Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I particularly love them for sleeping; I have been using them on almost all of my warm weather multi-day backpacking trips since I got them. 
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. I personally prefer 100% merino wool when looking for the best base layer for warmth. Merino wool is an excellent material for base layers. Thats what Ive done. Hood during a winter ascent. From the highest mountains, to the deepest canyons, a versatile base layer is key to keeping you dry, comfortable, and on-the-move across the seasons. It excels in practically any cool- or cold-weather activity, from resort skiing to winter alpine ascents to hanging on chilly mornings on desert climbing or rafting trips. For the deep cold of winter, we recommend the Smartwool Merino 250. The Patagonia Capilene Air, pictured here, traps heat extremely well in a layering system but as a stand-alone layer, air cuts right thru it. Sometimes the moisture comes from outside sources, like rain or snow. When choosing between options, comfort and fit are usually at the top of the list for many consumers. Personally, I like to wear colorful base layers with patterns.
Your support is much appreciated! This superior performance does come at a cost. No matter where it comes from physically or metaphorically a top's ability to dry quickly on the body is important. When I got the leggings, they fit really well, although after two years they are starting to sag at the bum a bit. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. 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). 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. This specific test gives us a very clear idea of how certain tops will hold up to abrasion. As expected with natural fibers, this top will begin to slouch and sag a bit through consistent wear.
The NW Alpine Spectra is just one piece in a line that is the first in the world to incorporate Spectra fiber an innovative material that is engineered to be lighter and stronger than Kevlar. Early bird gets the worm, or a summit bid all to ourselves in this case. Mid-layers are intended to add insulation, and a shell helps to keep you protected from the elements. 
The breathability of a garment is determined by how quickly and efficiently a fabric can convert sweat to free water vapor.
The Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight is one top that slept comfortably (if you tend to sleep on the warmer side) and carried us right through the heat of the day.
The half zip makes it more versatile for changing weather conditions. To test durability, we inspect the strength of the fabrics and the quality of the stitching and construction of the pieces as a whole. Merino wool is excellent at wicking moisture and drying quickly, so itll keep you warm even if you sweat. 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. Looking for the best ski jacket? Ive also worn them as a single layer under snow pants when Ive been winter camping. Fortunately, it is really intended to be worn at the base of a winter kit rather than as a standalone top for summer activities. The Outdoor Research Echo L/S is one of the most valuable synthetic layers on the market today. This isnt a deal-breaker, as Im usually wearing base layer bottoms underneath other clothing or in my sleeping bag. Is it good for sleeping or hiking or skiing or winter? No longer do mountain athletes have to sacrifice durability to save weight, nor do they have to substitute comfort for performance. The fit is snug but not restrictive (I find it to be super form-fitting without being tight). Buy quality. For metrics such as warmth, testing is as straightforward as wearing the garments in cold weather often and noting the relative differences. Not surprisingly, the tops that earn our highest scores for breathability are also made from the lightest weight fabrics.
The Champions of Comfort are easily the SmartWool Merino 250, Patagonia Capilene Air, and Ortovox 185 Rock'N'Wool, all boasting soft, plush, cushy fabrics.
In fact, most manufacturers indicate that their wool layers are not dryer safe and instead suggest lying the garments flat to dry. Some tops in our selection stand out for their superb comfort and fit, while a couple leave much to be desired. For some lightweight tops like the Outdoor Research Alpine Onset, a blend of synthetic fibers and all-natural merino wool means that this crew will offer more warmth than its weight suggests. Ive had this shirt for several years and have worn it on dozens of hikes and overnight backpacking trips. We often spend on high-quality products to own fewer things that will both last us longer and stay out of the landfill. And theyve lost some of their form-fitting shape over the years in the booty. 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. It is the perfect companion for cool-weather camping during the shoulder seasons, works well for both resort and backcountry skiing, and is certainly a stylish top to be worn casually. These are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight, NW Alpine Spectra, Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew, and both of Outdoor Research's options: the Alpine Onset and Echo L/S.
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. Even though this post is specifically about merino wool base layers, it is important to know that not all merino wool fabrics use 100% merino wool. 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. You can learn more by reading my full disclosure. As a result, I own way too many. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We score all base layers across key areas of performance like warmth, breathability, and drying speed. Our head tester is 5'10", 155lbs, wearing a size medium. 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. Subscribe for exclusive content, giveaways, new products and more!
