Are Synthetics Better For Movement in the Winter?

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[@GruntProof]

Test 2, wool: kzbin.info/www/bejne/naLGh6inYqiiibc

[@Fire_And_Iron]

I spent years in the Army in Alaska, wool is best in my experience.

[@theborg9293]

merino wool by far the best and doesn't stink even after while

[@stefanosgerontopoulos6749]

Wool wool and only wool. Nothing else!!! I agree 100% Excellent video.

[@melyssa8585]

@@Matthew_Australia but wool keeps it’s insulting value even wet. Just that alone is a win for me

[@GruntProof]

A lot of the newer synthetics do too. I have an epic test video coming up to prove that.

[@George-pf8zb]

I like a blend, get some benefits of both!

[@melyssa8585]

@@George-pf8zb I use a blend personally. Slightly cheaper too

[@alexanderweaver4838]

My money is on wool, specifically merino wool. It's lightweight, wicks moisture and doesn't stink even after a week on the backpacking trail. Damn, Randall, you are in incredible shape. I would have passed out after carrying that log. Much respect to you.

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! I need a lot more training 💪🏻

[@mikeries8549]

Consider if you looked up what a Maine hunting guide wore in 1922... That'd probably be the very best gear ever. 😉

[@txwarrior50]

I grew in Alaska in the 1950's then it was always wool. The older I got the more I learned, in the late 1980's I got my first pair of polypro. They were great. Now I wear the grid fleece thermals. A combo of both I find to be the best.

[@johnoneill5812]

I like merino wool best for comfort & warmth. Also like the idea of a natural and renewable material rather than a synthetic concoction of who knows what.

[@damonthomas8955]

As I understand it, synthetic fleece is usually made of recycled pop bottles, no joke.

[@journeyman7189]

Good start. Looking forward to part 2. Thanks for putting yourself through this Nate

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! Luckily the weather matched my workout and shooting schedule 😁

[@dominick8656]

This is exactly the series of vids I needed. I've been torn between wool vs synthetic and haven't tested the topic like this. Great work!

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! Standby for part 2, and lll do an overall vs later as well

[@kiltedranger8878]

Awesome, nice to see some legit tests! I am one Sweaty Yeti, so very interested in your overall. I just know I am soaked either way when I am done huckin with both wool and synthetic base. The hour test at the end is The Stuff! Thanks for taking such a nut hit of testing!

[@GruntProof]

Thanks!

[@julianriemer2916]

Thanks for freezing your butt off for us. Grrreat video and real nice t-shirt in the intro. I admire the way you handle the topic which is important for so many others. 👍

[@GruntProof]

Thanks a lot!

[@MrTangent]

I am amazed at the bug at 4:11 bottom middle of screen that is out in freezing temps.

[@m809er]

Hey Randall, thanks for torturing yourself for our benefit - this is great! Looking forward to PT. 2 :)

[@didibrant7326]

The winter of 1978-1979 was the coldest winter in Germany in 30 years. My company spent several days in a snowy forest that looked just like the one you were in. Women only wore a thin O.D. T- shirt , cotton fatigue shirt, and an unlined cotton fatigue jacket. The men's jackets had a lining but the Army thought women didn't need a lining. We were issued long john underwear, full body size, made of the scratchiest wool which noone ever wore outside. We used them as pajamas in the barracks with a T-shirt underneath and also other panties or bloomers underneath. In the forest, the women's tent had no heat but since the men made up about 80% of our company, they got huge warm fans at each entrance of their circus sized tent. The women's tent turned into an igloo as our breaths rose to the underside of the canopy and turned into ice. It was 20° F below 0°( not 20° above as I usually only cover my bare arms if it gets below 20°F as I only wear a vest for civilian clothing to prevent sweating). Was I glad when at 3:00 AM, I was awakened to pull a 2 hour guard duty shift, stepped out of the frozen tent into the warm 20°F below 0 air. What a surprize.Warmth is relative. Of course, if it wasn't for the Mickey Mouse boots, I would have lost my feet. So to answer your question, I prefer synthetic. Cotton Army clothing: bad, bad, bad. Don't believe in wool either as my early 50's childhood in Holland's coldest winters are horrible memories as all we had then was wool.

[@mikereynolds5753]

Damn glad I got there in ‘80, it was cold enough then. First unit was mech infantry and you spent most of time in field during winter when the rack vehicles didn’t destroy the land🥶

[@AllTheGoodNamesGoneReally]

I combine Merino with synthetic and like both... Only rule: no cotton ever!

