Review: Odlo Blackcomb Evolution winter base layers

I’ve been tearing around the Austrian pistes and the Welsh mountains in Odlo’s Blackcomb Evolution range of winter sport underwear, partly made from recyclable materials. I tested out the long baselayer pants (£65) and baselayer shirt (£65). Cosy, comfy and saving the planet – I’m a big fan.

Product description: Stylish, tailored and multi-functional, the Blackcomb Evolution Warm women’s base layers worn next to the skin will keep you warm, protected and sweat free whatever ski or other activities you are undertaking in the great outdoors. Comfort across a wide range of body movements is fully assured through the use of seamless knitting technology. If you’re out in the snow or cold for sustained periods this superior base layer really comes into its own with its perfect thermal insulation providing a long-lasting barrier to the elements. What’s more, no matter how energetic you are, you don’t need to worry about sweat and the odours associated with it as the fabric contains Effect by Odlo – special odour inhibiting fibres woven into the fabric, combined with perfect breathability.

In the mountains: I wore my Odlo gear head to toe whilst skiing in a blizzard in St Anton and in wind-chilled sunshine in Tignes. Instantly comfortable once on, the Blackcomb top and pants mold to your muscles and don’t dig in at the waist. And, magically, they really do keep you warm without overheating, and I felt cosy on chairlifts whist snow whipped at my face but didn’t suffer on a hot bluebird day of bright sunshine. I simply didn’t notice I was wearing my Odlo masterpieces, until I wore a different pair of thermals for one day of skiing and most definitely felt the cold. Plus Odlo’s odour magic really does seem to work, and they can endure a few days of hard ski touring before they need a wash.

Out in cold weather: Whilst I’m all for the great outdoors even I get grumpy when standing about in subzero temperatures getting rained on, so I was not hugely looking forward to a recent video shoot in the chilly North Wales hills. I wore my base layers under jeans and a fleece and coat and they kept me far warmer than my usual leggings without restricting mobility.

Verdict: Top marks. These are base layers so comfy you’ll forget you’re wearing them whilst they go to work behind the scenes to keep you warm all day. Plus they look fantastic, with ribbed panelling and a cool leopard print vibe going on. Whilst there are decent base layers about for less than the Blackcomb range if you’re on a budget, if you’re after quality these babies are definitely worth splashing out on – they’re an all-purpose set that will last many a winter. Check out Odlo’s full range of underwear for more.

Off skiing? Read my guide to layering up for winter sports.