Question 1

What is a base layer?

Accepted Answer

A base layer is the first garment you put on — the layer that sits directly against your skin. Its job is to manage your body temperature and moisture as you move, keeping you warm when you are still and comfortable when you are active. Unlike a mid-layer or outer shell, a base layer works by regulating what happens closest to the skin: wicking perspiration away, trapping warmth when you need it and releasing heat when you generate it. For equestrian sport, where you move between periods of intense activity and standing still, a well-chosen base layer makes a significant difference to comfort and performance throughout the day.

Question 2

How should a base layer fit?

Accepted Answer

A base layer should fit close to the body — snug but not restrictive. It needs to sit against the skin to manage moisture and temperature effectively; if it is too loose, it cannot do its job. At the same time it should allow full freedom of movement in every direction. Think of it as a second skin rather than a garment you wear over clothing. All Ona base layers are designed with this in mind: close-fitting, with four-way stretch construction that moves with you rather than against you. If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing up.

Question 3

Merino Wool vs synthetic — what is the difference?

Accepted Answer

Both Merino Wool and synthetic fibres are used in performance base layers, but they work differently and suit different riders. Merino Wool is a natural fibre that regulates temperature, wicks moisture and resists odour without chemical treatments. It does not feel cold or clammy when wet, stays fresh across multiple wears and is naturally soft against the skin. Synthetic fibres — typically polyester or nylon — dry faster and are generally more durable, but they do not regulate temperature as naturally and tend to retain odour over time. For polo players and equestrian riders who value comfort across long days and variable conditions, Merino Wool is the benchmark choice. The Ona base layer collection uses a technical blend of 67% fine Merino Wool, 22% Polyamide and 11% Elastane — combining the natural performance of Merino Wool with the durability of polyamide and the stretch of elastane.

Question 4

Crew neck or quarter-zip — which should I choose?

Accepted Answer

The choice between a crew neck and a quarter-zip comes down to how and where you plan to wear your base layer. The quarter-zip — Howsh for men and Quillah for women — gives you precise temperature control: open the zip between chukkas or during warm-up, close it when you are still or the temperature drops. It is the more versatile option for active riding and polo, where conditions change quickly and you need to regulate your temperature on the move. The crew neck — Selknam, available for women in Blossom, Mist and Lago — is the more considered, lifestyle-oriented choice. It sits as comfortably off the yard as on it, works as a standalone top in cooler months and layers cleanly under a jacket or coat. If your priority is performance and temperature control during play, choose the quarter-zip. If you want a base layer that moves seamlessly between sport and everyday life, choose the crew neck.

Question 5

How do I care for my Ona base layer?

Accepted Answer

Care depends on which style you have. Howsh and Quillah are made from superwash Merino Wool — a specialist treatment that makes them fully machine washable without shrinkage or loss of shape. Machine wash at 30°C on a gentle or wool cycle and lay flat to dry. Do not tumble dry. Selknam uses a non-superwash Merino Wool — a finer, softer fibre that requires more gentle handling. We recommend washing Selknam on a wool cycle inside a mesh garment bag, or handwashing in lukewarm water with a specialist wool detergent such as Woolite. Lay flat to dry, do not wring, and store folded rather than on a hanger. For all three styles: do not bleach, and cool iron on the reverse if needed.

Base Layers

Selknam Women’s Crew Neck Lago

Selknam Women’s Crew Neck Mist

Selknam Women’s Crew Neck Blossom

Quillah Women’s Zip Base Layer

Howsh Men’s Zip Base Layer

Base Layers FAQs

What is a base layer?

How should a base layer fit?

Merino Wool vs synthetic — what is the difference?

Crew neck or quarter-zip — which should I choose?

How do I care for my Ona base layer?

Customer reviews