[@harrymills2770]

@@wyomarine6341 Yes. "Cotton kills" is the saying. It's super-comfy if you can keep it dry, though.

[@albert21able]

Spot on Randall, Well done mate

[@catch22fishing65]

I have no idea why you've never popped up in my suggestion feed until now but great channel

[@topherdean1024]

I've tried various types of ski clothing, but for the last 40 years, my go to ski pants are WW2 US Navy wool dress pants, here's why: They keep me warmer than any ski pants I've tried, even soaking wet. They don't slide when I wipe out on the steeps. They have a high waist that keeps the powder out. They have bell bottoms that go over my boots easily. They're natural fibers so they don't contribute to the microplastic cloud, they stay put and don't bunch up, they fit snuggly but allow total freedom of movement and they are way more rugged than any nylon ski pants. They're simply the best ski pants I've ever used. Someday they'll run out of WW2 surplus clothing and that will be a sad day.

[@torsten4757]

Danke fürs zeigen, interessantes Thema 👍

[@americanpatriot6918]

I prefer wool when I know I will be sweating. By the way that Multicam blended in to that environment very, very well!!! Can't wait to see part two!!!🤜🤛🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@charliegambino4951]

I am partial to the synthetics myself I framed houses for 15 years and we never laid off during the winter so sometimes you got pretty sweaty and I found that synthetics Wick better for me. Wintertime wind always sucked no matter what you were wearing. Good video I enjoyed it.

[@mikey13b]

Did you ever trywool as well in this scenario?

[@HeatherSpoonheim]

As an avid cross-country skier I can assure you that it is not a question of one or the other. You want a thin synthetic layer against the skin because it doesn't soak up moisture - so it won't trap moisture against your skin where it can suck the heat right out of you. You do want the insulation and moisture wicking properties of cotton and/or wool as your next layer - to wick the moisture out of the synthetic and hold it away from your body. Finally, some sort of wind shell exterior will help keep the wind from sucking too much heat out of that cotton and/or wool layer - allowing the moisture to be dispersed and evaporated out of your sleeves, pantlegs cuffs, and around the neck where it isn't drawing on your core heat. Finally, having a big but light outer shell packed away that you can put on when you stop moving and your temp starts dropping will really save the day if you are injured or need to stop and rest.

[@cantstartafire]

Outstanding. I'm a wool guy but I still have my polypro tops and I love them. I'm totally stealing that work out. My 7 year old is out shrimping across the back yard now. I can't let my little shipmate do that alone. It's on! Thanks man! Cheers!

[@GruntProof]

Go for it

[@MichaelCurrie71]

First tour in RA was in Korea in 91. As a 96R I was in the field ALOT. The ECWCS was just coming out (gen 1 gore tex duckbill) and was sought after, but CIF didn't have enough for everyone so I had to rely on my issue wool stuff with the dumb white fur hood jacket. Cold AF. Years after I coveted my gen 1 ECWCS and poly pros. Recently gave the waffle shirt as a gift and they said it was the warmest shirt he ever had. Great video and well done. Subscribed.

[@operationseekingtruth]

Really looking forward to part two.

[@leslieandrews6324]

Good training. Nothing beats a wool blanket inside a sleeping bag in winter at grafenwoehr

[@brushbum7508]

Thanks ! Lookin forward to 2. TAKE CARE..

[@ozdavemcgee2079]

Easy question to answer. Wet jumper dries and wicks away from the body. Synthetic, hell wet in a wind it'll freeze you, literally. Wool can be smelly heavy but it will keep you alive. There is a mathematical formulation to prove it. The cheapest tender wins the defence contract. Synthetics are cheaper than wool. Armies still supply a wooly pully. Even though its expensive.

[@rat1knives771]

Im a wool guy, when wool gets wet it can still hold 80% of its insulative value, all tho synthetics also have their merits too. Good video brother 👍

[@GruntProof]

Thanks!

[@hunterp7821]

That spandex though.. 👌

[@carlbernsen1290]

Hi, what’s the source for this? And how wet is wet? I’ve looked into it fairly extensively and found tests which show that thoroughly wet wool is only as warm as wearing no clothing at all. Still better than cotton but not good.

