Choose Your Base Layers Carefully (The Truth About Base Layer Marketing)

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Don't be shy. What are you all wearing for base layers? Or do you wear base layers? There is nothing wrong with saying you wear a pair of long underwear handed down from your Great Great Grandfather :)

[@nathanhobbins4245]

All of my base layer clothing is tight synthetics from Walmart and Target. Because it’s what I can afford. And it works great for me in extreme conditions. Great video and info! I agree 100% with everything you said

[@bingsballyhoo711]

Capilene, well worth the money. Silk does okay.

[@justinfowler2857]

I work on the railroad and during the winter I've used 32 degree heat for the last couple of years. It works great to keep me from sweating and when combined with regular clothes I am able to function much better.

[@adqak503]

Kuiu mostly and then Patagonia. Digging your videos. Also ANC based. Keep up the good work.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@adqak503 Thank you for sharing your gear. I am guessing you are retired Coast Guard based on that Kodiak handle in your username? What a beautiful island. Always fun to meet another Alaskan on here.

[@cristianinternationaltrade9227]

I am from Chile and I was bornt in south, when I was kid my great grand mother made me base layers and sweaters about merino wool because in the south there are thousands of sheeps then for her was very cheap to buy the wool and kniting weaving the cloth by her hands than buying cloth for us in a shop. I never felt cold in winter, I played a lot oudoor like normal kid and of course I sweat but never felt cold because now I understand the magical properties of the wool. Now, 35 years later, I understand I was super lucky to have had my great grand mother(RIP 2013) who made wool cloth for me as now days merino wool is very expensive over the world as got very popular. When no internet, old times were wiser from popular wisdom from elder people.

[@mrjones4249]

It seems like people from many years ago were wiser in many things. Cachai?

[@daughterofthelord01]

You were truly blessed.

[@christusrex8158]

That's a cool story.

[@christieforcelsius3648]

My mom hand made everything for me and all my families in China including waving her own fabrics! Today I am knitting a outfit sweater and looking for a wool linen to add to inside

[@davem6442]

Very cool story.

[@cedarcanoe]

What I learned after 61 years of kayak and winter outdoor hiking in Sweden: 1) HellyHansen LIFA-Active baselayers are the best for high-activity paddling and hiking. 2) The current merino whool baselayers are not strong enough for outdoor high-activity and really need blending with other materials otherwise it will form holes immediately, mostly already on the first day of usage. 3) The very best material for low-activity winter baselayer is a blend of merinowool and silk (Klättermusen sold it until some 8 yesrs ago and stopped selling it because it was too expensive for them to make).

[@gboates]

Agree with #3. I don't find 100% wool base layers anywhere here in Canada. For snowshoeing and snowboarding my wife has long underwear (Icebreaker) 100% merino which she wears on top of cotton or silk ( silk she bought in China). I wear a snug white organic cotton t-shirt under my waffle one piece Patagonia expedition weight long johns with hood. That's good for up to five hours and if cotton gets too wet just peel it off. I always like a snug cotton t-shirt against my skin. Dislike HH Lifa... and other recycled pop bottle garments - reminds me of a bad Xmas present.

[@yeutruyen8146]

Thanks for saying that. I can knit myself a merino wool silk blend no prob. I dont do anything heavy, just brief walk like jogging. I can designed one where friction areas (armpit elbow, etc shedland wool instead of merino. I get itchy around the neck with just wool, can only do merino or cashmere., ofcourse silk but silk doesnt wick well, right? The price of not buying gym membership and enjoy the fresh air while working toward better health….

[@entrelepingetlepong3746]

Hi sorry to disturb you iam a bit lost for make a layering winter for -10 / -20 Celsius can I add on insta for get a little bit help, thank

[@MurCurieux]

Jumping on the 100% merino wool with Ice Breaker for this winter season. Ran 100% synthetic my whole life and am done with the drawbacks. Wife has used 100% merino for years since she as issues with the cold and she swears by that material. Stay warm everyone.

[@josephinegibbs3902]

I live in washable merino. Synthetics have always made me feel icky and cold. For a couple decades after synthetics hit the market it seemed like that was all that was available (other than not-an-option cotton) and I was thrilled when Smartwool arrived on the scene. I love my midwieght Smartwool 1/4 zip, but my everyday top is the Seg'Ments lightweight merino long sleeve tee that shows up briefly in Costco stores in the fall. I always buy several. Merino does have durability issues, and mending is painstaking work, but it is worth it.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

May and I both own the Costco Merino you mentioned. And we agree, it is our daily work horse for the spring, summer, and fall. That is good to hear it can be mended. Also good to hear we aren't the only ones who get that strange feel from synthetics 😆

[@karenvonbargen4472]

Wear and an ambitious moth got the underarm of my Kuhl merino 1/4 zip but I’ve been very successful grafting on an old t shirt to fix the damage. There are several great videos on mending moth holes out there, worth taking a look because merino is pricey!

