In the world of winter fashion, coats and jackets always get the spotlight. Considering that they’re the most visible part of an outfit, it makes sense. But the real truth is that it’s the layers underneath the coat that are actually keeping you from turning into a shivering, frozen-over version of yourself.
Winter layering tees are the MVPs of any cold-weather wardrobe. And now that colder temps are a regular part of the daily forecast, it’s high time to get your closet in order and treat yourself to a few new layering tees.
However, you shouldn’t have to spend your free time browsing online for the perfect style and fit, which is why we’ve taken to the internet to round up the 10 best long sleeve tee and t-shirt styles money can buy.
Why Shop Our Best Winter Layering Tees
Here’s why: we use data (not hearsay) to determine which products deserve the title of “best.” With the help of our ranking algorithm and information from reviews, social media buzz, industry reports, and best seller lists, we find and score products in order to build our Top 10 lists. We do this to make your shopping experience as simple as possible, and considering the fact that the difference between a good base layer and a bad one can determine whether you’re comfortable while out walking in a winter wonderland, it’s a pretty important job. So, grab your hot cocoa and get cozy, because we’re about to introduce you to the 10 best winter layering tees on the internet.
November 28, 2022
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Icebreaker Oasis Long Sleeve Merino Wool Base Layer Tee
Overall Score
4.15
10
Icebreaker Oasis Long Sleeve Merino Wool Base Layer Tee
4.8
1759 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Splurge
NOTABLE DETAILS
When it comes to base layer clothing for cold weather, merino wool is a top-choice material. In addition to providing insulation, it wicks away moisture and has anti-static properties, which is ideal if you’re planning on layering a sweater or coat on top of it.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
If you’re looking for a base layer that’s down to hit the trails with you, Icebreaker’s Oasis Tee is up for the challenge. Its offset shoulder seams are designed to prevent pack rub, so you can wear it while hiking to a backcountry campsite and still arrive warm and comfortable.
More Colors
Splendid 1X1 Crewneck Tee
Overall Score
4.3
09
Splendid 1X1 Crewneck Tee
4.14
110 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lightweight
NOTABLE DETAILS
Splendid’s 1X1 Crewneck Tee is made from Supima cotton, a fiber known for its premium strength, softness, and color retention. You can currently only purchase this thin layering tee in black and white, but we’re crossing our fingers that they’ll release more colors soon.
USER REVIEW
“I get this tee every season. It’s the perfect fit and length and runs true to size. It’s hard finding the right shirt to go with everything, but this is the best one! I wish it came in more colors!”
More Colors
Uniqlo HEATTECH Wool Blend Crew Neck Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Overall Score
4.35
08
Uniqlo HEATTECH Wool Blend Crew Neck Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
0
0 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Warmth
NOTABLE DETAILS
Uniqlo’s HEATTECH is the secret behind their warmest base layers for cold weather. At first feel, you might think this wool blend is too thin to take on a blustery forecast, but don’t write it off until you give it a try.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
Uniqlo designed this long sleeve tee in tandem with the Japanese womenswear brand Mame Kurogouchi. This collaboration is the reason why this style features subtle details such as the high, narrow crew neck and flattering asymmetrical hem.
More Colors
Everlane The Organic Cotton Long-Sleeve Crew
Overall Score
4.35
07
Everlane The Organic Cotton Long-Sleeve Crew
4.3
203 User Reviews
2.7
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Sustainable
WHAT TO LOVE
Elevated, classic styles are Everlane’s bread and butter. That’s why it’s no surprise to see The Organic Cotton Long-Sleeve Crew on our list. Plus, not only is the cotton fabric blend breathable and lightweight, but it’s also crafted in a sustainable factory.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
With stunning nature-inspired colors like Kambaba, Mist, and Charcoal, there’s no reason not to take this opportunity to stock up on high-quality layering tops.
