Bamboo undershirts as a base layer on site and in frost

Short answer: Bamboo undershirts are a soft base layer that sits close to the skin under work clothes and a winter jacket. They work best as part of several layers, where each layer has its own job. Here is practical advice for the building site, frosty days and long hours outdoors.

Why the base layer matters on a building site

The base layer is the one closest to the skin, and you feel it all day. On a building site you move, lift and stand still in turns, so a soft layer without harsh seams makes the day more comfortable. Bamboo undershirts are made of viscose from bamboo, which many people find smooth and soft against the skin.

The undershirt under your work clothes

Under work clothes the base layer should be close enough not to bunch under shirts and jumpers, but not so tight that it irritates. Bamboo undershirts for men are a good starting point here, because they are often cut to sit as an even layer under the rest of the clothes and do not ride up.

Layering in frost step by step

In frost, layering works best if you think in three steps. The first layer is the undershirt, the second is a warm jumper or sweatshirt, and the third is a jacket that keeps wind and rain out. Keep the layers loose enough to move in, so your arms do not get stiff.

When you sweat and how to change layers

If you work hard you will sweat, and moisture feels cold when you stand still. Bring an extra undershirt and change at the break. Standing in damp clothes for a long time in the cold is unpleasant. A dry change at lunch makes the whole afternoon better.

Neck, sleeves and length of the undershirt

Choose an undershirt that is long enough to stay tucked in when you bend. The sleeves should fit under the sleeves of the jumper without showing. For very cold weather, long sleeve models give more coverage over arms and wrists, and the neckline should not be so loose that the cold gets in.

Underwear and socks are part of the system

The base layer is more than the upper body. A pair of bamboo boxer briefs and thicker socks help the legs stay dry and comfortable too. Avoid letting the briefs and undershirt have very different lengths, so no gap appears in the middle of your back when you bend or crawl.

Washing and care after a hard day at work

After a long day the undershirts should be washed before they are worn again. Follow the care label and avoid very high heat, which can make viscose shrink. Wash them with clothes of the same colour and air them between washes. With several undershirts they last longer, because they are not worn every day.

How many undershirts you need

On a five day working week it is wise to have at least three to five undershirts, so you are not stuck waiting for the laundry. Also think about a spare in the bag for days when the weather changes. A small pile of bamboo undershirts in the drawer makes mornings easier, and you avoid hunting for something that fits.

Frequently asked questions

Are bamboo undershirts good as a base layer?

Many people find viscose from bamboo soft and pleasant against the skin, and the undershirt works well as a base layer under a jumper and jacket. How well it suits you depends on fit, weather and activity.

How many layers do I need in frost?

Three layers are a good starting point. An undershirt as the first, a warm jumper as the second and a jacket as the third. Adjust to how active you are, and change into dry clothes if you sweat.

Should the undershirt fit tightly?

It should be close enough not to bunch under work clothes, without being tight. Choose a length that stays tucked in when you bend, and sleeves that do not show under the jumper.