[@GruntProof]

Will conduct that exact test

[@rat1knives771]

Nice

[@maximan4363]

Darn interesting video, personally I like merino wool as well. Thin wool socks to above the boot & then thick wool socks up to the knee, really cuts down on the blisters. Same with my arse, thin comfy non-chafing layer & a looser thicker on top - if i'm sat down in the cold the two main areas in the wet stay warm and don't sweat too much. Legs can be poly, get a bit cold and you can move them easy enough to get some heat back. Upper torso I'd go for a combo - just due to the weight and ease of movement for my arms. Hell it all depends on how long you expect to be unrelieved in the field & then at least doubling it. Loved the comment about the car - yeah it sucks! I always find it's the little things that make the most difference, such as weight when wet, which relates to comfort and energy wasted when moving and taking longer to warm up when stationary. Synthetics have come a very long way, especially commercially & remember that pretty much everything in the military is produced by the lowest bidder. It ain't always bad but it's rarely great. Those GI's sitting in their fox holes at the Battle of The Bulge - total respect!

[@GruntProof]

Thanks!

[@hardcorecampinggear]

Loved the music! Good job!

[@ihn]

Great stuff man, I like your videos, this is fun to watch. 👍

[@GruntProof]

Thanks!

[@snappers_antique_firearms]

I loved the old school wool sweater. But my favorite is the smoking jacket ( field jacket liner)under the acu top. I was stationed at Fort Richardson Alaska and when I went to CWLC ( cold weather leadership course) that was my jacket most of the time. And that kept me warm. And the whole time close to - degrees F

[@craigrobertson6082]

That is the best way I have seen polypro and wool tested.

[@CigaretteTheChannel]

I was looking for part 2, but I didn't realize you uploaded this like 12 hours ago

[@ColemanOutdoors]

Had no idea folks were passionate about the two. Read the comments...now I see. Although, it makes sense, people have strong opinions about everything. I don't spend a ton of time in the cold, let alone Army level workouts in those conditions, but I guess I've found what works for me and have stuck with it. I like this...super informative.

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! That's exactly my point: I hope more people learn to experiment for themselves

[@Giskeoutdoors]

Great video, makes me miss being in good shape haha. Only one thing to do, time to get after it harder.

[@steveturner3999]

Thanks Randall!

[@helly8800]

I'm a wool guy! Especially after the merino wool emerged. I use merino socks all year. Merino SS T-shirt in the spring, summer and fall, in the winter a merion LS T-shirt. Merino Buff and beany, and wool finger less gloves. As outer layer I use a cotton/synthetic blend like Fjällräven or helikon-tex. Since I started to use merino wool I don't freeze as much as when I used synthetic baselayers. I'm almost allways hot, like today, it was -1 celcius I was hiking 15 km with 15-20 punds on my back. I was sweating, wearing only a merion baselayer LS T-shirt and a helikon-tex woodsman anorak. But I wasn't cold at any time... In the end I think it's all about what suits your needs and what you are comfortable with.

[@SurvivorMetalMan]

Excellent! Looking forward to part 2

[@GruntProof]

Thanks dude! How's the ankle?

[@SurvivorMetalMan]

@@GruntProof it’s getting better, I can put full weight on it, but only in the boot. I’m ready to be done with this, I’m ready to get back into the woods.

[@GruntProof]

Sweet. See ya out there, we have work to do!

[@SurvivorMetalMan]

@@GruntProof yes, we do brother!

[@rodneypantony3551]

Yesterday, I skied downhill with two merino base layers and an "army sweater" with a collar. I was comfortable and did not sweat. However, I had two 14"x14" wool panels sewn on the inside. I routinely carry an "emergency pack" with a rain resistant pocket shell in case it snows or rains. Above the shoulders, I have maximum of 2 merino balaclavas cut for comfort and sewn together + tight merino neck warmer + oversize, thick polyester balaclava cut so it drapes down shoulder + loose merino neck warmer to cover my nose + ski goggles. Good to minus 30 celsius. Yesterday, after downhill skiing, I removed the "army" wool sweater. I knew it would be too hot. I then wore a full zipp hoodie made from about 1,000 grams of Alpaca. Since alpaca hairs are hollow, they should be twice the warmth of lambs wool. Even though I unzipped the alpaca hoodie, I sweat, but not too bad. After an hour of skate skiing, I zipped the alpaca and tucked it into my pants. I was warm. Having said that, I seem to be wearing less and less clothing in winter as I approach 70 years old. So, I plan to try skate skiing without any shirt. Just bare skin. Head appropriately insulated though.

