We'll admit it, we'll admit it... At first glance, the new Merino Wool Base Layer is an unassuming winterized long sleeve. But as with most things we try to do here at Bandit HQ, there's more to it than meets the eye. Allow us to explain.
The design lines on the front and back bodice were influenced by the athletic, cutaway silhouettes of our performance tops. Notice how the back of the Men's Base Layer resembles our Drift™ Performance Singlet (above), and the front and back of the Women's Base Layer emulates the Stamina Race Crop (below).
With an item such as the Base Layer that's particularly versatile in its ability to transition from performance to lifestyle scenarios (we call this on/off the run), we're careful to intentionally design through a performance lens. We never want a piece you rely on for running to lack the construction and attitude for high performance.
Also much like our Stamina™ Bras and Crops, the top half of the Women's Base Layer is double-layered. Among other good reasons, double layering enables clean finishing, which is a hallmark of a well-made performance product. This is most noticeable around the neckline, which especially on a base layer is a subtle difference-maker in comfortability.
Another subtle detail is the seamless thumbhole construction designed so the opening collapses against the cuff when it's not being used. Let us never forget the actual quote by Ardith (Bandit Co-Founder & Chief Design Officer) in Outside Magazine, “If you look super-technical with a bunch of bells and whistles and you’re just out for a slow jog through Brooklyn—then that’s not a vibe at all.”
Aesthetically, the Base Layer features a minimal design quiet enough to layer onto, but also elevated enough to wear on its own. And from a runnability standpoint, our Merino Wool knitted into a fine jersey strikes the perfect balance of breathability and thermoregulating, which is what truly creates that "cozy" feel. It's not too hot, it's not too cold, it's juuuust right.
Shop the Base Layer here:
