger-radius turns
鈯� Mid-Bite can throw off riders accustomed to smoother sidecuts

Between learning tricks, stacking clips, competing, and cutting through the noise, up-and-coming pros have their work cut out for them. Luckily, young Canadian style savant partnered with Yes. in 2021 to design her dream park workhorse from the ground up. The true twin resonated with our testers from the jump during our 2023 snowboard test at Sugar Bowl.

Yes.鈥檚 鈥淢idBite鈥� sidecut tech, pronounced indents along the edges between the bindings, produces the agility of a narrow-waisted deck while retaining the reliability of a wider board. Factor in a spring-loaded poplar core, and you get a freestyle weapon that鈥檚 nimble and poppy enough for quick spins and trustworthy enough for high-speed takeoffs and heavy landings.

鈥淚t鈥檚 fun for both the park and for jibbing the mountain like it鈥檚 your playground,鈥� claimed snowboard coach Claire Lawrenson. , another park regular, was similarly blown away. 鈥淭he Rival is insanely light,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t must have secret rockets hiding somewhere because it blasts off anything with minimal effort.鈥� She said she would swipe plastic on Pelchat鈥檚 brainchild, stoked to find a camber twin rip stick for women that鈥檚 flexible enough to press and butter but still has excellent snap and response.

Testers were largely impressed by the Rival鈥檚 ability to navigate chop and mix during top-to-bottom resort riding. 鈥淚t turns on a dime, spins like a dream, floats in pow, and can rail an edge with the best of 鈥榚m鈥攕witch and regular,鈥� said Whistler ripper . That said, we should mention that a few all-mountain rippers found it washed out on larger-radius, high-speed turns.

Rossignol Diva

Sizing: 140, 144, 148, 152 cm
Genre: All-Mountain/All-Mountain Freestyle
Profile: Amptek Elite rocker-camber-rocker
Shape: Twin
Flex: 7/10
Waist Width: 24.2 cm (148 cm)
Sidecut: 4.6 鈥� 6.4 鈥� 7.3m (148 cm)

Pros and Cons
鈯� Excellent maneuverability and switch riding with true twin shape
鈯� Decent float in powder for all-mountain freestyle twin
鈯� Both reliable at speed and lively
鈯� Flex isn鈥檛 super butter-friendly and jibby
鈯� Not as floaty as more directional shapes

鈥淒on鈥檛 let the name fool you鈥攖he Diva is an all-mountain weapon,鈥� advised Anna Weber, a snowboard instructor examiner and Sugar Bowl passholder (where we held our 2023 test). She found the true twin to be an all-mountain asset that鈥檚 reliable on edge and stable at speed, traits that can be traced to the board鈥檚 construction. Inside, you鈥檒l find a semi-stiff core reinforced with parallel basalt and kevlar strips and dampened by a urethane ribbon just inside the edges. Add to that a trustworthy camber shape underfoot and a hardpack-hammering serrated sidecut, and you鈥檝e got yourself a board that likes to charge no matter the conditions.

While the stiffness may be overkill for lightfooted intermediates, Weber did find enough edge-to-edge play for quick and effortless turn initiation. 鈥淭orsionally maneuverable through moguls,鈥� agreed Tahoe fitness guru and snowboard coach, Nancy Brest, who also dug the Diva鈥檚 speedy sintered base, top-notch pop, and lightly rockered nose and tail for added float on deeper days.

Testers agreed that the Diva was a solid do-it-all deck.鈥淚t handled high-speed groomers, post-pow-day chop, and sidehits, too,鈥� summed up local rider Gretchen Stone. She recommended the board for 鈥渆xperienced riders who love all terrain and want a responsive, fun, stable board.鈥�

Weber did add one word of caution for all-mountain freestylers looking for a buttery jib stick: 鈥淭he Diva can hang with the best of them on big jumps and cliff drops, but jibbing is not its strong suit.鈥�

How to Choose a Women鈥檚 Snowboard

Shopping for snowboards is like dropping a cliff: It鈥檚 equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. But if you do your homework before you send, chances are you鈥檒l ride out just fine. Here are a few tips to help you stick your landing:

Ride as Many Boards as Possible

Demo boards, swap with your friends, and do whatever it takes to ride as many boards as you can. Testing a diverse range of boards will expand your snowboard lexicon. You can read reviews all day long, but nothing informs your decision-making like time on snow.

If you鈥檙e relatively new to the game, experimenting is especially important: you鈥檙e still developing your preferences, and riding more boards will speed up that process. If you鈥檙e an old head who鈥檚 been riding the same style of board for decades, don鈥檛 be afraid to break out of your shell and try something new. The exception is complete newbies, as switching boards before you know how to turn properly may only frustrate you. Get a board that works, stick with it, and postpone demo sprees until you can comfortably tackle intermediate and advanced terrain.

Shop By Riding Style

Here are the three most common board styles:

Freestyle Boards: Freestyle or park boards are on the shorter side, which makes them easier to spin. They鈥檙e often true twins, meaning they鈥檙e symmetrical from nose to tail, facilitating landing and riding switch. Directional twins are also common: These boards are symmetrical in shape but not in flex pattern or profile, or vice versa. Some park boards are softer, allowing riders to flex, press, and butter, while others are stiffer to handle heavy landings and hold an edge in halfpipes.

Freeride Boards: Freeride boards are designed for speed and stability when charging groomers, riding off-piste, and ripping backcountry conditions. They鈥檙e usually directional (the nose and tail are defined) and tapered (the nose is wider than the tail). Directional shapes float and carve well, but riding switch isn鈥檛 a cakewalk. Many freeride boards are also stiffer, supplying stability for big mountain charging, while others are soft for cruising mellow powder.