[@wolffo999]

stagnant /sedentary versus active is a whole other debate

[@amandamiller94]

I think that both of them have there place & a combination of both could b a good thing

[@Kaapee]

Cool video! In Norway we use mostly wool, works well when wet, don't stink to much. You know you won't die if you're wearing wool. I've used Brynje Arctic series for many years, still use one I used in Afghanistan in 2006 (use only wool detergent!). The design is very neat with a mesh layer inside towards the body and a thicker layer in the outside, I got one with thick layer all over and one with only arms and shoulders reinforced, and this is use for fall, winter and spring here (-25 to +10*C ish). Highly recommend checking them out, pricey, but the quality is really good. Combines well with gore tex uniform which stops the wind, the wool breathes very well so you might get cold if the uniform is cotton/summer type.

[@bartwalker6093]

Awesome video Randall! I need to do this workout badly. I would freaking die if I did it today but maybe little by little EH?

[@GruntProof]

Yea it's a great workout

[@JoeMac1983]

I've always been a wool guy because anything I've worn that is synthetic has made me stink like a homeless dude after 10 minutes of wearing it. Just tried a military tshirt with 3% silver to kill bacteria causing odor and I'm on day 3 of wearing the same shirt with no deodorant and I don't stink. I'm blown away. Went down the rabbit hole and now I just bought a Sitka and Kuiu shirt on ebay to test their antimicrobial shirts. I can't wait to try them. I love how syn keeps me dry, but I've always hated the stench. Hopefully I've found the cure!

[@samadams9557]

The warmest system I’ve found is merino wool base layer wool lambs wool chunky sweater (lots of micro air pockets) and a shell. Wool pants like OG woolrich or Filson. But, that’s going to need to be opened up during hard work/exercise.

[@edirt]

Depends on what i do, if i have to wear body armor i prefer synthetic if not i tend to stick with wool. But with socks i always sticks with wool. Grew up with wool and we used it in the military, discovered synthetic later on when i started working in body armor. Looking forward to part two and your results 👍🏻

[@GruntProof]

I agree on the socks!

[@ptpitter]

Just found the sign behind you, thought the hole time I know these hills and trails ;)

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

I use both. Wool for the outer layer, (unless it is raining).

[@yellowdog762jb]

I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes. I love a nice fleece shirt or jacket, but merino wool anything is usually pretty nice also. Once I discovered wool socks by Darn Tough I wear them every excuse I get, from casual outdoorsy type shoes, to upland hunting type boots. They work great on the Texas gulf coast from the 40s to the low 100s. And like others have mentioned, wool doesn't smell after a long day in the field. I also have wool shirts that I really like. No wool pants although I'd like some, I just haven't come across any. I wear poly long underwear, but a lot of guys I hunt with swear that silk long john's are unbeatable in the cold. I haven't tried them out yet and I'm looking forward to hearing your conclusion at the end of this.

[@GruntProof]

The silkweight pants help me during the activity, but don't keep me warm just sitting around. The wool baselayer I got for PT 2 are from Mountain Warehouse. Light and comfy, and have been great so far. I'll do a review on the after testing.

[@barrybri]

I've been using a layer of silkweight ,then 190g/m2 merino from Lithuania that appears to be more like 150g/m2 when I compare it to some of my older USA made IBEX merino,and then another layer of silkweight.This combo works well for me when cutting and moving firewood. If I add the waffles over these layers,I will start to sweat cutting wood,but it will keep me about twice as warm when I'm stationary. Minus 33 merino toque , merino neck gaiter, or merino balaclava to keep my head warm.

[@MaxSluiman]

Wool is fire retardent. Handy near fire. Polypropylene is very inflamable. And sticks to the skin, when burning. Polyester dries quicker than wool. Nomex is quick, drying, moisture transporting, and fire proof. But also expensive. The Dutch army is wearing nomex fleece vests nowadays. Very comfortable!

[@GruntProof]

Yes! Apparently the USMC thermals are FR. I will test em one day

[@patrickmedarac7253]

Thank you for the video

[@GryphonIndustrial]

I'm a fan of old school itchy wool. Warm, dependable, and if you can't feel the itch you know its too damn cold out. Also the Czechs made a nice v neck pullover polypro sweater and they're dirt cheap. I often grab it instead of my 5 button since its easy on/off and my 5 button is a bit form fitting. 5 buttons look very fetching though.

[@hardcorecampinggear]

How's the sizing? True to fit? Do you have a link?

