best merino base layer

2022.07.31
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best merino base layer

However, youll want to ensure the larger base layer is on top so it doesnt fit too tightly. Are they durable or will they rip after a single season? What about mobility? Some tops in our selection stand out for their superb comfort and fit, while a couple leave much to be desired. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Thats why all the base layers listed above are made using pure merino wool. After stopping, we time how long it takes for our skin and the inside of our shirts to dry.

Despite all of the advances this top is making in the world of base layers, it still falls victim to some common pitfalls of full synthetics even casual efforts leave this top smelling as if you just pushed for an FKT. Other metrics, like durability, call for a combination of field use (i.e., chimney climbing and bushwhacking) and lab testing (repeated dry and wash cycles and an abrasion test.) It is important to note that the scores we assign are determined relative to the other products in the review. Well, I find them a little scratchy and quite see-through in the but. To test layering ability, we consider all the ways a top can be layered, and we try all of the combinations with every piece. The half zip makes it more versatile for changing weather conditions. Less, sometimes, is more -- if you're looking to go fast-and-light on your next backpack, think about investing in good base layers that can be worn in a wide-range of temperatures, and allow you to ditch some of your bulkier clothing when the season permits. We try our best to give as subjective of an opinion as possible when considering all the factors that play into a layer's comfort and fit. The thickness of the wool is directly correlated to its durability level, and factors such as quality of production and materials can also affect the durability of a garment. Here is a quick guide: When choosing a merino wool base layer, or for that matter, any base layer, it is best to opt for a snug fit. Weight refers to the weight of the item in a size large. Early bird gets the worm, or a summit bid all to ourselves in this case. And theyve lost some of their form-fitting shape over the years in the booty. The SmartWool Merino 250 shining in its versatility across temperature ranges. When the fabric becomes completely saturated, this top is comparatively slow to dry. It provides better warmth for its weight when compared to synthetic fabrics. Base layers are the foundation of your layering system and are meant to wick away sweat off your body and keep you warm. The Smartwool 250 rules in these environments. You may be surprised to discover that you actually don't have to pay an arm and a leg for a superb Merino wool top. Not only can a sopping top severely inhibit your ability to find happiness and joy, but it can also be downright dangerous under the right conditions. Casual alpine cows. GearLab is reader-supported. The REI Silk Crew is an impressively warm, surprisingly thin layer that can supplement winter wear without adding much bulk. We also aren't impressed with the Smartwool Intraknit 200 Crew's fit, which has unusually long arms, uncomfortably narrow shoulders, and tight-fitting biceps. You can learn more by reading my full disclosure. For a decade, our team of experts has bought and tested 43+ of the best base layers on the market. Though soft, the Merino wool is slightly itchy at first and takes some breaking in (read: responsible washing and drying) before it is snuggly-comfy. You can learn more About Me here. The 250 gsm pair is very warm and great for cold nights at the campsite and an absolute go-to for my long camping trips.

Buy less. When the going gets tough, its important to have a base layer, like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight, that will actively dry out on your body. Shoulder Season (Spring and Autumn) Hiking: This post may contain affiliate links. As expected with natural fibers, this top will begin to slouch and sag a bit through consistent wear. Since base layers fit snug, having an odour-free, moisture-wicking fabric right next to the skin keeps me feeling fresh and warm longer. Instead, Im going to focus on what those details mean for the person wearing the base layers. Is it good for sleeping or hiking or skiing or winter? A quality breathable layer will help regulate your body temperature through a range of environments, regardless of your energy output. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Base layers should adhere to the same purchasing ethics that we apply (or should apply) to all of our consuming habits. So while you may find yourself washing this top more than usual, you can rest assured knowing that the Spectra Long Sleeve won't wear out quickly. This isnt a deal-breaker, as Im usually wearing base layer bottoms underneath other clothing or in my sleeping bag. Required fields are marked *. Fabric weight is the weight of the merino wool fabric itself, measured in grams per square meter (the higher the number, the warmer the fabric). While bad for my wallet, its good for you, as Im going to provide you with a detailed review of five pairs of base layers (tops + bottoms) that I personally own. Our expert for all things comfortable and cozy is Aaron Rice. Download my cookbook now! For a lot of folks, the performance benefits of merino wool outweigh the lack of durability, and if you take proper care of your merino top, it can serve you for a long time. