cheap base layer

Merino johns and a tee.

You can look around at Moab sports. They usually have close outs on Merino for $20-30.

If you need something cheaper than that you will probably have to settle for a synthetic blend.

I know I'm going to get flamed for this one, but . . .

The best combination of price and warmth (and even weight) comes from a silk base layer. It will start to stink after a few days, but the Thermasilk brand is 1/4 the cost of Capeline or wool, especially if you buy them from one of those Guns 'n Fishin' web sites.

If I'm going to be out only a few days, I always wear the silks. I also have silk glove liners and a silk balaclava. They weigh next to nuthin', and they provide the best warmth to weight to cost ratios I've ever seen.

Stargazer

My suggestion for cheap base is coolmax. It's a decent material that has been licensed to a lot of folks. It's often possible to find tights and shirt for <$10 each at STP, campmor, etc. Coolmax will wick moisture away from your body which is the most important thing a base layer needs to do. Coolmax won't provide much warmth itself (some bases provide moisture management and some warmth) but you can bring appropriate insulation to stay warm.

Stargazer suggested silk… and I know of others who think silk is great as well. My experience is different. I have tried silk, but have been unimpressed with it on the trail. I didn't find it's moisture management compares to a good synthetic, and is didn't add much warmth.

–Mark

Sierrat Trading Post has some good deals, or get the Starter brand at Wallyworld.

I'd check Ross out. I got a Nike "Drifit" T-shirt for about 4 bucks and an off brand (Champion IIRC) long sleeve synthetic for $6. I didn't find any suitable johns there but that doesn't mean you won't as often as their inventory changes.

Not sure how much of a budget, but I love merino, and recently got some Minus33. Whereas an Icebreaker zip-t might run $70, a roughly comparable Minus33 is around $45. I've had great success w/merino boxers; Icebreaker runs ~$35-40, Minus33 is ~$25. I've been quite happy with my Minus33 set so far, but only had them a couple weeks. I have a zip-t on order; we'll see how it is.

If you've hiked in the summer, you may already have a synthetic T-Shirt and shorts. If so, that is your base layer. Add wool, fleece or polypro on top. If you have an Army/Navy (or other) surplus store, go there. You can usually find great deals for all sorts of clothing. I bought a great pair of thick wool gloves along with plenty of stuff that might not be considered standard military gear. Also, try used (Craigs List, etc.). I bought a pair of full zip fleece pants for $20 by shopping at a used outdoor gear store.

I was on campmors site and they have some polypro Duofold for 12$