For those reasons, I dont wear them under hiking pants or use them during the day anymore. If I could only have one set of base layer bottoms surprisingly, I would choose the Kari Traa Rose Leggings. We target the most important qualities to analyze and test these layers side-by-side according to these metrics. A passion for winter weather led him to a bachelor's degree in snow and climate science. Choosing a layer that balances active drying and warmth is crucial for sports like backcountry skiing. To no one's surprise, thinner fabrics dry significantly faster than thicker ones. 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. Neck Opening: Having a zip on the shirt allows you to let some air in when you start to feel toasty. Your email address will not be published. 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.
Durability is paramount for base layers that are going to pull double-duty as standalone shirts for rugged activities like mountain biking. The ability to layer well is an often overlooked consideration but is important for practical use in the outdoors.
To test abrasion resistance in a controlled environment, we grind the elbows of the fabric a set number of times across a one-foot distance of gritty sandstone to see how the fabrics fair (think wash-board technique). The Meriwool Midweight Thermal offers near top-quality performance at a fraction of the cost of most of the 100% Merino tops we tested.
As the foundation of your layering system, warmth is one of the most important qualities to consider in your decision. Silk, while incredibly valuable in terms of warmth-to-weight-to-thickness, is a hard sell based on durability alone.
There are certainly pros and cons to each material type. 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.
The broad consensus is that merino wool is, generally speaking, less durable than synthetic fabrics. 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. They hang loose and have gotten looser over time.
Though it is a versatile, lightweight option, the Spectra won't provide you with any of the insulation you may need to make it through the coldest days of winter. 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. The balance between price and value is a fine line to walk when researching a product. If you're looking for a lightweight base layer, this is the best we've tested. Buy less. The fit is excellent as they sit snug but not too tight or restrictive. 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. This merino thermal base layer feels pretty soft and is comfortable against the skin my only critique is that it is a little scratchy on the sensitive parts (so I dont love wearing it without a bra at night).
A non-breathable shirt will prevent that moisture from escaping, leading it to condense on the inside of the garment. There are dozens of other articles on the internet that go into detail about the tech specs and fabric properties, so I wont speak too much about that. As the heaviest 100% merino layer top we tested, this top is designed specifically with snow sports in mind. It simply means that it performed poorly in relation to the competition. 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. 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. No base layer is the perfect base layer for all activities and conditions even my favorite items have some drawbacks.
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. Honestly, I havent found much use for these leggings. Read review: Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino. It provides better warmth for its weight when compared to synthetic fabrics. 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. 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. Luckily, we've got the scoop on how to nail your layering system, from underwear to outerwear.
But when it comes to longevity, natural material still falls behind its 100% synthetic counterparts. The shirt strikes a nice balance between being lightweight and providing warmth. Breathability is the yin to warmth's yang. No ads.
The SmartWool Intraknit is impressively warm for its weight. We scrutinize each layer and ask the following questions: How does the fabric feel next to your skin? It's perfect for climbers, runners, or really anyone who spends much of their summertime out in the sun.
Im an advocate for versatile warmth when youre in the outdoors.
I consider the Kari Traa Rose Half Zip to be the best merino wool base layer for its price point (especially because it always seems to be on sale on some outdoor website). To test layering ability, we consider all the ways a top can be layered, and we try all of the combinations with every piece. If you are looking for a layer that better suits highly aerobic activities or you want versatility across seasons, you will likely benefit from choosing a lighter-weight layer that is designed to breathe a bit better. If youre a brand looking for a partnership, please visit my Work With Me guidelines.
Synthetic fabrics tend to be less expensive, a touch more durable, and pack down smaller. But these design features can also keep your top from rising up and exposing your back and belly when bending over to put on your climbing skins or reaching for that next crimper when climbing. Are they saggy or see-through?
While it excels as a backcountry skiing base layer, this is a great choice for any cold-weather alpine endeavor. High desert mountain biking requires a layer to thermoregulate well, since you can often experience 20-degree temperature swings between the sun and shade. Slim-fitting sleeves and waists, combined with well-stitched hems and cuffs, tend to do the best. Looser, more relaxed fitting tops that layer well over another lightweight shirt are the Smartwool Merino 250 and the Meriwool Midweight Thermal. With the benefits of increased breathability, you will sacrifice of a bit of warmth don't expect this layer to be quite as warm as other 250 g/m options included in this review. Merino wool claims that it can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet to the touch. Roland holds a degree in Outdoor Recreation Leadership and has guided rivers, backpacking, and climbing for 12 years throughout the US and Central America. I do find the bottoms a bit scratchy, so I havent been using them lately. The four-way stretch makes the top very comfortable, even while moving around. We've tested everything from long underwear and warm fleece jackets to synthetically insulated and down jackets to keep you toasty. If you're value-minded but tend to run colder, add a little warmth with an all-natural option like the Meriwool Thermal Midweight, a 100% merino wool layer that is very reasonably priced compared to its direct competition. For this update, we compare 15 of the most popular options side-by-side. Base layers and thermals are the same thing. GearLab is reader-supported. 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. But they dont shift or ride up when worn under layers. If its really cold, technically you can wear two base layers. How can we improve GearLab? When skiing, we particularly appreciate the ability to keep your top tucked in and snow out of your pants. Thus, a higher number indicates greater warmth. The Outdoor Research Echo L/S is a perfect example of this, flat drying in as little as a half-hour, and simultaneously preventing moisture build-up on our skin, regardless of climate or body temperature. Merino wool has come a long way in terms of durability particularly considering merino wool/polyester blends. Ive put holes in so many merino wool bottoms and yet these ones are still going strong (after five odd years).