All-Mountain Boards: All-mountain shapes blend the freestyle elements of park boards and the big-mountain chops of freeride decks. They鈥檙e meant to be ridden, as the name suggests, all over the mountain鈥攖hey can ride switch through the park one lap and bomb a hike-to chute the next. If you鈥檙e unsure of where to start or you only have a budget for one board, go with a versatile all-mountain board. These shapes are usually directional or directional twins.

Consider Profile

Profile refers to the curvature that鈥檚 visible when you lay a board flat on the ground and look at it from the side. It is a critical element of board design, as it dictates how and where a board interacts with snow. There are two primary profiles to be familiar with: camber and rocker.

Camber: Camber is the time-honored, traditional profile. Lay a cambered board flat, and it looks like an upside-down U. The board will touch the ground near the nose and tail, but the center will be raised. This curvature supplies drive, stability, and edge hold鈥搃t allows riders to flex into the deck and dig into the snow. It鈥檚 also a principle ingredient in pop production鈥攊f you like to send ollies to the moon or carve aggressively on groomers, camber is your launch pad.

Rocker: Rocker is reversed camber. Lay a rockered board flat, and it鈥檚 shaped like a U. You鈥檒l find a single low point in the center of the board while the nose and tail float off the ground. Rocker provides a fun, skatey ride. It鈥檚 easy to turn, and enables you to weight your back foot and float through deep powder. However, it鈥檚 not as reliable in technical steeps, on icy hardpack, or on high-speed straight lines.

Hybrid Camber: Hybrid profiles mix rocker and camber. These combos usually attempt to blend the skatey, buoyant, easy-turning aspects of rocker with the pop, stability, and edge-hold of camber.

Sizing Tips

Sizing a board can be just as tricky as picking one in the first place. Sizing depends on a number of factors, both in terms of the board itself and the rider who鈥檚 rocking it. Here are a few to keep in mind.

Board Length and Rider Height: Back in the day, length was the primary measurement taken into account when sizing a board. You鈥檇 walk into a shop, a stoned teenager would hold a board up to see if it reached between your chin and nose, and bingo: you were on your way. But this outdated method doesn鈥檛 account for weight, which is arguably a more important data point. Nor does it touch on board width, as wider shapes are more common these days.

Rider Weight: Weight, more so than height, is what enables a rider to flex a board and engage its camber profile. Many brands鈥� size charts don鈥檛 mention height but do include rider weight ranges. This is a solid place to start.

Skill Level: If you鈥檙e a beginner, look at softer, forgiving shapes鈥攁nd if you鈥檙e between sizes, err shorter. For example, if you weigh 170 pounds and you鈥檙e deciding between a 157-centimeter option that鈥檚 recommended for 120-180 pounds and a 159 that鈥檚 recommended for 140-200 pounds, go with the 157. A smaller board is going to be much easier to turn and better suited for learning. If you鈥檙e an intermediate, size in the middle of your weight range and consider slightly stiffer all-mountain shapes鈥攖hese boards will allow you to progress and build upon the skills you developed on a softer, shorter shape. If you鈥檙e an advanced rider, your board sizing depends more on riding style.

Riding Style: As we mentioned earlier, different boards are meant for different objectives. Rail riders like small, easy-to-spin boards, while freeriders appreciate the stability of a longer effective edge when speeding down big mountain lines. If you ride everything, a complete dream quiver might look like this: 152 rail board, 155 park board, 158 all-mountain board, 160 freeride board, 161 powder board. That said, we recognize most people can鈥檛 afford a full quiver. So, when in doubt, go with an all-mountain shape and size to get the most versatility for your buck. That 158 can still hit jumps and rails, and on powder days, you can set back your bindings for more float.

Snow Conditions: Powder-specific boards are usually longer, wider, or both, providing more surface area and float in deep snow. If you frequent a powder-blessed location like Japan, you鈥檒l want to size up. If you live on the east coast, that might not be necessary.

Boots: If you have large boots, particularly in relation to your height and weight, you may need to consider a mid-wide or wide board. The last thing you want is toe or heel drag, which will happen on a board that鈥檚 too narrow for your boot length.

Volume-Shifted Shapes: Some boards, referred to as volume-shifted shapes, are meant to be ridden shorter than traditional snowboards. Volume-shifted shapes condense the surface area and float of a longer shape into a more maneuverable package. Usually, a brand will supply sizing recommendations for volume-shifted shapes. Once you figure out your standard board sizing鈥攍ike the 158 all-mountain shape we discussed above鈥攜ou鈥檒l be able to size volume-shifted shapes accordingly.

Demo Multiple Sizes: Again, the best way to develop your understanding of snowboard sizes is to keep demoing boards. Don鈥檛 just demo different boards from different brands, either鈥攊f possible, demo the same board, from the same brand, in slightly different sizes, and test them in varied conditions.

A Note On Picking Between Unisex, Women鈥檚, and Men鈥檚 Boards

Many snowboarders use gender to narrow down their search for the right board, which is totally fine, and in many instances a helpful tool to sift through the myriad of options on the market. However, gender doesn鈥檛 dictate what boards you can and can鈥檛 ride. Far from it. In fact, many of our male and female snowboard testers ride unisex boards, which are becoming increasingly popular as brands turn away from largely unhelpful gender constraints. Some of our female testers even ride men鈥檚 boards (and vice versa), especially if they have bigger boots or prefer a stiffer flex pattern.

Women鈥檚 boards, in general, are sized smaller and more flexible compared to men鈥檚 boards. Other than those key attributes, the biggest difference between men鈥檚 boards and women鈥檚 boards often comes down to graphics, which might impact the aesthetic of your kit, but not the way a board performs on the hill.

