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The best of the best! We roundup the best golf base layers for 2026
When it comes to maintaining your performance on the golf course, the right gear can make all the difference. Among the most essential items in any golfer’s wardrobe are base layers, which provide the perfect foundation for comfort, temperature regulation, and mobility throughout your game.
As the seasons change and temperatures fluctuate, having high-quality base layers becomes crucial to maintaining comfort during an Autumn/Winter round of golf.
In our guide to the best golf base layers 2026, we’ll explore a variety of options designed to keep you warm whilst ensuring maximum breathability and flexibility during your swing.
What are the top contenders in the golf base layer market? Read on to discover which base layers will help you stay comfortable and confident on the course, no matter the weather conditions.
Similar to my approach to mitts, I have also been ambivalent to base layers in the past. I have found them too tight, and I would much rather wear thicker layers, as opposed to using one of these skintight numbers to keep warm. However, the Puma Cloudspun Tech Baselayer has a very athletic feel. I felt like an athlete while I was wearing (I crashed back down to earth when I started playing golf).
I must say, the top of it where you slot in your head is tight and it required a bit of force to get through. But, this was the only downside to wearing this baselayer. It was a pleasant surprise and a feeling of golf clothing that I haven’t had for a while. It isn’t overpriced either, which is never a bad thing.
The Callaway Long sleeve base layer incorporates SwingTech for comfort and unrestricted movement as well as Opti Dri technology to help wick away moisture from your body. It has a reasonably substantial thickness to it making it very warm. The aforementioned tech makes swinging a breeze and uninhibited. We all know layering up is the way to go to keep warm on the course in the winter and this top from Callaway is a great place to start.
Oscar Jacobson have released the Hampton baselayer as part of their Autumn/Winter collection. A garment not everyone would consider but well worth having a look.
The Hampton is available in three colourways, a plain white, then a camouflage Navy and Black design. I am taking a look at the black camouflage version which looks great. The pattern is subtle but noticeable adding some character to the garment.
It is very comfortable to wear and you can feel the warmth of the item straight away. It is a thick material so my one comment would be it is very tight to your body, this isn’t negative feedback by any means, but it may be worth considering if you prefer a slightly lighter feel of garment.
If you’re heading on a golf trip, perhaps with some form of Links golf and its unpredictable weather on the agenda, this would go straight into my bag. A no brainer for a cold day, and with it rolling up very small, there’s no harm in packing it.
PROS
Smart style
Very warm
CONS
If you prefer a looser fit baselayer this may not be the option for you
The humble base layer is the essential building block of any layering system. The Spin longsleeve from Abacus is made from 100% polyester Drycool fabric, which is breathable, stretchy and wicking – all the attributes you want from a base layer.
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Abacus base and mid layers tend to run true to size for me and the medium size fitted my non-athletic 74kg, 173 cm frame just right. I’m not a fan of the close compression type of layer so this more relaxed cut suited me well. The turtleneck collar helps keep the warmth in, and the body and sleeve lengths are spot on.
On the course, the Spin behaves just as you’d hope. It is comfortable and there’s no restriction to swinging. There’s nothing not to like about this piece of apparel.
It comes in a choice of four colours – I tested the navy. It can be used for a variety of outdoor activities and is very good value.
This long sleeve base layer from FootJoy is constructed from a hexagonal pattern Jacquard polyester weave which provides excellent breathability and wicking.
The medium size fitted my non-athletic 74kg, 173 cm frame just right. The so-called ‘golf compression fit’ gave no great sense of compression, which for me, is a good thing, and there was certainly no restriction while swinging.
I felt that the neck could do with a slightly higher rise to improve heat retention, and the body felt to be a little on the short side. I like a base layer that stays tucked in.
Other than that, this ThermoSeries base layer performed really well and is particularly comfortable next to the skin, with no chafing from the lock stitch seam.
It comes in just one colour, a crisp white, and is suitable for a variety of cool weather outdoor activities.
I have to say that out of all the items tested this winter this item surprised me the most.
When unboxing the item and feeling it for the first time I was left somewhat perplexed. I do wear a base layer when it gets to winter golf and this was like no other base layer I had felt or seen before. My usual base layers are stretchy and thin whereas this was thicker, more like a light jumper, and had a furry inner lining. I therefore was not expecting much before I put it on and was concerned it might be a little itchy and overly warm.
How wrong was I? Firstly, putting it on was a doddle and did not have fight to put it on. Secondly, the inner lining caused no itchiness what so ever. Thirdly, and most importantly for me, it kept me warm but at no point was I overheating or sweating.
Out on the course there was freedom of movement to my swing – though thicker than a usual base layer there is stretch and give in it.
It seemed to somehow regulate my temperature whereby sweating was never an issue. I also liked how it fitted round my neck, not too tight and not too loose. As such I concur that the Japanese patented heatrub technology – the furry lining – worked for me.