[@GryphonIndustrial]

@@hardcorecampinggear I got mine from :www.varusteleka.com/en/product/czech-m85-pullover-surplus/30053 I've also seen them on ebay and some surplus websites like keepshooting and centerfiresystems. In my opinion the fit is excellent but Varusteleka uses the actual Czech measurements rather than just doing the American "small, med, large". I'm 6'2" and 34" in chest and the 3-44 is just right with a little wiggle room to spare. Even if you don't buy one from them their sizing chart is helpful. If you find them for sale using the American sizes try to find one going by the military size at least (I.e. Small-short, small-reg, small-long) so you don't just by a small and then find out it was made for hobbits. I've made this mistake before. Either short hem, short sleeves, or both. I know there was a few ebay sellers with some out of Lithuania. A lot of surplus on ebay is coming out of Lithuania. I bought from one of them once and shipping went fine.

[@hardcorecampinggear]

@@GryphonIndustrial Thanks for that.

[@GruntProof]

Man that's dirt cheap! I'm gonna have to grab one. Thanks

[@bobbyg5154]

I’ve had both. The waffle top and bottom are the best.

[@xvsj-s2x]

Excellent demo 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@farmerwayne1404]

I use both. Polyester for quick dry with merino wool on top. Or just one or the other. Merino wool socks year round. Btw ,what was your tshirt made of???

[@wolffo999]

great vids

[@wolffo999]

that wet german cold - is legit

[@neilcastell6951]

this is going to be interesting, modern synthetics have jumped ahead in recent years, even cheap stuff is pretty decent now. I do like oldschool wool thou, recently picked up a Navy pea Coat and very impressed with it keeping out both the cold and the wet,

[@mardiffv.8775]

But does your pea coat also stop the cold wind? I bought a wool M65 jacket and ditch it after the wind came through.

[@RalphReagan]

Those are so warm

[@neilcastell6951]

@@mardiffv.8775 surprisingly so ... in high winds you start to feel it coming through, but not much. An M65 should be windproof, they have a windproof lining inside ... i own several of them, wind ha never been a problem, but rain on the other hand ...

[@mardiffv.8775]

@@neilcastell6951 Yes, i agree with you. M65's made out of cotton/synthetic are very windproof. But this wool M65 was the outside shell made out 100 % wool. That did not stop the wind.

[@mardiffv.8775]

@@Valorius Yes, the predessor of the M-65 was the M-50. Those jacket had a separated liner/ shell. I have worn the M-65 since 1986 without a inner shell without problems. I only remove the hood that is inside the jacket. That one sucks, I can feel that hood.

[@poacher-ec9zo]

Thanks

[@MDR-hn2yz]

Watching this during deer season, this has been on my mind. I’ve been sitting in cold, shitty weather for 2 weeks now. I used to be sold on wool. Then I started using some good quality synthetic’s and I like them. Honestly I like them both for different stuff. I am definitely a believer in proper layering though, no matter what. I’m a former Marine and the coldest I have been was in Iraq. I was an aerial gunner in helos. Flying at night, in the winter, was absolutely brutal. You take a 40ish degree ground temperature, go up a few thousand feet, add a 140 mph wind chill, and stand for hours. Sometimes you just hoped for the $*** to pop off so you forget that you can’t feel your extremities. Pretty sweet. We were wearing nomex cold weather flight gear which was great, until you started moving around; and then you roasted. I remember having to basically strip down before we refueled or loaded anything. We were not allowed to wear the standard issue polypro gear. Apparently if you catch fire or get hit, it melts to you. Honestly at that point, you have bigger problems, but hey the officers get paid to make those big decisions. Good times brother. 🇺🇸

[@GruntProof]

🍻

[@sakssaks5743]

Hard topic Randall. It depends from this 4 simple question: Who? Where? When? and why? Each material fits the appropriate conditions there is no "one-size-fits-all" material!

[@auroraborealisknives4019]

Excellent testing ! I’m looking forward to part 2 If your grunt days are over does it mean you got promoted?

[@GruntProof]

Of course but I left the Infantry years ago.

[@MarcS-zu1qf]

I love wool but in the Infantry i prefer synthetics. Wool dries bad when wet. Woolpower from SE is changing the Situation. I wear it 3 Weeks in wet and cold conditions almost non stop. Try it with synthetics you smell like a really dirty bear. 😙And for a vehicle crew is the point of non melting material a big + as well... I'm looking forward to Part II

[@GruntProof]

Interesting. I'll have to check them out! Good point about FR. Apparently the USMC thermals are FR. I'll be testing that one day. Thanks!