As you shop, pay attention to gender if that鈥檚 important to you. However, always remember that it鈥檚 more critical to consider factors like flex, board length, recommended rider weights, board width (your boot size is a critical factor in determining what board widths you should gravitate towards), and other riding features.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 12
• Women’s Snowboards tested: 20
• Furthest a tester traveled to join the fray: Tokyo to Reno, 5,198 miles
• Most money a tester won hitting the casinos in Reno: Approx. $420
• Cases of Fat Tire remaining at the end of the test: 0

This year鈥檚 snowboard test was well-timed. We scheduled our annual board test in late February, which, by chance, turned out to be a couple of days after a massive storm deposited over 10 feet of snow in the highest and harshest reaches of the Sierra鈥攁n awe-inspiring, shred-rich range that traces the border of California and Nevada. Once the roads opened and local testers shoveled their way out of neck-deep driveways, our crew assembled in the Biggest Little City in the World: Reno, Nevada, our basecamp for this year鈥檚 board test.

Each morning, we made the quick trip from Reno up to the slopes of Diamond Peak Ski Resort. There are certainly more famous resorts in Lake Tahoe, and the Diamond Peak locals wouldn鈥檛 have it any other way. The resort is on the small side, but it boasts an impressive 1,840 feet of vertical, the fourth highest in Lake Tahoe鈥攏ot to mention ripping groomers, excellent tree-skiing, and non-existent crowds. While droves of Tahoe tourists flock to bigger resorts on mega passes, Diamond Peak is hidden in plain sight along the northeast shore of the lake, and is publicly owned by the community of Incline Village. The lift tickets are relatively cheap, the vibe is a throwback to mom-and-pop resorts of yore, and the secret stashes stay secret a little longer than you might expect on a powder day.

The storm gave way to sunny days, and we spent the test week exploring Diamond Peak, enjoying wind-loaded powder, manicured groomers, wind-scoured crud, and warming slush. We also checked out the surrounding sidecountry, accessed from a gate at the top of the Crystal Express chair. We had 12 women testers in the mix, enough to handle 20 women鈥檚 decks submitted by brands big and boutique alike. The vast majority of our test team consisted of local Tahoe and Reno riders. Skill sets ranged from intermediate to expert鈥攁 critical mix to assess which boards are best for each specific skill level.

After hammering two or three laps on a board鈥攐ccasionally more if the deck deserved it鈥攖esters returned to shredquarters to fill out comprehensive review forms. We scored boards on overall performance, responsiveness, turning ability, pop, and performance at speed. We had testers dive deep on flex, carving chops, and asked them if they鈥檇 spend their hard-earned cash on each board. Then, we grabbed a drill or screwdriver, found a new steed, swapped bindings, and hit the slopes. Rip, review, wrench, repeat.

We also ran extended testing throughout the rest of the season, seeking to put higher-scoring gear through as many conditions and scenarios as possible. Testers took select splits, solids, boots, bindings, and accessories on trips to Japan, Norway, Utah, Montana, Washington, and beyond. They almost tested through summer, riding at their home mountains of Palisades and Mammoth until the end of May. Finally, I sorted through over 350 feedback forms before identifying the top picks and writing these reviews.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Jenna Shlachter

Truckee鈥檚 own Jenna Shlachter is as brilliant on the hill as she is off it鈥攚hich is saying something, she鈥檚 a Doctor of Psychology, after all. When she鈥檚 not on the clock, she鈥檚 usually on her snowboard, ripping everything from park to powder. Her trophy shelf needs regular reinforcement, as every year she seems to add banked slalom trophies to her already impressive collection. Lucky for us, Shlachter is also an unabashed snowboard nerd, and she鈥檚 been a key contributor to our snowboard test for the last few seasons.

Anna Doucette

is a lifelong snowboarder who鈥檚 been a member of the American Association of Snowboard Instructors for two decades. She鈥檚 spent so many years articulating difficult-to-grasp movements to aspiring riders and fellow instructors that she鈥檚 a natural and extremely articulate gear reviewer, and she鈥檚 been a key contributor to our Tahoe testing.

The post The Best Women鈥檚 Snowboards of 2025 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Pro snowboarder Kimmy Fasani seems to have only one speed: fast. I learn this at her tiny green clapboard cabin on Lake Mary, just 15 minutes up the road from her primary home in Mammoth Lakes, California. Soon after we arrive aboard a little e-powered dinghy, I turn around to gaze over the lake and its forested shores. Kimmy, meanwhile, has somehow already stripped down and pulled on a bikini, and is now leaping off a 20-foot cliff that fronts the frigid alpine water. For a moment, her body is silhouetted against the deep blue summer sky, and then she disappears beneath the glassy surface with a big splash followed by ripples of concentric waves. She surfaces with a whoop and a grin.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a tradition,鈥� Kimmy says as she clambers back up the rocks. As long as the lake isn鈥檛 iced over, she and her husband, artist and pro skier Chris Benchetler, jump in at least once whenever they鈥檙e here. Kimmy towels off, changes into shorts and a long-sleeve shirt, and before long is bounding into the thickets on the south side of the lake, following an overgrown trail. Along with her good friend Cara Williamson, a brand-marketing executive who flew in from Denver for a few days, I run panting behind her, ducking under branches, crawling over logs, and tiptoeing through moats of muck. This is prime bear habitat, she tells me as she wrestles a branch. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e usually standing on the dock, sniffing, checking things out,鈥� she says with a laugh.

Soon we come to a better-trod trail, which switchbacks through shady conifer forests and past sparkling views of the lake to the top of Mammoth Crest. This trail is Kimmy鈥檚 sanity. Now that she鈥檚 a mother of two boys, Koa and Zeppelin, aged six and three, she comes here to move around and drink in the mountain air and remember who she is amid all the motion and mundanity of motherhood.

As she breezes upslope, past ambling couples and vacationing families, I let her do most of the talking. Kimmy has been a professional athlete for 25 years, earning a reputation as a pioneer in women鈥檚 snowboarding. Now she鈥檚 finishing what may be her most challenging project yet. Six years ago, she and Chris invited their friend Tyler Hamlet, a Bellingham, Washington, cinematographer, to film what was supposed to be a lighthearted family documentary, a project that would soon evolve into something much different.

