Odlo, specialist in base layers

From Norway in 1946 to Switzerland

Odlo was founded in 1946 in Norway by Odd Roar Lofterød, whose first two letters of his first name and last name formed the brand's name. In 1963, it designed a Helanca synthetic fibre suit for cross-country skiers and speed skaters, worn the following year by the Norwegian ski team at the Innsbruck Games. The brand is among the pioneers of functional underwear made entirely from synthetic materials, capable of wicking away sweat. Now based in Switzerland, it remains a reference for base layers, from cross-country skiing to running.

The three-layer system

Odlo's textiles follow the principle of the three layers, the foundation of sports endurance clothing. The base layer, close to the body, wicks sweat away to keep the skin dry. The second layer, a thicker long-sleeve top or a light fleece, provides insulation and retains heat. The third layer, windproof or waterproof, protects against gusts and rain. When running, these layers are combined based on the temperature and intensity, starting a bit cool: the body quickly generates heat, and an extra layer ends up wrapped around the waist after two kilometres.

Zeroweight, Ceramicool and winter accessories

For summer and quick sessions, the Zeroweight range from Odlo keeps details to a minimum for lightness, and the Ceramicool technology, incorporated into some t-shirts and vests, cools the skin's surface while wicking moisture away. In winter, warm base layers, headbands, and hats take over, like the Move Light headband or the Polyknit hat, which cover the ears without making the head sweat. The technical fabric can be washed at thirty degrees, without fabric softeners that clog the fibres, and should be air-dried, away from the radiator.

Other brands

Other brands, adidas, Asics, Nike, New Balance, Puma, Mizuno, Reebok, Gore, are all gathered on the brands page. Gore is another reference for technical running textiles.

New products and great deals

The new arrivals showcase the latest releases, the sales feature discounted items, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The good deals, clearance, sales, and Black Friday have their running page.

Frequently asked questions

Which Odlo shorts to choose for running?

A light short with side slits, made from quick-drying fabric, allows free movement on short runs and interval training. Two-in-one models, with integrated shorts, prevent chafing between the thighs on long distances.

Running jacket Odlo: windproof or waterproof?

The windproof jacket, light and breathable, rolls up into a pocket and is sufficient for dry and breezy weather. The waterproof jacket, with sealed seams, protects in heavy rain but is less breathable: reserve it for downpour runs.

Do you need gloves to run in winter?

Hands cool down quickly as blood flows to the leg muscles. Thin, breathable gloves are fine until around zero degrees; you can take them off and tuck them in a pocket once your body heats up.

Why avoid cotton for running?

Cotton absorbs sweat and holds it against the skin: the t-shirt becomes heavy, clings, and cools the body as soon as you slow down. A technical mesh like that from Odlo wicks moisture away and dries in a few minutes.

Long-sleeve top or t-shirt and arm sleeves?

The long-sleeve top insulates the entire arm as one, ideal for temperatures under ten degrees. The t-shirt paired with arm sleeves is adjustable during a run: you can pull them down to the wrists as soon as you get warm.