[@MarcS-zu1qf]

@@GruntProof If i remember all the Uniforms and Equip has to be FR according STANAG. But FR means it doesn't burn. But what's about melting by heat? Fleece as scarf/buff or beanie close to your head and face. 🤦🏻‍♂️ During my active time in the GE Army there was no synthetics. Underwear was only available in Cotton. Synthetics and Fire is a bad combination. I have the ACU Fleece jacket (original US) there are some holes inside from Sparks. 😉

[@chillios2222]

wool socks always held up well even over distance, the brown army sweater was great

[@GruntProof]

I love my wool/synthetic socks and the sweater when sitting around. But during activity the sweater is ass

[@chillios2222]

@@GruntProof it was mostly garrison at Fort Campbell, some wore it in the field

[@weasel9062]

Wool seems superior for base and mid layers. But I use both. Sometimes a synthetic sweat wicking tee underneath a merino wool sweater. And my top layers for when its really cold are usually puffers, parkas and softshells that are all synthetics.

[@urbanjungle9600]

To all the table top unboxers doing reviews on YT, THIS is how you test gear! Thanks for beasting yourself for us 🤙🏻

[@GruntProof]

💪🏻

[@TAVAAR7]

Power Rangers rock cover intro...nice

[@GavinBaker21]

Great video as always, glad you covered this topic since it's something I've been wondering for a while. Your channel has been a great resource. Keep it up! Also, what is the name of the song playing at 5:25?

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! It's a KZbin copyright free song. I think the artist is Ethan Max something - all rock and metal

[@peterp4223]

I think it truly depends on what you like I prefer none wool but it truly is a option thing

[@harveyjoneswoodsman5956]

Wool hands down way more durable winter +cold= fier +synthetic =melting

[@user-ft1xf8wk9m]

thanks

[@williampennjr.4448]

I check out the tags on all my old army issued clothing. I was surprised how much of it was make of cotton. Even the socks were 25% cotton the rest were only 50% wool. No wonder we were cold and sweaty all the time.

[@hammerhound168]

The T-Shirt under your synthitec shirt was cotton ? If so would that not retain your sweat and create a moisture barrier that chill you fast when not active ? Good vid TY, looking forward to part 2. Well done.

[@GruntProof]

Good question. I called it the "duty shirt," because the Army switched to synthetic undershirts.

[@pipebear7036]

I used a combination of natural and synthetic (could be a part 3?). So Helly Hansen thermals (poly) next to skin, wool KF shirt then combat smock and trousers when tabbing around with 60lb min Bergen, belt kit and weapon. When you come to rest I don wool jumper under smock (removed when moving) down to -10C. Below -10 down jacket (civvy non bright hue). Head is really important, in my day a "headover" - woollen tube which can be made like a forage cap or balaclava. It's all about heat v. moisture :-)

[@jamescrowe7892]

I would imagine the OPFOR is all around you in old East Germany. What cold weather gear was the knat crossing the bottom of the lens wearing? 😆

[@jeffrichards5106]

I don't have much wool clothing. I have a surplus German army commando sweater which is nice and some Smartwool socks. Also have the Gen 3 military thermals, which are nice and warm, haven't tested them to the extreme though. I would have been face down in the snow after jogging the first 100 yards LOL!..I still smoke.

[@asintonic]

Awesome video. Thank you. What boots are you wearing? thanks.

[@GruntProof]

Belleville Mountain Combat Boot

[@aitornavarro6597]

Well my active in the woods is a little different than your active lol. I don't jog in the snow but I do go hunting and occasionally hiking. But mostly just camp stuff like activities. I find that synthetic wick moisture quicker than wool so you'll wetter sooner but it dries faster. Wool wicks moisture too but it retains quite a bit of it while still being able to keep warm for thr most part. I usually run synthetics as base layers and use wool as mid layers or even as an outer layer sometimes it judt depends on what the weather's doing

[@wolffo999]

wool is warmer and only gives up a bit to synthetic when wet (soaking wet)

[@sdnalyam]

Look at the science. Natick Labs etc who have done multiple tests as well as Leeds University etc show that a wool /synthetic mix base layers with synthetic outer layers is the most effective/efficient solution.