It started in 2017, when Kimmy was pregnant with Koa. With the bright-eyed optimism of people on the brink of parenthood, Kimmy and Chris planned to simply take him along whenever they traveled. They asked Tyler, who had worked with Chris on film projects in the past, if he would capture their joys and mishaps as Koa entered the world. 鈥淚 wanted to try to create a road map for other athletes who wanted to start a family,鈥� Kimmy told me as she huffed up the slope toward Mammoth Crest. 鈥淚 wanted to help them realize that this is possible.鈥�

After Koa arrived, in 2018, Tyler accompanied the couple to New Zealand, where they filmed a short for GoPro (one of Chris鈥檚 sponsors) and started capturing the challenges and hilarity of two pro athletes juggling life, work, and fun with an infant in tow. They surfed, skied, climbed, biked, and drove along the winding seaside roads of the South Island. It was a dream gig, and as veteran athletes Kimmy and Chris were accustomed to being in front of a camera.

But the balancing act turned out to be harder than any of them expected. Between New Zealand and the family鈥檚 next big trip, to Japan, things shifted. Koa was now ten months old, and Kimmy was officially stepping back into work after maternity leave by appearing in a video for her sponsor Burton.

鈥淭yler started realizing, 鈥極h, I better start filming more than the happy moments,鈥欌�夆�� Kimmy says. 鈥淭his life has so much more dimension, and maybe we have a message that can help. But at the time, we didn鈥檛 know what it was.鈥�

Over the coming years, the couple encountered more challenging plot twists than they could have foreseen: the unexpected ripple effects of childhood trauma, a career-hampering injury, an acute medical crisis for Koa, and, for Kimmy, an aggressive-breast-cancer diagnosis at 37, just months after her second child was born.

For years, Kimmy and Chris kept the documentary secret, not quite sure where it would lead. Tyler did other work for his clients, like Dakine and ESPN, but when he was with Kimmy and Chris, he kept the cameras rolling more than he otherwise would. He filmed them in the mountains, in formal interview settings, and during casual moments. The project became something much more real than any of them expected.

On the slopes above Lake Mary, Kimmy moves quickly up into the mountains, each footfall fast and confident, while Cara and I trail behind her. She tells me she has only just started to share the details of the film with people outside her immediate circle. 鈥淚t鈥檚 scary talking about our private life, because there鈥檚 always room for criticism,鈥� she says. 鈥淭here鈥檚 so much unknown as to how the movie will be received. I wanted it to be an honest, raw, vulnerable piece that tackles big topics.鈥� At once edgy and hopeful, Kimmy is finally ready to launch it into the world. She鈥檚 willing to be seen in a new way.

The post Kimmy Fasani Has Always Been Fearless. Motherhood鈥攁nd Breast Cancer 鈥擳aught Her to Be Vulnerable. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Sports bras are like brakes on a vehicle: no one gets excited about using them, but they鈥檙e absolutely necessary. We found a few that we actually enjoy wearing for their combination of comfort and versatile support.

Updated September 2024: We鈥檝e replaced three bras, removed three, and added three new picks to our guide from Brooks, Icebreaker, and Nike.

At A Glance

• Best for Low Impact:
• Best for High Impact:
• Best for Large-chested Athletes:
• Best Adjustable:
• Best for Wearing on Its Own:
• Best for Wearing All Day:
• Best for Winter Sports:
• Best for Carrying a Phone on the Run:
• Best Value:
• How to Choose Sports Bras
• How We Tested
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Be sure to also check out our picks for the best women’s running shirts and tank tops.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best for Low Impact

Title Nine Handful Bra

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揕

Pros and Cons
鈯� Loose cup fabric is supremely comfortable
鈯� Flattering shaping
鈯� Adjustable straps can chafe

Testers were impressed by the combination of the compressive chest band and loose cups on this bra, which provided a balance of support and flexibility. We also liked that the thin straps and lower cut of this bra made it easy to wear under all sorts of tees and tanks. 鈥淚 found myself reaching for it over and over,鈥� said one tester, who liked that the shaping avoided the 鈥渦ni-boob鈥� effect. She also appreciated how it supported her as an active mom. 鈥淭his bra was really comfortable for breastfeeding!鈥� she reported. 鈥淪ome of the more fitted bras made it tricky or impossible to pop a boob for a hungry baby.鈥�

Best for High Impact

Rabbit UtiliBRA-vo

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� 脺ber-secure phone pocket
鈯� Classic racerback fit
鈯� Not the most breathable

If you love classic racerback bras, add a few of these to your underwear drawer. Chances are good they鈥檒l fit and support you well, as one of our testers raved: 鈥淭he fabric hits a sweet spot of compression that I think will please 85 percent of runners鈥攏ot too much, not too little.鈥� This bra also has the most secure back phone pocket we鈥檝e ever used, without being over-designed. 鈥淢ost phone pocket bras try to be all fancy and featured and space-agey,鈥� another tester said. 鈥淭his is the first one I鈥檝e tried that鈥檚 basically just a regular old racerback, both in terms of fit and looks.鈥� The polyester-spandex fabric is slightly thicker than the other favorites, making it a great choice for high-impact activities year-round.

Best for Large-chested Athletes

Brooks Convertible 2.0

Sizes: 32鈥�40, B鈥揇D

Pros and Cons
鈯� Provides ample support
鈯� Not hot or constrictive
鈯� Can be slightly uncomfortable in racerback mode

Our DDD tester reported that this bra proved 鈥渧ery supportive鈥� for running and jumping without massive amounts of material, which other high-support bras tend to have. 鈥淚 liked not being overly sweaty when I鈥檓 done working out,鈥� she said. The bra straps convert to a racerback to fit under tanks, which all testers appreciated, though one reported slight irritation by the fastener clip when in criss-cross mode. However, this bra ranked high in comfort while in standard mode. 鈥淚 could wear this all day,鈥� said a tester. The adjustable chest band and shoulder straps add somewhat custom fitting.