However, when it comes to breathability and drying out during activity, silk falls far behind rival synthetic materials. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. Pure merino guarantees the best warmth-to-weight ratio and its inherent odour-free properties suffer when synthetic is added to it. Alongside warmth, it is arguably the most important quality of an effective base layer. 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. Alpine adventures require that your clothing doesn't hold you back when the situation means you have to make that move. Theyre warm and soft and cozy and perfect for the wilderness (and nice to wear around the house). He has also taught land stewardship and environmental ethics as a Master Educator for the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. Theyre warm without being bulky (so they pack into my backpack very easily) and theyre form-fitting without being tight or scratchy. If you have the resources, you can invest in a few pairs each suited to an activity.
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. As such, Im a huge fan of the layering system. Many quality brands will preshrink their merino wool base layers, so they wont shrink after you purchase them. This layer performs well in a wide range of temperatures, allowing you to quickly transition from static cold to high-exertion, all while staying warm, dry, and comfortable. Even in freezing weather and my legs stay warm and dry throughout! Itd also make for a great hiking shirt, I just dont use it for those purposes.
When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. 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. Its made from 200 gsm merino wool, so its suitable under layers in the winter, but its also suitable as a stand-alone hiking shirt in the shoulder seasons. It sort of has the feeling of a soft jersey cotton sweater, but rest assured, its 100% merino wool.
All trademarks property of their respective owners NuYarn is an innovative technology that specifically layers merino wool over synthetic fibers to best replicate the natural loft and breathability that makes the all-natural fiber so special. The standout tops for well-balanced warmth are the SmartWool Merino 250, the Patagonia Capilene Air Crew, and the Ortovox 185 Rock'N'Wool.
That said, I dont own these base layer bottoms so I cant speak to them personally! This climb is a true test of a base layer. Ive worn this shirt for more than a week at a time and it doesnt smell. They arent the most durable leggings either. That said, they do have a few flaws. So it is particularly unfortunate that this prized piece is also susceptible to damage by abrasion.
We wore these layers through the varying temperatures of fall and winter to test every quality that results in you successfully staying warm and dry. Is it loose, letting cold air draft in like a barn door, or is it too tight? As a ski patroller and avalanche educator, you can often find him huddled in a snow pit, happily freezing his butt off to discuss the finer details of stellar dendrites. 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. 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. Merino wool tops are typically more expensive and bulkier but offer benefits like superior body-temperature regulation, moisture-wicking ability, and odor resistance. Want to reach out to Mikaela? 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.
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. For a decade, our team of experts has bought and tested 43+ of the best base layers on the market. But for the sake of producing quality reviews, alas, we must decide from time to time what materials are the best for certain situations. Whether it's for the warm or cold season, a quality base layer is sure to keep you dry and comfortable, no matter where your next outdoor escapade takes you. Whereas a turtle neck or a high neck midweight are great choices for cooler weather. 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. We hope that a future design of this shirt moves the seams off the shoulder top, which can rub when wearing a heavy pack. So lets dive into, what I deem to be, the best merino wool base layers for women! Models like the Icebreaker 200 Oasis and the REI Lightweight Crew have a drop-tail hem. 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. This top is one of the few midweight layers we tested that is exceptionally breathable for its weight.
Merino wool is the warmest base layer material.
How are the cuffs? While the REI Silk Crew is awkwardly baggy, its sheer construction allows it to layer easily underneath practically anything, including heavier-weight options. Skinning and sweating in pre-dawn subfreezing temps for hours, then standing still on the windy summit, and finally 6,000 feet of downhill skiing. Are there gusseted underarms, purposeful stitching patterns, or articulated zones to help freedom of movement? Our lead tester is 5'10" and 160lbs, wearing a size medium. When the fabric becomes completely saturated, this top is comparatively slow to dry. I'm Mikaela and I'm the voice behind Voyageur Tripper, a blog dedicated to outdoor adventure travel.