[@throatnotchingtroutzzz6789]

Interesting to compare with part two. I must say, that to me, both can be valuable, I am not that puritanistic. Synthetics are also different materials, like polyester, polyacrylic, polyamide (Nylon, Dupont brand name.), polypropylene, polyethylene, what not? (I think, that mny of these materials were developed around ww2, just before or just after, so they are "older tech", by now, but eg. polyester and polyamide are groups of molecules named after their "chemical bonding" , ester, and amide, funny enough, where as others, like polypropylene, eg. are named after the chemical structure of the "monomer" part itself, so a lot of technological development can of cause happen in the "group polymer arena", even to this day and ahead.) I guess, that the push to introduce synthetics back in the days also partly came, because it can be produced in large quantities (and sometimes quite cheap,) and most synthetic materials are quite durable, whereas wool takes sheeps or some similar animals, (funny enough) to get, and well, the entire planet cannot be filled up with sheep, so? :o) Also, some synthetics, like polyester and polypropylene, eg, are, or can be made, very hydrophobic, so almost no water will be absorbed into the fibers / molecules. That can be an advantage, if things are very wet and quite cold, no matter what, in such conditions it will not be an advantage to have too much water soaked into the material of the clothing. Take a pair of fleece gloves, eg., and soak them completely, thay can almost be made "almost only damp" again, just by squeezing and wringing. (My experience at least?) Wool can maybe do the same, but it might be torn apart faster, if that treatment is to be repeated often? (I only have very few items with merino wool, I must admit, maybe I bought the wrong stuff, but to me it is too fragile and expensive, all in all, but I see many people write how fantastic it is, so?) Also the filling in many synthetic sleeping bags is made of polyester in different forms, hydrophobic qualities being one advantageous feature of this, still warming when damp, like the Carinthia sleeping bags, that many militaries also use. On the other hand wool will be with more spark resistance, odor resistance as people are pointing out, so? Just some "non scientific" thoughts on this, in different directions. Just an idea, but you should or could have brought a small thermometer and placed inside the jacket, some place, chest or so, and then have compared the actual temperature with the wool test part, even if the conditions might not be completely similar, but? Well? Cool test and nice day, no matter what!

[@GruntProof]

Very cool info, thanks!

[@Heywoodthepeckerwood]

Your problem with merino wool is that it is more fragile and not as warm as other types of wool. The only real benefit of merino over other wool is that it is softer.

[@asmith7876]

Damn I'm old. We were issued COTTON waffle looking long underwear, tops and bottoms. Shit would freeze you to death. Only wore it in Basic when I had to, after that I used my civilian long underwear which was synthetic. This was pre-Goretex and all the other modern stuff. As a long-time civilian now I still enjoy backpacking and bike riding all year and I currently have merino wool and synthetic long underwear. Without doing such a rigid test like you are I can't say for sure which I prefer. This fitness regimen, is that your personal workout or is that a current military standard? I'm no couch potato but that shit would kill me LOL. Some of the most REAL reviews ever.

[@GruntProof]

I had a pair of those crappy long johns. They still sell them at clothing sales 😁

[@asmith7876]

@@GruntProof Wow. Shouldn’t even be legal to sell that shit! Love your stuff.

[@orangemanta1050]

The issued silkies usually are about perfect for me, especially as a dude who usually rests at a higher body temp.

[@GruntProof]

I love em for activity in freezing temps

[@icescrew1]

I've got it all. Spent years in the outdoor mountaineering equip retail industry. Had access to test it all. Wool has come along way. As has everything else. Personally I want nothing that will absorb moisture in any way. Also when there is a high risk of death,, I could care less what it costs. My life to me is worth more than that.. A week or so at 11 thousand feet here in winter climbing camps climbing to 14 sorts out gear right away. Correct layering and dealing with sweat is where it's at.

[@mikey13b]

So what are your choices in your layering system?

[@icescrew1]

@@mikey13b in our climate, sw colo, its pretty dry, deep snow where I work and play. Base layer of silk weight top and bottom synthetic. One piece "union suit" with hood synthetic. Gortex bibs outer shell. Gortex hooded shell jacket. Synthetic ball cap. Really good quality ski gloves. I have a highly compressible down jacket I keep in my pack. And some over the glove mittens. We call them "oh shit mitts" the down jacket (which is water repellent) is also worn over the Gortex shell. Usually when you've stopped moving. The rest of the time it's constant changing of layers to accommodate activities, and weather conditions. You want to keep sweating to a minimum. I carry one extra midweight layer to add underneath, just in case. I did have the opportunity to use this gear on Mt Rainer in Washington. Trapped in a storm at high altitude. The snow was wet. We were completely soaked. The storm broke, I went outside the tent. My outer clothes froze instantly. The ice slid off. My inner layers started to "breathe" which is key. I took a short walk and I was as warm as toast. It was amazing. The hype about syntheticics stinking or whatever.. who cares ? And alot of them have odor control now. I use mountain hardware and arcteryx brands. There spendy. But I got 15 years of hard use out of the last set. I'll be out moving snow tonight at 4:30. Nice and dry ! Take care. Feel free to reach out anytime.