Best Adjustable Fit

Tracksmith Allston Adjustable Bra

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揕

Pros and Cons
鈯� Adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap
鈯� Convertible to racerback
鈯� Clip can be felt in racerback mode

This bra is adjustable three ways: the chest band has three clips for dialing size around the ribcage, the shoulder straps are length-adjustable, and the bra can convert to racerback via a clip in the middle of the back, which puts it in high-impact-support mode. The racerback clip can be switched back and forth during one workout. 鈥淚 love the adjustability and the smooth fabric,鈥� said a tester who wore the bra while hiking, biking, and running. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great bra for someone who might end up wearing a sports bra all day because of logistics, but who wants to ease off the intensity for apr茅s workout.鈥� The Allston Adjustable is made of Tracksmith鈥檚 luxuriously smooth nylon-elastane blend, with interior cups lined with nylon-elastane powermesh, which enhances compressive support.

Best for Wearing on its Own

Janji Pace Sports Bra

Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥揦齿齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Best range of sizes among pull-over bras
鈯� Unique, flattering and supportive straps
鈯� Removable pads come out in wash

This seemingly simple sports bra has design details we fell in love with鈥攁 flattering neckline with double straps, positioned narrower than most, that weave between each other when they cross mid back. This bra proved supportive enough even for C- to D-cup testers doing high-impact activities like running and jumping. 鈥淣ice encapsulation and I love the cross back with support!鈥� said one. 鈥淵ou don’t usually get 鈥榗ute鈥� with 鈥榮upportive.鈥欌�� We wore this skate skiing, running, cycling, and, when a tester couldn鈥檛 find her bikini, at swim lessons with her son. This bra proved comfortable and up to the task for all activities.

Best for Wearing All Day

Patagonia Live Simply Everyday Bra

Sizes: X齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Minimal and versatile
鈯� Quick drying
鈯� Can fit a little loose in places

We鈥檝e worn this bra hiking in 106藲 heat, working at a desk for hours then jumping into a weight-lifting session, and running in all sorts of conditions鈥攊ncluding plunging into trailside lakes. This bra remained comfortable throughout all activities and even when sitting around casually. Its bonded seam construction lies flat and smooth with zero irritation, and the extremely lightweight, soft, 100 percent polyester tricot fabric dries ridiculously quickly. Since it doesn鈥檛 contain Spandex, the bra isn鈥檛 as supportive as some others, but it also doesn鈥檛 stretch as much. It鈥檚 best for low-impact for all cup sizes, or any activity for A to C cups. This bra also has the antimicrobial treatment HeiQ PURE to combat odor.

Best for Winter Sports

Icebreaker Merino Blend 125 ZoneKnit Racerback Bra

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely soft against the skin
鈯� Comfortable fit
鈯� High maintenance washing: cold water, gentle cycle, like colors

Merino wool makes up 40 percent of this bra, and we love how it feels against the skin, especially on cold mornings. The other 60 percent鈥攁 blend of lyocell and elastane鈥攈elp provide support while keeping the bra from stretching out and losing shape. Small perforations on the back aid breathability even during the sweatiest of winter activities (hello, Nordic skiing). And flatlock seams minimize irritation, even when worn under a backpack. This bra also has removable cups, for slight customization. 鈥淭his bra is so good,鈥� gushed a tester who wore it downhill and Nordic skiing, hiking, running, cycling, and casually. 鈥淚t was my favorite of the entire test. 鈥�

Best for Carrying a Phone on the Run

Oiselle Flyout Bra

Sizes: 2鈥�14

Pros and Cons
鈯� Perfectly placed and ventilated phone pocket
鈯� Padded cups stay in place
鈯� Wide shoulder straps show under some tops
鈯� Fabric is a little thick

Designed for trail runners who need soft, wide bra straps that lay flat under hydration packs, the Flyout Bra was a tester favorite for all sorts of high-impact activities, from running to Orangetheory Fitness classes. 鈥淚t鈥檚 the only sports bra I have with padded cups that don鈥檛 fall out in the washing machine,鈥� said a tester. We are all longtime fans of bras with phone pockets on the back, but the pocket on this bra exceeded expectations鈥攊t鈥檚 a cinch to reach, ventilates so your phone doesn鈥檛 get sweaty, and holds it in place so well you forget that it鈥檚 there.

Best Value

Nike Swoosh Medium Support

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Fixed cups mean no pads to lose
鈯� Durable, long-lasting comfort
鈯� Pads, if you鈥檙e not a fan of them

One tester has been wearing an earlier version of this sports bra for close to 20 years. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been all over the world while keeping me comfortable running, cycling, hiking, Nordic skiing, etc.,鈥� she says. The simple, pull-on style bra wicks sweat and remains comfortable for hours. The newest version of this do-anything, durable bra comes with light padding built in (no slipping, no losing the padding in the wash), and is made with sustainable, recycled polyester materials. Its $40 price point makes it among the least expensive sports bras out there, and while it鈥檚 classified as 鈥渕edium support,鈥� it can function as high support across a range of activities for smaller chest sizes. It also lasts for-e-ver.

How to Choose Sports Bras

When shopping for sports bras, you need to consider three factors: comfort, support, and breathability.

Comfort

Comfort is personal. Nothing can replace trying on the bra to ensure it fits your body and the fabric feels good against your skin. Each brand sizes their bras differently, so be sure to try on a range of sizes.

Support

When it comes to support, different categories like 鈥渓ow impact鈥� and 鈥渕edium support鈥� can be confusing because different brands define them in different ways. In general, bras marketed for low-impact activities like yoga or hiking will offer less support and technical features than those for high-impact activities, like running or HIIT classes. On the flip side, bras designed to offer higher support may be less breathable and more constricting

If you have a small cup size, you may find that low- and medium-support bras work perfectly well for high-impact activities, but women with larger cup sizes often need those 鈥渉igh support鈥� bras even for some low-impact activities. Whatever you choose, know that the bra鈥檚 underband鈥攖he most important part for support鈥攕hould fit securely but not so tightly that you can鈥檛 breathe. The straps should not dig into your skin or leave red marks when you take the bra off.

