Nobody really wants to talk about their underwear, much less be pictured in it. But we’ll make an exception when “underwear” is preceded with the word “long,” and serves as a base layer for our favorite wintertime activity.
Back in my younger years, I regularly wore cotton- or wool-based long underwear when snowmobiling, playing pickup hockey games or working outside. At first, it seemed to keep me warm, but the more active I got, the more miserable I became while wearing it.
This article originally appeared in the October 2025 issue of Snow Goer magazine. That means you could have enjoyed it long ago if you only subscribed! Go ahead and sign up today to get the print or digital edition of the magazine and feed your love of the greatest winter sport ever created.
This article originally appeared in the October 2025 issue of Snow Goer magazine. That means you could have enjoyed it long ago if you only subscribed! Go ahead and sign up today to get the print or digital edition of the magazine and feed your love of the greatest winter sport ever created
Eventually I learned that what I really needed a lighter base layer that didn’t trap sweat moisture against my skin. That led me toward tighter fitting (and more expensive) polypropylene materials. It was a major step in the right direction in moisture management, but I didn’t appreciate the skin-tight fit or the premium prices some brands demanded.
These days, I’ve transitioned to lighter, somewhat looser-fitting base gear – like the Evaporator Base Layer Shirt and Pant from Arctiva, which I wore extensively last winter. I think I’ve finally found my Zen.
Arctiva offers two levels of base layers. The previously tested Regulator is Arctiva’s mid-weight gear made for colder conditions. The Evaporator we used last winter emphasizes breathability and is made for more moderate riding conditions.
Anytime temps were in the teens or above, I reached for the Evaporator set. Its lightweight polyester material was soft against my skin but it also had a somewhat slippery texture, which meant it didn’t bunch up or fight with my mid-layer gear when I wore it.
The official product description from Arctive says the Evaporator gear has a “performance fit.” I’m not exactly sure what that means, but I wore a size XL top and L pant for my 5-foot, 11-inch, 190-pound frame and found it roomy. Honestly, I could have gone down a size on each and still would have been comfortable.
As somebody who sweats easily and often builds up heat while riding, I truly appreciated how this gear wicked moisture away from my skin. That said, there were a couple of long rides where the temperatures dropped dramatically over the course of the day when the gear did leave me with a bit of a chill by the day’s end. For true sub-zero condition riding days, I’d definitely want something heavier, and something with a higher neckline for extra protection.
That caveat aside, I wore the Evaporator gear for more than half of my rides last winter and was very satisfied.
Even more satisfying was the price. At just $20 per piece, it’s some of the most affordable branded base layers on the market. And it’s a lot better than the $20 per piece generic crap you’ll find at big-box retailers.