[@SniffBackBetter]

Merino wool seems to be the best of both worlds in my experience. It's expensive but worth it.

[@damonthomas8955]

Come on, come on, hurry it up, I wanna see part two.

[@staceymiller4765]

Wool overall for heat retention but synthetic for lighter weight

[@jimf1964]

Wool is better. It just is. It's more forgiving for heat and cold, and when damp, retains more insulating value, but garment construction counts a lot too. Like the waffle design in your poly shirt is excellent, and maybe better than the army flat wool. The best for outside the army is Marino wool under layer, cable knit wool middle, and poly wind proof outer layer. But there's so many considerations. Like the cable knit is warm, but not very tough, and terrible alone in the breeze etc.... It's all about pairing up stuff for the task at hand. In other words, haters on both sides have a point, .

[@alanrice39]

It’s wool for me. I have the wool fatigue shirt and sweater. And some wool sweaters from overseas military. Alan R

[@thelonerider9693]

The great thing about wool I've noticed is it DOES NOT smell.

[@GruntProof]

I've gotten mine pretty nasty but yes, not as bad as some synthetics

[@DeeMoback]

Oh BTW....... NEVER discount the benefit of having a number of those little open-shake-use handwarmers ....... LOL .....say what you wish but a couple of those things in the toe-box in a cold-camp makes life real nice ..... I don't hear people mention this but take it from an old man.....expiration date on them does indeed make a difference

[@m005kennedy]

Wow! You obviously win the award of the most effort in calories burned in making a product review!

[@GruntProof]

😂 I do this with all clothing that I test

[@m005kennedy]

@@GruntProof amazing!

[@mardiffv.8775]

Why has the military replaced wool with synthetics? Weight and cost. Wool is heavy and expensive. But wool has a few tricks up its sleeve: still being warm while being wet and wool does not burn. So safe around fires.

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! I'm gonna do a special video on that later

[@GruntProof]

Thanks! I'm gonna do a special video on that later

[@geroldknoebel2402]

I mean, you have to answer that question first and you have to answer it like this: Can you tolerate pure wool, or strong 100% cotton? How does the body react to synthetics? In what climatic region is it? Today there are mixed fibers of pure wool and chemical, keep very warm and adsorb moisture ( sweat ). Who can not tolerate it, then clean well washed pure wool. Both variants should be the basis for direct body contact, depending on how you tolerate it. The between layers of clothing, logically also just as breathable. The outerwear, logically waterproof and breathable. As for the shoes, double-stitched jump boots, now and then well reingepisst inside. Always disinfects. Outside several times provided with the appropriate leather protection. If it can get wet, wrap feet with paper and shopping bags over it, I also take garbage bags, up to the hips, fixed with tape and then the pants over it and shoes on. Absolutely waterproof, the intermediate layer and skin remains dry and that's the point. In my 7 years paratrooper, in the seventies, we were apparently, cleverer, than today in the pampered armies.

[@bayouflats5054]

Appreciate the experiment. I don’t know how anyone deals with that situation. With all those items on, I’d be sweating early and soaking wet before 1st run done. Which makes for a popsicle in the morning. I be dead dog.

[@tenij000]

what about cleaning the gear in the field

[@GruntProof]

Most of us dummies don't, which is why our stuff is great.

[@couchcamperTM]

Wool is hard to beat, exceptions: underpants and tarps xD

[@GruntProof]

😁

[@steyn1775]

You also have Merino wool underpants

[@couchcamperTM]

@@steyn1775 May I ask how you found out about it? ;-)

[@RyanRyzzo]

Merino is excellent; cotton or some weird fabrics feel like wearing cold moist plastic bags xD haha

[@damonthomas8955]

Underpants are for chicks, real men go commando.

[@HumbleCowboy92]

Randal, are paracord laces better or worse than the standard skinny nylon laces? I know this is off subject, but I’m just curious if I should replace my standard nylon laces on my boots with 550. Thanks and keep up the good work!

[@HumbleCowboy92]

@@Matthew_Australia Thank you!

[@GruntProof]

I never thought it worked BETTER, but can be useful. I had to use 550 in Ramadi because I tore mine and just couldn't find laces. What happens after you use the cordage in your boots in the field? Then you have a useless boot.

[@HumbleCowboy92]

@@GruntProof Thank you so much! That is a very good point and a no-brainer lol

[@GruntProof]

I gotcha. You gotta be pretty messed up to purposely limit your mobility and foot protection. Then, in that case, you're going to need a lot more than cordage to save yourself 😁