Remember those moments when the sweat turns cold?
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Hiking or Trail running uphill.
The higher we go, the colder it gets.
I stop for a break, slip off the pack.
My back is soaked, my shirt sticks, and the wind brings an instant chill I can’t ignore.
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Ski touring up to the ridge.
I stop to pull the skins, ready to drop in.
My base layer is soaked, the chill cuts deep, but I push forward. Changing base layer here isn’t realistic.
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Climbing after a long, heavy approach.
My back is soaked, I stand still to belay, and the cold sinks deep into the core.
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Kayaking in a drysuit.
Heat builds inside, cold presses from the waterline, and I wish I could stay dry underneath too.
All too familier? Those chills sap our energy, steal the fun, and make us wonder if it’s even safe to continue.
The Problems and the Solution
Wet Body = Lost Energy
Sweating is inevitable. But when skin stays in contact with sweat or damp fabric, body heat drains away. The chill sets in, energy fades, and in the worst case, hypothermia becomes a risk.
No matter how warm the insulation, if your skin is wet, you’ll still be cold.
Facts:
- We sweat more than 2L on a single hike.
- Higher elevation and stronger winds drop temperature rapidly.
- Water pulls heat from the body 25× faster than air.
Base Layers Have Their Limit
Base layers wick and dry sweat, and modern fabrics have come a long way. But even the best takes about 70 minutes to fully dry.
During that time, your body stays in contact with damp fabric. It feels uncomfortable, drains warmth, and costs energy.
Traditionally, the only answer was to carry a spare base layer. In harsh conditions, though, changing simply isn’t realistic.
The key is to keep skin dry from moisture So we tried a different approach
Introducing the Elemental Layer
The world’s first water-repellent underwear, worn next to skin under your base layer.
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Water Repellency Keeps You Dry
The Elemental Layer® fabric repels water, creating a barrier between your skin and the damp base layer.
While your base layer works to wick and dry sweat, the Elemental Layer® protects your skin from that moisture. Keeping you drier, warmer, and more comfortable.
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Ultra-Thin, Ultra-Light Mesh
Tiny mesh openings let sweat pass quickly to the base layer.
Thin, soft, and light, it feels almost unnoticeable against your skin.
And with less need for a spare base layer, your pack gets lighter too.
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Keeps Sweat Odor Away
No more worrying about smell on multi-day adventures.
Antibacterial, fast-drying fabric slows bacteria growth.
Less bacteria, less odor, so you stay fresh on the trail.
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Made in Japan Quality
Knitting underwear this thin isn’t easy, and every detail matters. From spinning the yarn to sewing the final piece, it’s all proudly crafted in Japan.
Thermography Proof
[Left] Base layer only [Right] With Elemental Layer®
Staying Dry means saving body heat
Under the base layer, Elemental Layer® shields your skin from damp fabric It keeps warmth in, shivers out, and energy strong—so you can move with confidence.
Comfort, warmth, and safety all start with staying dry
Trusted by professionals
Elemental Layer is really helping me keep my body dry after long hikes in the backcountry, so I can focus on skiing without freezing.
Yu Sasaki
Professional Skier
I love the Elemental Layer. I used to ALWAYS change into a separate dry base layer (for example for downclimbing once I reached the peak), but with the Elemental layer this is not necessary anymore.
Helene Steiner
IFMGA Mountain Guide
I love the finetrack layers! They have been a game changer for my comfort and confidence!
Erin
CSGA guide and instructor/ CAA professional member
Using it for Climbing, Ice Climbing, Backcountry Skiing in all weather conditions (Temp. -30℃ to -5℃, Elevation 1500-3500m). It keeps my body dry and comfortable in situations where I am forced to stay still after sweating, like belaying or staying overnight after a long approach.
Takeshi Tani
IFMGA/ACMG Mountain Guide
I’ve used my fine track under layer for XC Skiing, Biking, Mountain Running and downhill skiing.
Libby Goulding
Mountain Runner
The Elemental layer really helps transport moisture away from your skin and keep you dry. This extra layer next to your skin in this environment doesn't cause overheating, and really helps keep you dry, which is critical to staying warm when your output level drops.
Christian Schlumpf
ACMG Apprentice Alpine Guide, Apprentice Ski Guide
Q: Is it different from base layers?
A: Yes. They serve opposite functions but work together as a system.
Base layers wick and dry sweat, while Elemental Layer® repels moisture to keep skin dry.
Q: Can I wear it by itself?
A: Usually not. Elemental Layer® is made to work under a base layer or other moisture-wicking garment. It doesn’t replace a base layer, except in hot, very dry summer conditions when sweat dries quickly on its own.
Q: Is it only for cold temperatures?
A: Not at all. In cooler seasons or high elevations, it keeps the chill away. And in hot summer heat, it makes you feel cooler by creating airflow and stopping your shirt from clinging.
Q: They look tight—will they fit me?
A: They’re designed to be snug for performance, but don’t worry. The fabric stretches easily, so you’ll find your fit.
We’re proud to introduce Elemental Layer®
Hope it becomes a trusted part of your layering system.
Ready to UP your layering game?
Explore the Elemental Layer series Now
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New
New
New
![Women's Elemental Layer Long Sleeve Crew [US Size]](https://www.finetrackglobal.com/dw/image/v2/BFGX_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-storefront-catalog-fin_jp/default/dw77a27f87/images/IUW0401.jpg?sw=810)
![Women's Elemental Layer Long Sleeve Crew [US Size],, medium](https://www.finetrackglobal.com/dw/image/v2/BFGX_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-storefront-catalog-fin_jp/default/dw231106af/images/IUW0401-BK.jpg?sw=810 "Women's Elemental Layer Long Sleeve Crew [US Size],")
New
Explore More of Finetrack’s original Layers
Finetrack’s commitment to innovation extends across all layers of our gear
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[L2] Base Layers
High-performance base layers that wick moisture and dry quickly to keep you comfortable during intense activity. Designed to work with Elemental Layer® for optimal performance.
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[L3] Mid Layers
Our mid layers balance sweat management with insulation, all at lightweight. Explore our original DROUGHT® fabrics and 3D thermal insulation FINEPOLYGON®.
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[L4] Mid Shells
Mid Shells add versatility to your layering system in ever-changing mountain weather. Ultralight, stretchable, waterproof, and breathable.
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[L5] Outer Shells
Stay dry without losing freedom. Our original Everbreath® cross-stretch fabric moves with you, delivering maximum protection and unrestricted comfort. Waterproof, breathable, and built for performance.