This 150 g/m option strikes a nice balance between mid- and lightweight, offering more versatility to wear as the season transitions from frigid winter temps to sunny spring riding. But you can opt for a merino wool-synthetic blend if: Fabric weight is different from the weight of the garment. For the warmest merino wool base layers, choose a fabric with a weight of at least 250 gsm. Some use a blend of majority merino with a small blend of nylon and other synthetic fabrics. So now I wear merino wool almost exclusively. The stretch and articulated design of the Black Diamond Solution makes it an ideal alpine first layer. 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. The Kari Traa Rose Thermal Leggings are excellent, inexpensive merino wool base layer bottoms. 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. Since base layers fit snug, having an odour-free, moisture-wicking fabric right next to the skin keeps me feeling fresh and warm longer.
Coming in close behind with admirable dry times for synthetic layers are the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe and NW Alpine Spectra. But don't get us wrong, this is not our go-to for warmth.
Thinner base layers, like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight, are designed to keep you dry and comfortable at skin level.
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. They can bunch up under your insulating layer or cause chaffing.
Instead, Ive been using it as a sleeping base layer for so long that I know only ever think of it as a warm sleeping shirt for cold camping nights. I am a sucker for a good set of merino wool base layers. It also keeps the fabric from pilling or being damaged. However, youll want to ensure the larger base layer is on top so it doesnt fit too tightly. The thick merino fabric makes it the most durable merino layer that we tested. Put together they deliver great breathability even when hiking on sweaty, humid days. We appreciate merino-blended options like the Odlo Natural + Kinship Warm Crew and Black Diamond Solution as slightly more insulated options that still prove themselves remarkably well during the shoulder seasons. Regardless of weight class, the NW Alpine Spectra is hands-down the most durable layer we tested. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. You will not be disappointed! 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. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Ive summarized the merino wool base layers reviewed in the table below. Got feedback?
Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician. 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. Both are excellent and provide abundant warmth on cold nights or chilly days.
What dont I like?
Since it fits against the skin so well, its a really good top to wear under other layers, without feeling bulky or causing chaffing. What do I like about the leggings? As an intriguing option to split the difference between light- and mid-weight, the Black Diamond Solution is as equally suited to working hard in the skin track as it is working all day in the snow. Struggling in this category is the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe, with a tight neck, super short torso, and thick sleeve cuffs. If youre a reader with a question, please contact me here. Thats why all the base layers listed above are made using pure merino wool. In our abrasion tests, we could barely get this top to show signs of wear. That means that even at a lower fabric weight, you are able to benefit from additional insulation created by an increased percentage of air pockets without losing out on any of the breathability of this blended top. 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. We fully saturate all of the products and then lay them out to dry at the same time, recording the time it takes for each layer to surface dry, as well as the time it takes for them to dry completely. The Patagonia Capilene Air proving its versatility, keeping us cool and comfortable in the fall Utah Sun. In addition to camping and hiking, you can wear the Vertex when skiing as the gusseted underarms enable full mobility.
For that reason, you dont need to wear any clothing underneath your base layer. Though the Solution may be the only base layer you need to get you through the winter, it's nearly twice the price of many other tops we tested. Unlike its synthetic competitors, it somehow manages to be very acceptable stench-wise after many days between washes. The Merino 250 Crew (and all other merino tops we tested) requires special care when laundering to ensure the garment's longevity.
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In addition, the fabric stays odour-free, fresh and dry for multiple days.
No sponsored content. Whats the value for money? 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. Theres no pilling, no thinning, no tears or anything. We've worn it for days on end, both at home and out on multi-day backcountry trips. Hood. A quality breathable layer will help regulate your body temperature through a range of environments, regardless of your energy output. It's worth addressing that the drying speed of a fabric can differ depending on whether it is being worn or left out to dry.
The fabric weight signifies how much warmth the merino wool will provide. Other factors that contribute to staying power are flatlock seams, which you will find featured on the majority of the layers in this review. All of these ingredients are essential to a layer's ability to keep you warm and dry through a range of temperatures.
The argument of synthetic vs. all-natural fibers is a perpetual battle in the recreational apparel world, and we like to think of ourselves as conscientious objectors in this fight. Overall, this is my #1 base layer recommendation for high-activity outdoor adventures! Shoulder Season (Spring and Autumn) Hiking: This post may contain affiliate links.
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