Layers for life: Zerofit hiking base layers reviewed

You may not have heard of Zerofit before, and that’s not surprising. While this Japanese brand has been doing well in its native markets, it’s only in 2021 that it has really been making any ripples over here. But ripples it is making; Zerofit’s base layers are finding fans in golf, sailing, motorcycling and, of course, outdoor enthusiasts.

Related: Best Walking Accessories

The flagship product is the Heatrub Ultimate, a full winter base layer that claims to be five times warmer than a regular base layer. At the other end of the scale, Zerofit has its Cold Skin base layers which actively cool the wearer and offer sun protection in hot climates. And in-between are a number of base layers utilising different fabrics to provide maximum performance in almost any climate.

The Zerofit product line-up includes long- and short-sleeved tops with crew-, high- and V-necked options, plus leggings, hoodies and socks, and all are available in men’s and women’s fits. Let’s take a closer look at the seven layers on offer…

The magnificent 7

Heatrub Ultimate £60

The double-loop barrel fabric provides both heat insulation and ‘friction heating’. Extra-long bristles ensure a layer of warm air is retained around the body, while even a little movement of these bristles causes friction which generates heat and warms the wearer.

Temp range -10°C to 10°C | Material 68% acrylic, 21% nylon, 7% wool, 2% polyester, 2% polyurethane

Heatrub Merino £99

Zerofit’s most luxurious product, offering the benefit of incredible warmth but with a gentler feel against the skin. The Merino is three times warmer than a standard base layer, and offers excellent humidity control to absorb sweat and dry quickly to eliminate any ‘cold sweat’.

Temp range -10°C to 10°C | Material 75% wool, 17% acrylic, 8% polyurethane

Thermo Weave £55

Thermo Weave utilises polypropylene tech to form an efficient heat-insulating layer of air on the skin, while its stretchable nature ensures no gaps between it and the wearer. A polygiene antibacterial process removes unpleasant odours, wash after wash.The Flex Collar at the rear of the ankle cuff increases the ankle’s rear range of motion, offering more comfort during descents.

Temp range 0-15°C | Material 54% nylon, 46% polyester (body); 82% polyester, 18% polyurethane (sleeve)

Heatrub Move £40

This fabric offers more freedom of movement than some of the warmer layers, but still provides twice the warmth of a standard base layer. The 2-layer construction moves sweat from the skin, while the hollow polyester design quickens moisture evaporation.

Temp range -5°C to 12°C | Material 55% polyester, 45% polyproplene, 5% polyurethane

Cool Weave £50

As the temperature increases, the Cool Weave’s water-absorbing polymer shrinks to diffuse sweat, promoting evaporation and creating a cooling effect. The arms and neck have a UPF50+ rating.

Temp range 15-35°C | Material 54% nylon, 46% polyester (body); 82% polyester, 18% polyurethane (sleeve)

Zero Weave £60

Ultra-fine fibres combine with extra-large pores in the knitted mesh structure to remove sweat more efficiently than any other Zerofit product. The arms and neck area use a finer knit to limit the effects of the sun’s UV rays.

Temp range 20-40°C | Material 93% nylon, 7% polyurethane

Cold Skin £40

This fabric absorbs heat and spreads it over the body surface, cooling the wearer. The lightweight material disperses sweat rapidly and provides UPF50+ sun protection.

Temp range 15-40°C | Material 77% nylon, 23% polyurethane (body): 82% polyester, 18% polyurethane (collar/sleeve)

Trail verdict

Whatever the weather there’s a Zerofit base layer that will ensure you stay comfortable and protected.

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