Breathability

Too much sweat accumulation on a bra is not only uncomfortable but unhygienic, trapping bacteria on your skin and back. Sport-specific fabric blends鈥攐ften made with polyester, nylon, or merino wool鈥攕hould have strong moisture-wicking properties, and bras made of thinner fabric will allow more heat and perspiration to pass through.

How We Tested

• Number of testers: 11
• Number of bras tested: 22
• Hours working out in test bras: 500
• Toughest testing conditions: Two-plus hours whitewater paddling and then hiking from the bottom of the Grand Canyon to the South Rim while carrying a full backpack full of gear. Close second: Downhill skiing with a toddler.

We wore these bras for running, cycling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, yoga, hiking, dog walking, camping, and working at a desk. Every tester wears a different size, ranging from A to DDD cups. If at least two testers agreed that a bra was comfortable and functional, it made our short list. Then we narrowed down the contenders based on functionality for various sports, style, and price.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and 国产吃瓜黑料 contributing editor based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She tested all the bras in this review while running, doing yoga, hiking throughout northern New Mexico, and driving and flying long distances in between. She still hasn鈥檛 found a bra that she can run in and bear to wear for more than six hours after, but hey, six hours is pretty good.

Lisa Jhung lives and works in Boulder, Colorado, where she writes, edits, and tests gear by doing a variety of outdoor winter sports: running (road, trail, and full-on mountain), Nordic skiing, snowboarding, dog-walking, etc. She also does yoga and lifts weights, sometimes by carrying flagstones around her yard and doing overhead squats and chest presses with a digging bar. She likes to get sh** done while strength training.

The post The Best Sports Bras of 2024 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Since the beginning of women鈥檚 sports, a question has loomed: who qualifies as female? Tested follows the unfolding story of elite female runners who have been told they can no longer race as women, because of their biology. As the Olympics approach, they face hard choices: take drugs to lower their natural testosterone levels, give up their sport entirely, or fight. This episode asks: Would you alter your body for the chance to compete for a gold medal?

The post The Olympic Athletes Being Required to Take Drugs appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Crushing your summer workout isn鈥檛 just about mental fortitude or a high heat tolerance鈥攚hat you wear can seriously impact performance, too. Clothing that wicks moisture, shields harsh rays, and provides ample ventilation can spell the difference between a workout high and a full-on sufferfest.

We spent over 200 hours testing nearly 50 products in conditions as hot as 100 degrees. Our goal: identify the best women鈥檚 summer workout clothing to elevate your exercise game. Here are the tops and shorts to shop now.

At a Glance

Tops

Shorts

How to Choose Workout Apparel
How We Test
Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Summer Workout Tops

Vuori Pose Plyo Tank

Sizes: X齿厂鈥揦齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Stylish design
鈯� Soft, comfortable fabric
鈯� Not enough support for running
鈯� Crop cut and bust support may not be comfortable for some

This cropped tank earned top style points, with three testers scoring it a 10 out of 10 for aesthetics. The high neck and racerback design created a sleek, sporty look that lead tester Jenny McCoy enjoyed wearing both during and outside of workouts; it quickly became her go-to option for running errands and lounging at home. Colorado-based tester Megan Giehl described the rayon-elastane fabric as soft, comfortable, and breathable for barre, indoor cycling, and outdoor walks in conditions as warm at 95 degrees.

The built-in bra secured Jenny鈥檚 chest as she performed a variety of movements in HIIT and strength workouts, including jumping jacks and squat jumps, but she noted it didn鈥檛 provide enough support for longer-duration high-impact activities, like running. Lastly, not everyone was a fan of the trendy, cropped style: Jenny only felt comfortable wearing the shirt with high-waisted bottoms, and another tester found it too short for any occasion.

Helly Hansen Tech Split Back Tank 2.0

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Silky fabric
鈯� Split back design provides ventilation
鈯� Versatile adaptability
鈯� Minimalist style may not appeal to all

The split-back design of this top kept testers cool during a variety of workouts, including hiking, HIIT workouts, strength sessions, and walks in 90-degree heat. Though two testers found the loose, billowy style to be ill-suited for moves like pikes and yoga inversions, NYC tester Elle Brunsdale discovered that by tying the two back ends together, the shirt transformed into a more secure, form-fitting garment. 鈥淚 like having the back open while I’m running or otherwise moving around vertically for the extra air flow to keep me cool,鈥� she said. 鈥淔or horizontal movements, like pendulum push-ups, I like having the back tied together for a tighter style.鈥� Another tester praised the recycled polyester-elastane fabric for its breathability, and called it, 鈥渧ery smooth,鈥� and 鈥渟ilky to the touch,鈥� while a third tester enjoyed the shirt鈥檚 generous length, which covered her crotch and the top of her thighs so she felt confident wearing it with tight shorts.

Fabletics Dry-Flex Muscle Tank

Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥�4齿

Pros and Cons
鈯� Butter-soft fabric
鈯� Loose, comfortable styling
鈯� Wide range of inclusive sizes
鈯� Cropped, flowing design not suitable for activities like yoga or Pilates

Testers loved the soft, lightweight fabric of this shirt; Jenny described it as 鈥渧elvety鈥� and 鈥渂uttery鈥� and even slept in the top several times鈥攂ecause it was that comfortable. Beyond its luxe feel, the flowy, loose style proved functional as testers wore it on long hikes and during cardio and resistance classes without overheating. Jenny appreciated that the cropped bottom was longer in length than some that she says feel 鈥渋nappropriately short,鈥� and liked that the high neck provided sun protection for her chest, such as on a 90-minute hike in 60-degree weather. Another tester raved about the overall aesthetic, saying the barely-there feel and muscle top style made her feel 鈥渟trong and confident.鈥� Though the cropped, loose style was a hit for cardio workouts, testers warned that it may not be suitable for activities like yoga or Pilates where the excess fabric could be distracting.