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. In addition to camping and hiking, you can wear the Vertex when skiing as the gusseted underarms enable full mobility. In our abrasion tests, we could barely get this top to show signs of wear. That said, they do have a few flaws. So now I wear merino wool almost exclusively. But if warmth and fit are your top requirements, you can safely rely on the Icebreaker 260 Bottoms and the Vertex for your winter hike. So they definitely arent the best quality leggings, but they get the job done and are significantly cheaper than some of the other base layer bottoms on the list. The Icebreaker Merino 250 Vertex Long Sleeve Half Zip is my most used base layer top for hiking in the winter. This ultra-durable lightweight base layer is built for the rigors of rock climbing but performs equally well as a trail running top or for working hard in the skin track when backcountry skiing. Merino wool claims that it can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet to the touch. In fact, most manufacturers indicate that their wool layers are not dryer safe and instead suggest lying the garments flat to dry. They also tend to hold onto moisture, retain odors over time, and often don't provide the same warmth-to-weight when compared to their natural-fiber companions. For cross-country and backcountry skiing, we would opt for the lightweight layers that still offer a bit of warmth, like the NW Alpine Spectra, or the Outdoor Research Alpine Onset. No sponsored content. The tops that really do a great job of balancing fit and comfort are the SmartWool Merino 250, Patagonia Capilene Air, Icebreaker 200 Oasis, and the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight. A high quality merino wool base layer, like the Meriwool Midweight Thermal, is an investment in your comfort. The job demands a base layer that is able to insulate against frigid, pre-dawn temperatures, and thermoregulate to keep you dry enough to work all daythe perfect job for the SmartWool Merino 250. If you're looking for a technical, lightweight base layer that won't break the bank, have a look at the Outdoor Research Echo L/S. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. Theyre warm and soft and cozy and perfect for the wilderness (and nice to wear around the house). A breathable shirt will allow the moist air hovering over your skin to escape through the material without saturating the fabric, thus keeping you warm and dry. So it is particularly unfortunate that this prized piece is also susceptible to damage by abrasion. Merino wool fabric is made in different weights, measured in grams per square meter. Synthetic material has the tendency to drop seams after repetitive use, but with no actual damage to the face fabric; flat-lock seams hold the tough Outdoor Research Echo L/S together. In addition to the above, you can consider the following factors as well: Style and Design: Some people just want plain black base layers and thats totally fine. We understand that the individual metrics that are important to some folks may not be as important to others. While we wish that the ActiveFresh odor control did a better job of keeping us smelling fresh, the Echo's small pack size and quick dry time mean we're still going to bring it along on our next expedition trip, no matter the climate. To test durability, we inspect the strength of the fabrics and the quality of the stitching and construction of the pieces as a whole. The four-way stretch makes the top very comfortable, even while moving around. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. We'd like to help! It is not just about simple heat retention but rather the complex system of thermoregulation. Its made from what feels like a thin material and is form-fitting, which makes wearing it under fleece sweaters comfortable. If you plan to push hard uphill whether it's running, ski touring, biking, or climbing you will benefit from the performance of the Outdoor Research Echo L/S. i.e. We wore them as we skinned up windblown ridges in the Northwest, rowed through desolate canyons in the Southwest, slept on the frozen dirt after climbing sunny sandstone cracks, and explored trails by bike and foot in Colorado and New Mexico. The fabric weight reviewed here is 250 gsm, but it also comes in 150 gsm (and I also own that shirt). Ive also worn them as a single layer under snow pants when Ive been winter camping. If I could only have one base layer top thats a tough one. Like the shirt above, these have become reserved for cold night sleeping (and Ive been wearing them less often in favor of the Rose Thermal Leggings and Icebreaker Merino 260 Tech Thermal Bottoms. Durability is paramount for base layers that are going to pull double-duty as standalone shirts for rugged activities like mountain biking. Other factors that contribute to staying power are flatlock seams, which you will find featured on the majority of the layers in this review. Even in freezing weather and my legs stay warm and dry throughout! This highly technical, highly breathable, ultra-lightweight layer is able to easily withstand normal abrasion, rips, and tears, yet it is as soft next-to-skin as merino wool. No matter where it comes from physically or metaphorically a top's ability to dry quickly on the body is important. Consider when and