Gear Review: Columbia Midweight Baselayer Shirt

We put the Men's Baselayer Midweight Long Sleeve Top by Columbia to the test. Made from anti-microbial polyester, this stretchy long sleeve shirt is the first thing to throw on before heading out into the colder weather. As a baselayer it fits snug, and includes Columbia's Omni-Wick technology under the armpits and along the sides to move perspiration away from your body.

So why purchase this technical fabric over any other first layer? Omni-Heat, Columbia's thermal reflective technology which "helps your body regulate your temperature by reflecting and retaining the warmth that your body generates".

On the inside of the base layer are row upon row of tiny silver dots lining the garment radiating your body's heat back at you. It's the same concept as an emergency-kit thermal blanket, however far more comfortable to wear as a base layer...

Try as I might... an emergency blanket just doesn't make a good baselayer.

When I first put on the long sleeve shirt, I was expecting to become so overheated that I would have to start removing layers. In fact at first, I didn't notice anything different at all. It wasn't until I started to get moving and take part in some physical activities that I really noticed it start to work.

The perfect baselayer for Cross Country Skiing

As the furnace of your body puts out heat, you are in turn kept warm. From the edge of your sleeve to the ring of your collar, the reflectiveness is continuous. The flat stitching of the shirt is unobtrusive with numerous layers or backpacks. In fact the whole baselayer is just that... unobtrusive for such an effective garment. It works, and I recommend it! The Columbia Midweight Baselayer is $64.99 and comes in Mystery, Royal, Grill, Compass Blue and Black for Men, and White, Light Grape, Bright Rose and Black for Women. There are also Short Sleeved Tops as well as Heavyweight tops (with and without zips)