Nathan SportsWomen’s Sprinter Sleeveless Shirt

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Quick drying fabric
鈯� Flowy design boosts ventilation
鈯� High neck adds sun protection
鈯� Boxy design more functional than stylish

This mesh fabric top is marketed as having 鈥渟uperior moisture management,鈥� and Jenny discovered that claim to be spot on. During a sunny 6-mile high alpine hike, an unexpected downpour soaked Jenny but this lightweight, water-wicking top didn鈥檛 get saturated, helping her avoid hypothermia as her temperature dropped. In less extreme conditions, one tester said the loose, crop-style top provided ample breathability on sweaty outdoor runs and didn鈥檛 stick to her skin.

Jenny said the arm holes鈥攚hich were a 鈥渘ice balance between loose but not too baggy鈥濃�攑revented sweat from pooling during a 60-minute indoor strength workout. One tester appreciated how the high neck design helped shield her chest from the sun, but docked the top鈥檚 style. 鈥淚t’s not as cute as I’d typically want,鈥� she said, describing the boxy style as 鈥渕ore utilitarian.鈥� And, given the loose cut, she wouldn鈥檛 recommend the top for any activity involving inversions.

Nathan Dash 2.0 Short Sleeve Shirt

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Soft, stretchy, and sweat-wicking fabric
鈯� Flattering, stylish cut
鈯� Versatile for any type of workout
鈯� Limited sizing range

By far our testers鈥� favorite pick in 2023, this minimalist t-shirt is functional, comfortable, and stylish. Made with a polyester-nylon-elastane performance blend that鈥檚 oh-so-soft and stretchy, this top wicked away our testers鈥� sweat during a variety of workouts, including a walk in 80-degree weather and a 30-minute indoor strength session. The flattering, relaxed fit, which Elle described as 鈥渓oose in a good way,鈥� provided ample ventilation and breathability, and, she said, remained comfortable as she busted out burpees. The top even performed well in an impromptu workout: Jenny was wearing it when she had to sprint a mile through the airport and arrived at her gate with zero chafing or obvious sweat stains.

Workout Shorts

Alder Roots x alder Cargo Short

Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥�4齿

Pros and Cons
鈯� Thick, supportive waistband
鈯� Durable fabric
鈯� Wide range of inclusive sizes
鈯� Too bulky for high-intensity activities like running and yoga

A favorite of all three testers who tried them, these high-waisted, cargo-style shorts ranked high in fit and comfort. Jenny enjoyed the 鈥渟nug but not constricting鈥� waistband and Megan appreciated the inner drawstring that she called 鈥渃omfortable鈥� and 鈥渘ot bulky.鈥� The fabric, a water-resistant nylon-spandex blend, felt 鈥渧ery practical and durable,鈥� said Megan, who tested the shorts during hiking, biking, and walking workouts.

The 5-inch inseam and loose fit through the legs provided ventilation that helped Jenny avoid a sweaty crotch as she taught a 45-minute fitness class in 81-degree weather and walked outside for an hour in 90-degree heat. The short鈥檚 pockets were another plus: two deep, open pockets on the side and one zip pocket in the back provided generous storage options for necessities like a phone, keys, and wallet. Testers loved these shorts for strength training as well outdoor activities like hiking and walking, but noted they would be too bulky for running, yoga, Pilates, and barre workouts.

Alo Yoga Ivy League Dolphin Short

Sizes: X齿厂鈥揕

Pros and Cons
鈯� Thick, supportive waistband
鈯� Lightweight, soft fabric
鈯� Functional pockets
鈯� Limited sizing for folks with bigger bodies
鈯� 2.5-inch length may feel too short for some

These flowy, lightweight bottoms ticked all the boxes Megan looks for in shorts: 鈥淭hey had pockets, a thick waistband, were stylish, cool/breathable, and had built-in underwear support,鈥� she said. Another tester raved about the soft, quick-drying fabric, which kept her dry and comfortable during indoor strength workouts as well as outdoor walks and hikes. That same tester noted the loose cut around the legs also made them an easy choice for running, and especially loved the bright coral color, which differed from many bottoms in her closet.

The downside: Both Jenny and Megan found the retro, high-cut, billowy style to be too high for comfort in some settings. While doing on-the-floor exercises in an indoor strength class, like bicycle crunches and leg pulses, Jenny worried about indecent exposure. Also, though Megan liked the coverage provided by the built-in underwear, she found it a smidge small and prone to wedgies.

Nike Universa Women’s Medium-Support High-Waisted 8″ Biker Short

Sizes: X齿厂鈥揦齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Supportive high-waist design
鈯� Breathable fabric
鈯� Chic style
鈯� Skin-tight fit may not be comfortable for some
鈯� Lack of drawstring can cause waistband to roll down

As someone who typically prefers loose-fitting shorts, Jenny found these body-hugging bottoms to be the best biker shorts she鈥檚 tried to date鈥攐ut of about a dozen. The 8-inch inseam length鈥搇onger than most styles鈥揹idn鈥檛 bunch as she squatted, lunged, and jumped during strength classes, and the medium-support style felt tight but not constricting. Another tester reported the nylon-spandex fabric was 鈥渟urprisingly breathable鈥� given the form-fitting design, and loved how the high waist provided support around her core as she completed Pilates, cardio, and physical therapy workouts.

A bonus: The bottoms made her feel 鈥渁thletic and chic,鈥� like 鈥淜im Kardashian on a coffee run.鈥� Unfortunately, the seamless design and lack of drawstring meant the waistband occasionally rolled down annoyingly on one tester.

