Baselayers

Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottom

John Brown

• 3 min read
Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottom
The Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottom uses Torrent 190 fleece with Polygiene odor-control for cool-weather base-layering below the waist. These pair with the Rho LT Zip Neck for a complete base layer system in matching fabric and performance. The stretchy construction moves with your body during skiing, hiking, and other activities without restricting the range of motion. I wear these under ski pants when temperatures drop below 30°F or when I know I'll be on cold chairlifts for extended periods. The Torrent fleece adds warmth without bulk, and the Polygiene treatment helps keep odor manageable on multi-day ski trips. The brushed interior feels soft against the skin, making it comfortable enough for extended wear.

Torrent 190 Fleece with Polygiene Odor Control

The Torrent 190 fabric matches the Rho LT Zip Neck construction with a brushed fleece interior and smooth exterior. The 190 weight designation indicates a midweight fleece suitable for temperatures from 15-40°F, depending on activity level and outer layers. The fabric wicks moisture away from skin during high-output activities. Polygiene odor control uses silver salt technology to prevent bacterial growth. This extends wear between washes on backcountry trips where laundry isn't available. Arc'teryx designed these with flatlock seams that sit smoothly against skin and prevent chafing during repetitive leg movements like skiing and hiking.

How Do the Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms Fit?

The trim athletic fit hugs your legs without compression. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I wear a size L with room for a thin liner underneath if needed. The fit layers smoothly under ski pants and hiking pants without bunching at the knees or ankles. The waistband sits at the natural waist with enough stretch to stay in place without being too tight. The leg length reaches the ankle with a slight extra length that tucks into socks or sits comfortably inside boots. The smooth exterior slides easily under outer layers without grabbing the lining of ski pants.

Best Below 30 Degrees Under Ski Pants

These work best as cold-weather baselayers under insulated or shell pants. For resort skiing, I add them when temperatures drop below 30°F or when wind chill makes chairlift exposure uncomfortable. For backcountry touring, they often stay in the pack during climbs and come out for transitions and descents. As a standalone piece for indoor use, the Rho LT Bottom works for lounging in cold cabins or under jeans during winter travel. The smooth exterior and trim fit don't add bulk under casual pants. The Polygiene treatment makes them practical for multi-day use during travel.

Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottom vs. Patagonia Capilene

The Rho AR line uses heavier Torrent 230 fabric for colder conditions. Arc'teryx doesn't make a Rho AR Bottom, so the LT version handles most cold-weather needs. For extreme cold, adding merino underneath boosts warmth without switching systems. The Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms offer similar performance at a lower price. The Arc'teryx Torrent fleece feels softer and layers more smoothly, but both handle the same use cases effectively.

Cold-Weather Baselayer That Pairs with the Rho System

For a dedicated cold-weather baselayer that pairs with the Rho LT Zip Neck system, the Rho LT Bottom delivers. The Polygiene odor-control extends wear between washes, and the Torrent fleece maintains softness through repeated washes. The trim fit layers efficiently under technical pants. The price reflects Arc'teryx premium positioning. For occasional cold-weather use, cheaper midweight bottoms work adequately. For regular use in skiing and winter hiking, the Rho LT's comfort and durability justify the investment. For the complete system, see the Rho LT Zip Neck and Rho Toque. The best beanies for skiing covers headwear options for cold days.