Gear Review: SubZero Factor1+ Seamless Thermal Base Layer (Unisex)

I was delighted a while back when I received an email from SubZero, asking if I was able to review their new Factor 1 Plus Unisex Long Sleeve Seamless Base Layer. I’m a sucker for a good base layer, so of course accepted gladly, and I was not disappointed.

Delighted with the soft, cosy fabric as soon as I put it on

The Test Activity – Kayaking

I decided to take this base layer on its test drive whilst kayaking with my dad on 18th February. It was my first paddle of 2018, so to get back into the swing of things we had an enjoyable paddle around our local, the River Tay. Setting off from Tayport Harbour, we were out for around 3 hours, paddling down to Newport-on-Tay during the calm, low-tide, before paddling back against the incoming tide to return to Tayport Harbour.

Initially, whilst the water was deeply calm and still, there was a lot of fog and the conditions were bitterly cold. We spent a lot of time paddling at ease, watching some seals play in the distance, discussing my childhood growing up on the banks of the river, and generally enjoying a relaxing paddle and practising some bracing techniques. Once we hit Newport-on-Tay and decided to turn back, the tide started to come in, and it was time to get up a sweat. Whilst the waves were not large, it’s always a decent workout paddling against the tide! As we approached Tayport Harbour some while later, the heavy rain started, but thankfully this was just as we were approaching our end point.

As soon as I put on this long-sleeved base layer in the morning, I immediately sunk into unbelievable comfort. The feeling of this fabric against my skin is incredible. It is so soft and generous, yet not too big either, which is incredibly important, as base layers need to be close to the skin to do their job. I was immediately warm and did not put any of my other layers on until I was at the harbour and getting ready to set off. As a woman too, it can be hard sometimes to find decent gear that is flattering, but the make of this base layer and the colour are lovely – I had several compliments over the course of the day!

I noticed immediately how flexible the base layer was – something that is of huge importance when kayaking, as you need the least restriction possible in your arms. It sat comfortably under my tshirt, fleece and cag, and kept me warm all morning. Even after our gentle, slightly lazy, paddle from Tayport Harbour to Newport-on-Tay, my dad (who has experienced kayaking in the cold of the Arctic) began to complain he was feeling cold, but I was at optimum comfort warmth, and I hold this base layer accountable for that.

When we were enduring tougher paddling, against the tide, I was obviously working up a decent sweat. Not once did I feel like I was over-heating – the base layer performed well to control my body temperature. I also never once felt sweaty or wet, as it wicked all the moisture away from my skin.

Reaching the end of the paddle, when it was raining heavily, the base layer did not get too wet as I had my cag and fleece on top. But I did notice however than even in the brief time my arms were on show to the rain and ended up damp, my arms dried fast, in the space of the three-minute drive to my mum’s house. I arrived dry as can be.

What was already a great experience testing this base layer, was made even better, as I arrived home to a home-cooked meal from my mum (always a kid at heart!) and immediately sat down to dinner. I was worried I would be sitting at the dinner table smelling to high heavens, but even having had a great workout, I had no need for concern – the base layer had all smells under control too, just as it promised.

If you hadn’t guessed it already, I’m a little bit in love with this SubZero Base Layer! I can’t wait to take it on more kayaking trips, and will definitely be taking it hiking, including to Stok Kangri in September. It retails at £44.99 and you can purchase it here!