Vuori Clementine Short 2.0

Sizes: X齿厂鈥揦齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Breathable, soft fabric
鈯� Flowy fit provides good ventilation
鈯� Supportive waistband with thick drawstring
鈯� Only one small pocket; low-cut waist uncomfortable for some

These flowy, low-waisted shorts ticked a lot of boxes: lightweight, breathable, comfortable, and stylish. The fabric鈥攁 blend of polyester (50 percent recycled) and elastane鈥攚as soft and breezy, while tough enough for 90-minute strength sessions, one tester reported. They kept Jenny cool and free from crotch sweat on a summer run with temps pushing 70 degrees.

The waistband struck the ideal balance between supportive and too tight, and the drawstring allowed for easy adjustments. The thickness of the drawstring cord was a particular plus since it meant minimal risk of the string getting lost inside the shorts. A single small zip pocket in the front provided a secure place to stash a key, but wasn鈥檛 large enough to store anything else. In sum, testers named this a standout, lightweight and breathable short for running, hiking, or HIIT.

Smartwool Women鈥檚 Active Lined 4鈥� Short

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight, breathable fabric
鈯� Supportive and easy-to-adjust waistband
鈯� Soft, odor-resistant merino-blend liner
鈯� Thick waistband can get sweaty
鈯� Rides up thighs in inversions

Testers felt comfortable and supported in these shorts thanks to the thick elastic waistband and sturdy drawstring that allowed for easy adjustments. The lightweight polyester-elastane body fabric with a liner of merino blended with Tencel Lyocell was also a plus: during indoor cardio and strength training sessions, Elle said, 鈥淚t felt like I was wearing nothing.鈥� Another tester, based in sunny Colorado, described the fabric as 鈥渟uper light and breezy,鈥� noting that it prevented her from getting too sweaty as she hiked and played with her grandkids outside on warm days. In fact, the quick-drying shorts became her 鈥済o-to鈥� for hot hiking workouts.

One negative: They鈥檙e not ideal for any upside-down movements鈥搇ike handstands or yoga inversions鈥揳s the loose style exposes your upper thigh, noted Elle. Another ding: One tester found the thick elastic waistband got slightly soaked during really sweaty workouts.

How To Choose Workout Apparel

First consider a garment鈥檚 material: You want breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that allows ample airflow and prevents sweat from pooling on your skin. Steer clear of cotton, which tends to absorb and retain moisture, and instead reach for synthetic, technical blends.

Then, evaluate how the clothing fits and feels on your body. Walk around and do squats and jumping jacks to ensure it鈥檚 comfortable, stays in place, and doesn鈥檛 chafe as you move. Notice how tight or loose it feels against your skin, and consider how functional the fit is for your preferred workouts. For example, you may want body-hugging attire for activities like yoga, cycling, and barre, since extra fabric could impede your movements. In contrast, you may prefer looser garments for ventures like hiking and running where ample ventilation is key.

Next, consider how much sun protection the clothing offers. The recommends attire with a UPF rating of at least 30, noting that a UPF of 50+ is 鈥渆xcellent.鈥� They also suggest looser-fitting clothes in dark or bright shades as well as garments that cover as much skin as possible.

Lastly, look in the mirror and take stock of how you feel wearing a given item. Does a shirt elevate your confidence, giving you mojo to crush your workout? That鈥檚 the type of attire worth spending your bucks on.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 8
• Number of products tested: 42 tops, 33 shorts
• Number of workouts: 351
• Number of miles: 369
• Hottest workout: 100 degrees
• Number of minutes exercising: 19,690
• Number of workout types: 18

We enlisted eight testers of varying ages, sizes, body shapes, and workout preferences. They lived in differing climates across the U.S.鈥搃ncluding the high Colorado desert, the muggy Midwest, and coastal Northeast鈥揳nd tested gear at home and in vacation spots that included British Columbia, the Bavarian Alps, the suburbs of Detroit, and Big Sur, California.

In most cases, three different testers evaluated each piece of clothing, trying it in at least two workouts鈥揺verything from running, walking, hiking, and biking to yoga, HIIT, Pilates, and weightlifting. During the testing process, reviewers scrutinized fit, style, comfort, and price, as well as a garment鈥檚 ability to breathe and wick sweat. The products listed here scored highest in these categories.

Meet Our Lead Testers

is a freelance journalist and fitness instructor in Louisville, Colorado. She stays active with trail running, gravel biking, hiking, swimming, strength training, and neighborhood walks with her dog, Lucy. For this review, Jenny tested 21 tops and 14 shorts, logging 2,905 total exercise minutes. Her most memorable test experience: a sunny hike at 10,000 feet that unexpectedly morphed into a torrential downpour. Luckily, she avoided hypothermia thanks to moisture-wicking, quick-drying garb.

is a sustainable infrastructure investor in New York City. An avid outdoorswoman and former Division 1 collegiate athlete, Elle maintains her fitness with track workouts, HIIT sessions, strength training, and swimming. She also enjoys fly fishing, horseback riding, and skiing. Elle tested the gear in contrasting climates鈥揻rom the deserts of southern Utah to the temperate forests of Germany to the humid coast of New York. All in, over two testing seasons, she logged 1620 minutes assessing 15 tops and 11 shorts. Her hottest workout? A tempo run in Central Park in 85-degree weather.

is a licensed couples therapist in Westminster, Colorado. Her fitness routine includes a mix of cycling, barre, yoga, hiking, and weight training. A lover of summer weather, Megan recorded the hottest workout of all the testers: a 45-minute walk in 100 degree heat. She evaluated eight tops and five bottoms for this review, taking 300,500 total steps and completing 46 workouts in the process.

Rebecca Kay is a Chicago-based writer. Her fitness routine includes a mix of yoga, running, barre, and cycling workouts. In the summer, you can find her dodging tourists while biking the lakefront path. She spent a total of 1,050 minutes testing 5 tops and 5 bottoms for this review, logging 23,412 steps and discovering a new appreciation for biker shorts in the process.

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