More Colors
J.Crew Perfect-Fit Long-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt
Overall Score
4.35
06
J.Crew Perfect-Fit Long-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt
4.3
745 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Colors
NOTABLE DETAILS
If you’re looking for women’s long sleeve shirts for layering that come in various colors, J. Crew has you covered. You can snag the Perfect-Fit Long-sleeve Crewneck T-shirt in 14 different shades (plus two striped versions) in sizes from XXS to 3XL.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
According to J.Crew’s website, this t-shirt tends to run small. That’s probably okay if you’re planning on using it as a base layer, but if you see yourself wearing it by itself, you may want to size up.
More Colors
Inclusive
Banana Republic Fitted Ribbed Crew-Neck T-Shirt
Overall Score
4.35
05
Banana Republic Fitted Ribbed Crew-Neck T-Shirt
4.7
361 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Ribbed
WHAT TO LOVE
There’s really nothing better than slipping on a super-soft, stretchy, ribbed long sleeve t-shirt when it’s chilly out. Banana Republic’s new line of layering tops is designed to deliver classic style and ultimate comfort, and we’re just thrilled to see they come in seven different colors as well as petite sizes.
USER REVIEW
“This is a perfect shirt for almost anything. I've worn it with a pair of joggers, as well as with jeans and with dress pants. I even dressed it up with a belt and blazer. This long sleeve t-shirt is a must-have addition to your wardrobe. Extremely comfortable and classy.”
More Colors
Caslon Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Cotton Tee
Overall Score
4.4
04
Caslon Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Cotton Tee
4.5
407 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Scoop Neck
NOTABLE DETAILS
Described as a “layer-friendly superstar,” Caslon’s Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Cotton Tee is surprisingly lightweight for base layer clothing for cold weather. Also, Nordstrom shares that this style runs small, so order a size up from your usual if you’re worried about feeling restricted.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
This shirt is semi-sheer, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on wearing it without another layer on top.
More Colors
Halogen Long Sleeve Tee
Best Long
NOTABLE DETAILS
The best layering tees are the ones you forget you’re wearing, and that’s exactly the experience Halogen’s Long Sleeve Tee is designed to give you. Made with tissue-weight Modal, this style is baby-soft and breathable—in fact, you’ll probably want to fall asleep in it.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
Like the lightweight style from Caslon featured above, this tee runs small and sheer. Reviewers also mention that the hem runs long, which should be okay if you plan on tucking it in or layering it under an oversized sweater.
More Colors
Old Navy Plush Long-Sleeve Rib-Knit Slim-Fit T-Shirt
Overall Score
4.65
02
Old Navy Plush Long-Sleeve Rib-Knit Slim-Fit T-Shirt
4.7
2277 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Budget
WHAT TO LOVE
No one is shocked to learn that Old Navy makes some of the best women’s long sleeve shirts for layering. This style features a ribbed knit blend and has a crew neckline and a hip-length hem. It comes in regular, tall, and petite sizes, as well as 15 different colors. And here’s a tip: they also make a scoop-neck version of this style.
USER REVIEW
Over 2,000 shoppers have given this style a 5-star review. Here’s one that covers all of the highlights: “It's the perfect layering knit top. It has a nice, slim fit since it's ribbed. It's also very soft and comes in so many color options that I bought it in three colors.”
More Colors
Inclusive
Gap Modern Crewneck T-Shirt
Overall Score
4.65
01
Gap Modern Crewneck T-Shirt
4.7
3008 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Overall
NOTABLE DETAILS
Taking the top spot on our list of the best base layers for cold weather is Gap’s Modern Crewneck T-Shirt. While its silhouette is simple, this style has a certain je ne sais quoi that comes from the flattering drape of the fabric.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
So, how much hype has this tee induced? Approximately 2,500 5-star reviews (and counting). One reviewer sums up its greatness like this: “Honestly, it is hard to find a basic long sleeve tee that forms to your body, is soft, and is also a great length. You never find all three in one shirt, but with this one, you do.”
More Colors
The Latest
From Our Partners