how you plan to use your base layer. The ability to layer well is an often overlooked consideration but is important for practical use in the outdoors. Depending on the situation, a great base layer will effectively work to keep you dry and warm, or dry and cool, depending on how it's designed. Durability is a characteristic that we search for in all of our outdoor gear. From the crag to the mountain and then back down for a night on the town, the SmartWool Merino 250 is comfortable and stylish enough to wear every day. All of these ingredients are essential to a layer's ability to keep you warm and dry through a range of temperatures. And these leggings are one of my favorites right now. Getting the fit right not only ensures comfort and mobility but also keeps you much warmer by preventing unwanted air circulation between your skin and the base layer. Itd also make for a great hiking shirt, I just dont use it for those purposes. The added UPF 15 treatment not only helps protect your skin but also increases the longevity of this already durable crew neck. This seems reasonable, as we have to agitate and compress the wool layers while submerged for the fibers to become saturated a plus if you are planning to wear these layers standalone in wetter, more mild climates. Overall, this is an excellent merino wool base layer top for cold weather. If youve only got the budget for one, choose a lightweight base layer that fits you well and add additional layers for more warmth. Since it fits against the skin so well, its a really good top to wear under other layers, without feeling bulky or causing chaffing. The thick merino fabric makes it the most durable merino layer that we tested. Underarm gussets, combined with the partial spandex construction, certainly improve the reach and general movement of the REI Lightweight Crew. Base layers are typically either made from merino wool or synthetic fabric. Is it loose, letting cold air draft in like a barn door, or is it too tight? Base layers and thermals are the same thing. The broad consensus is that merino wool is, generally speaking, less durable than synthetic fabrics. A top that is likely to earn its place as your go-to for all cold-weather activity, the SmartWool Merino 250 Crew continues to shine in this category. We assess each layer's breathability systematically to back up our findings after months of use hiking, running, skiing, climbing, and biking. When that's not possible, opt for post-consumer products many of the polyester layers included in this review are at least made in some part with recycled fibers. The Black Diamond Solution also fits this mold and is the only layer to incorporate thumb loops. Merino wool has come a long way in terms of durability particularly considering merino wool/polyester blends. The Smartwool Classic Base Layer Top is the best merino long sleeve base layer in my collection (and the first pair of merino wool base layers I ever got, so youve likely read about them in other blog posts). Unlike its synthetic competitors, it somehow manages to be very acceptable stench-wise after many days between washes. Though the brand name and material may both be new to the scene, the two are working in conjunction to set a high bar when it comes to lightweight, technical clothing. This remarkably versatile mid-layer offers superior comfort next-to-skin, and its 100% merino wool weave provides excellent temperature regulation, moisture-wicking capability, and all-natural antimicrobial qualities. Both tend to wear holes through quickly and/or shrink and lose their shape after repeated washings. The top also offers top-notch warmth this is the warmest base layer top on the list and is the best base layer for winter hiking or winter camping. It also keeps the fabric from pilling or being damaged. Looking for a detailed trip report for a canoeing or backpacking route? Personally, I like to wear colorful base layers with patterns. The Patagonia Capilene Air proving its versatility, keeping us cool and comfortable in the fall Utah Sun. For those who work in extremely cold conditions or who normally run on the chilly side you may want to seek out those tops that favor pure warmth over breathability. But they dont shift or ride up when worn under layers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Our head tester is 5'10", 155lbs, wearing a size medium. If a layer excels in all other categories but fits you poorly or is uncomfortable, it won't serve you in your quest to send. We've worn it for days on end, both at home and out on multi-day backcountry trips. The balance between price and value is a fine line to walk when researching a product. How can we improve GearLab? Then we develop appropriate tests to carry out in the field and lab to test each metric individually. I find it doesnt quick sweat away as well as Icebreaker merino wool. An intensely warm top that doesn't breathe well may work for ice fishing, but it will likely leave you dangerously wet and cold during high-output activities like backcountry skiing. From the high desert of the US Southwest to the craggy peaks of the Pacific Northwest, we wore these tops through a variety of activities mountain biking, climbing, uphill and downhill skiing, trail running, backpacking, and more testing and assessing their relative strengths and weaknesses along the way. Its made with high-quality 240 gsm merino wool, making it great for colder months. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Merino wool fibers are naturally antibacterial, which conveniently pairs with their natural ability to wick sweat and dry quickly. Since the fit largely depends on your body type and shape, it is best to try out different brands while giving particular attention to how the base layer fits you at your chest, arms, waist, hips and thighs. We prefer tops with sleeves that don't tend to creep up our arms, and ones with a longer torso that avoids the always undesirable belly exposure. Yes, merino wool can shrink. Im also surprised by the price point; this is the most expensive shirt on the list. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. Despite being pricey, its value will be apparent to guides and ski bums alike particularly because you can actually get away with wearing this layer for multiple days, as our testers proved. I am a sucker for a good set of merino wool base layers. We've tested everything from long underwear and warm fleece jackets to synthetically insulated and down jackets to keep you toasty. Is the fabric soft or scratchy? The bottom has become a little see-through over the years. Synthetic fabrics tend to be less expensive, a touch more durable, and pack down smaller. Coffee warms from the inside, this layer effectively helps keep us warm from the outside. I dont usually wear base layer pants when Im hiking in the summer or shoulder seasons, and in the winter I choose other leggings instead. But I think Id choose the Smartwool Classic Base Layer Top its just so soft! For that reason, you dont need to wear any clothing underneath your base layer. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician. Quality of construction and thoughtful seam patterns are nice design touches that increase comfort as well as mobility. When skiing, we particularly appreciate the ability to keep your top tucked in and snow out of your pants. Its nearly see-through fabric allows for air to pass through it with ease making it extremely versatile for conditions ranging from super cold when layered, to warm weather as a stand-alone layer. The breathability of a garment is determined by how quickly and efficiently a fabric can convert sweat to free water vapor. It sort of has the feeling of a soft jersey cotton sweater, but rest assured, its 100% merino wool. As a result, I own way too many. Mid-layers are intended to add insulation, and a shell helps to keep you protected from the elements. But don't get us wrong, this is not our go-to for warmth. This specific test gives us a very clear idea of how certain tops will hold up to abrasion. Yet in our abrasion test, the thick fabric of the SmartWool Merino 250 Crew displays only surface wear. When Im hiking in colder months, I can use these with a single outer layer (usually winter hiking pants) over top. For our review, we identify six key metrics as essential to effectively grade a base layer top: Warmth, Breathability, Comfort/Fit, Drying Speed, Durability, and Layering Ability. Are they saggy or see-through? If I could only have one set of base layer bottoms surprisingly, I would choose the Kari Traa Rose Leggings. While it excels as a backcountry skiing base layer, this is a great choice for any cold-weather alpine endeavor. As mentioned above, the REI Silk Crew dries lightning-fast, closely followed by the Outdoor Research Echo L/S and the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight. Colorful and practical, our soak n' dry test seeks to replicate how you would hand wash and air dry shirts while on an expedition or extended backcountry trip. The top can also be used for outdoor activities like skiing as the sleeves promote full mobility. Base layers are meant to sit right against your skin, wicking away sweat as you move around. Secondly, we consider how the garment generally fits: Is it too loose, too tight, does it constrict in particular areas like the shoulders? No ads. Some annoying things that can happen when base layers dont fit you well: leggings can get saggy at the buttocks or the waistline elastic can roll down while moving. I like that it has a high neck, so I can keep my neck extra warm and avoid drafts, but that theres a zipper so its still breathable. If youre unsure of what you want by the end of this post, just get the Smartwool Classic Base Layer Top. As a workhorse for thermoregulation, we understand the importance of having a base layer that will serve you well through all of your outdoor pursuits. Not surprisingly, the tops that earn our highest scores for breathability are also made from the lightest weight fabrics. A comfy, cozy base layer like the Meriwool Midweight Thermal will almost certainly put a smile on your face the next time you're on a backpacking trip. Put together they deliver great breathability even when hiking on sweaty, humid days. They hang loose and have gotten looser over time. This top is one of the few midweight layers we tested that is exceptionally breathable for its weight. A surprising turn-out concerning comfort is the NW Alpine Spectra this top is a full-synthetic blend that magically feels like merino wool, thanks to the extra-pliable Spectra fibers. A 360-degree view of the handsome fit of the Meriwool Midweight Thermal. While the REI Silk Crew is awkwardly baggy, its sheer construction allows it to layer easily underneath practically anything, including heavier-weight options. No longer do mountain athletes have to