The final test was getting it off. For me, and it might just be me, sometimes getting a base layer off can be a bit of a challenge due the tightness and stretchiness. For those who know what I am talking about you will know what I mean! You will be glad to know that the Zerofit Ultimate base layer passed with flying colours with the getting off test. So much so, I think it should be renamed the FitsAll Ultimate base layer.
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I was so intrigued by this item that I put it to the test whilst watching my kids play sports most of the day on a chilly Sunday. The comfort and warmth were still there and I even left it on when I got home. Something I would never do with my usual base layers – I cannot wait to get them off!
So, for these reasons it is a 5 out of 5 and totally recommend.
PROS
Keeps you warm without over heating or sweating
Easy to get on and off
Did not impede my swing
Versatile – great for other cold outdoor activities
CONS
It is cold if you are having to put it on
RRP – £60 / $75
SIZES: XS-3XL
COLOUR: Black / Forest Green / Grey / Navy / Red / White
When it comes to base layers, Lyle & Scott might not be the first brand that pops into your head.
We all know Lyle & Scott is a fantastic brand, but their base layers are top-notch as well.
The fit of the base layer is great, with sizes ranging from XS to 2XL.
I’m a slim medium, and the medium size fit me perfectly. Sometimes base layers can feel restrictive when you’re swinging, but this one felt like you weren’t even wearing it.
The turtleneck is just the right height, not too low or too high. Made from a polyester-elastane blend with 4-way stretch, it’s really good value for the money. Plus, the classic eagle logo on the neck adds a stylish touch and this base layer provides that extra layer of warmth on chilly days.
The only thing I was not keen on was the large Lyle & Scott lettering down the left arm – but this is just personal taste as I generally prefer more subtle branding.
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But overall, I was impressed with the base layer and would definitely recommend giving it a try.
Base layers are an essential key to your winter layering. A thin warm layer below your thicker and more weatherproof layers makes keeping warm and playing golf in autumn and winter much more enjoyable.
The Stuburt Knot base layer is a nylon, polyester and elastane mix that creates an unrestrictive garment that feels great next to the skin and doesn’t impede the swing at all.
I would have preferred it to be slightly stretchier to make it easier to get on and off, but once it is on it’s a snug fit that feels like another layer of skin.
The colours are simple and the logo looks great on the neck, for this price, it is excellent value for money.
I feel like most base layers are all about comfort. I’ve struggled in the past to find one that is comfortable and that doesn’t itch, when I get warm during a round.
During testing, I had absolutely no issue with any discomfort or itching. I feel as though the neck of a base layer can often be too tight, but this was just right. Although, its designed to offer a tighter compression fit against the skin it wasn’t tight enough to restrict any movement on the arms or the torso. Performance isn’t hindered for more warmth.
I think the styling is great. The black version can go with any coloured polo or trousers, so it really is versatile in its wear. It can also easily be used away from the golf course in any other active sport – I often dual used base layers for football and running.
Having a four-way stretch really provides that ultra-warmth feel.
PROS
Comfortable fit
Great insulation
Sleek styling
CONS
None
RRP – £50 / $55
SIZES: S-2XL – 4XL in the US
COLOUR: Black / Charcoal Light Heather / White / Dark Green / Navy
The Hamilton base layer is a great option for any golfer looking to brave the winter golf. There is multiple colours available, and it fits great under your other winter garments.
Made from a lightweight technical fabric blend making it very comfortable and soft along with perfect mobility on your golf swing. I barely noticed I was wearing it when out on the golf course nor the chilly temperatures we played in. It is also looks very smart with a variety of golf apparel so can be combined with multiple layers or a single polo if you don’t like wearing jackets or jumpers when you play.
The Oscar Jacobson branding is also cleverly placed, easy to see what brand it is without being too invasive on the eye.
Overall, it was ideal for a base layer. A great option for when it is particularly chilly, looks really smart, and felt comfortable.
Everyone should have a good base layer. I’ve previously shied away from them as owning a few poor ones has led me to having to pull it down and adjust it after every shot became too much of a pain, so I just opted to wear more baggy layers instead.
The Adidas base layer gave me no such problems, and I’m more than happy to recommend it. It’s thick and warm, easier to get on and off than previous base layers I’ve owned, and it stays in place when you swing.
They are a pretty essential item to have on during winter as they allow you to wear less bulky layers keeping your swing free and your drives long.
I like the logo on the neck and the forearms are tight enough and the right length. Highly recommend.
In conclusion, investing in the right golf base layers can significantly enhance your performance on the course, regardless of the weather conditions.
As we’ve explored, the best golf base layers 2026 offer a combination of comfort, breathability, and advanced fabric technology to keep you warm and dry during your round.
Whether you prefer lightweight options for cooler days or thicker, insulated layers for chilly rounds, there’s something on the market to suit every golfer’s needs.
Remember, the key to quality golf lies not just in your clubs and swing but also in how well you can adapt to your playing environment. By choosing high-quality base layers, you’ll stay comfortable, dry, and warm throughout your game.