sacrifice durability to save weight, nor do they have to substitute comfort for performance. All trademarks property of their respective owners We target the most important qualities to analyze and test these layers side-by-side according to these metrics. We score all base layers across key areas of performance like warmth, breathability, and drying speed. For the deep cold of winter, we recommend the Smartwool Merino 250. We also drag them up against rocks, roll them in the dirt, bushwack through manzanita and chaparral to get to beautiful places, and subject them to merciless amounts of washing and drying cycles. Ive had this shirt for several years and have worn it on dozens of hikes and overnight backpacking trips. Ski patrollers are up and working hard well-before first chair (perks of the job.) In addition, the fabric stays odour-free, fresh and dry for multiple days. Honestly, I havent found much use for these leggings. a fit that is close to your skin but not too tight. If you'll be wearing this top to scrape through slot canyons and drag yourself up rock chimneys, then durability is probably a quality you'll want to think about first. Hood. Alongside warmth, it is arguably the most important quality of an effective base layer. Our testers' favorite aerobic layers are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight and Outdoor Research Echo L/S these tops are perfect for 3-season activities like backpacking or trail running. What dont I like? Are there gusseted underarms, purposeful stitching patterns, or articulated zones to help freedom of movement? When choosing between options, comfort and fit are usually at the top of the list for many consumers. What do I like about the leggings? But they arent perfect. When it comes time to pack for the outdoors, I just dont gravitate toward the Icebreaker Oasis 200 Thermal Leggings.

That said, youll likely find it warm and more comfortable doubling up on mid layers instead of base layers for example, wearing a fleece sweater and a down jacket. The Outdoor Research Echo L/S is the perfect top for long trail runs, or any heart-pumping activity through the warmer parts of shoulder seasons, or just chilly summer mornings. I'm Mikaela and I'm the voice behind Voyageur Tripper, a blog dedicated to outdoor adventure travel.

This long list of critiques provides us with a lot of information to justify how each layer will fit and perform. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. Browse more than 100 reports here! Super tight base layers can feel restrictive. It has retained its shape, shows no sign of wear or pilling and is still very warm. While all of these layers perform well next to skin, a few work great layered in other ways, too. With a little extra fabric weight compared to others in its class, when properly layered, this top will continue to keep you dry and comfortable through the winter, only adding to its value and versatility. Ive put holes in so many merino wool bottoms and yet these ones are still going strong (after five odd years). The only thing you wear under a base layer is underwear (and a bra, if you wear one). Other times, it comes from a deep well of desire to work hard and push yourself, rising up to the surface as sweat. We purposefully choose to test the best layers on the market, so a low score in our testing does not mean a product is not worth its mettle. That said, they try to be careful to hang dry them and not wear them every single day (they are certainly comfortable enough to want to do just that in the winter). The shirt strikes a nice balance between being lightweight and providing warmth. However, it is incredibly durable. Beyond these small critiques, the Meriwool Midweight Thermal presents a reasonable entry-point into all-natural base layers. I tend to choose other leggings over them. We're only human, so we often gravitated toward tops that are soft and comfortable next-to-skin. How are the lengths of the torso and sleeves - does it expose your belly and wrists when reaching up? Mine now have a small hole in the crotch. Does it glide against your skin or cling too tightly? Whereas a turtle neck or a high neck midweight are great choices for cooler weather. The design is also very girly (as is with all Kari Traa products) so some people will like or dislike that. Theyre warm without being bulky (so they pack into my backpack very easily) and theyre form-fitting without being tight or scratchy. We note how easy they layer as well as how they fit and feel: next to skin, over a t-shirt, over another base layer, under a sticky and tight fleece mid-layer, a sweatshirt, a puffy, a rain shell, as well as stacked in a full layering system of first (base) layer, mid-layer, puffy, and hard shell. But then I discovered a few merino wool brands that make high-quality, affordable pieces and discovered the wonderful properties of merino wool: excellent moisture-wicking, quick-drying and odour-resistance. The Kari Traa Rose Thermal Leggings are excellent, inexpensive merino wool base layer bottoms. When the going gets steep, this layer kicks into gear by efficiently wicking moisture away from our body, keeping us dry and happy all day. As the foundation of your layering system, warmth is one of the most important qualities to consider in your decision. As a bit of an outlier, the Patagonia Capilene Air continues to impress with its unique ability to masterfully balance warmth and breathability.