[@josephinegibbs3902]

@@karenvonbargen4472 As my collection of merino has expanded and aged I've started mending small holes with simple, colorful embroidered flowers. It's fun trying different mending tactics. I agree that sometimes a patch from another old garment is the best method, especially in cases of extensive damage. Long live merino!

[@jerrkyd]

Thanks for the comment. I am a regular shopper at Costco and have always been skeptical of the very popular 32 degrees brand. I have never seen Seg'ments Marino wool at my local Costco in Massachusetts. I briefly saw a brand of Marino wool base layers at a Costco in Vermont. The brand was Karbon. I think this may be a "made for Costco" brand because I couldn't even find them with a Google search. I did however see Karbon brand snow shoes at my local Costco.

[@ayron4739]

Is this clothing itchy?(Smartwool)

[@vanished3306]

I confess, I am a hard core wool freak. There is such a variety in types of wool and weaves it is hard to find one that does not meet a specific need. For cold weather base layer top and bottom - merino has never let me down. I love alpaca wool for socks, hat, and mittens for warmth, softness and durability. Boiled sheep’s wool boot liners are a must. ❣️🐑❣️

[@Kaciebabii]

Wow thanks for the info!!

[@khalidzamzamkz]

Are alpaca wool socks better than merino wool? Like darn tough socks

[@vanished3306]

@@khalidzamzamkz Considerably more durable and warmer. The price of 100% alpaca accurately reflects the difference. There are wools superior to alpaca, but they are priced out of my reach.

[@yeahLOUIS]

Boil?

[@Portia620]

Alpaca is nice but didn’t know how warm it was compared to shearling

[@dongladstone2029]

So refreshing to hear a reviewer that knows their subject. 61 one years later and I've tried a ton of base layers. I'm not convived by blended pieces but I'll give the Patagonia piece a go. To my mind Merino is the best ... by far. Happy Hikes!!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Glad you enjoyed this Don. Merino is really hard to beat in our opinion as well. We have had a handful of folks reach out to us after making this video suggesting we try alpaca. Seems to be a pretty strong following for it. Also a ton of folks really love their LIFA by Helly Hansen. We have never tried these as well. Happy hiking to you as well Don!

[@FreeMissions]

@@PlayingwithSticks have you tried Uniqlo heat tech?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@FreeMissions No we have not.

[@northcountryskytours8137]

I completely agree with the description of "clammy feeling" when wearing synthetic gear. I've been looking into baselayers lately. The 90%/10% you mention is what I got recently. They are great. The nice part is that I think the 10% synthetic part keeps it from stretching out very much. Thanks for the video. Now I know what I should get for my next set.

[@famousamos]

As a Korean, I always choose the synthetic because I gain all of the pros and do not care about the smelly portion because I lack the gene for the sweat odor. So, even when I sweat, it smells like nothing! It is awesome lol 👍

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I have never heard of that gene/odor thing. That is so cool.

[@Portia620]

I don’t sweat much either and really don’t understand what this thing is about people sweating so bad like I guess they just do I barely sweat

[@glamsky3257]

I sweat but not stink at all except underarm. Deodorant takes care of that.

[@Swearengen1980]

@@Portia620 You clearly don't live in Florida.

[@memefeed2147]

Sweat odor isn’t so much as a genetic thing it’s more what kinds of diets can your genetics tolerate to not produce odor. The vast majority of people are capable of odorless sweat if they adhere to stricter dietary regimens.

[@Eunegin23]

Very traditional yet almost unknown in the US: mesh. Looks odd but it's the best. Edmund Hillery climbed Mount Everest with it. I know it from my granddad, German Navy veteran, WW2. I think Brynje products (Norwegian) are also available in the US.

[@Avantgardist]

I want to express my deep gratitude for this great video. You did not try and sell me something or advertise some shitty shake. You really shared information that helps people to find the right thing for their own needs no matter the brand.

[@msm9430]

LoL at "...advertise some shitty shake..."

[@donniebel]

Personally, I’m a big fan of the Merino/synthetic blend, especially in mid weight. I sweat more than average (even without insulation layers if very active) and 100% Merino does not wick or dry fast enough for me; the blended ones are noticeably better when mid weight. Lightweight 100% Merino seems to feel warmer because it wicks faster for me. That said, the very thin, low price synthetic 32 Deg brand from Costco is surprisingly warm, very low weight and has a fraction of the odor problem other synthetics have.

[@dukekaboom4105]

I buy my merino wool base layer in the January sales from a large department store. These are usually pretty hideous to look at but as I’m using for a base layer it great to get them with a 70% discount 😎🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@Legionnaire7777]

I always use my old John Smedley thin merino jumpers had them for years for base layer they work a treat.

[@jpriddle]

Very well put together video. It can be so easy to get overly nerdy on explaining these kinds of subjects, but you make it very practical and plain spoken. I’ve been experimenting with so many layers the last few years for backpacking and skiing. What I’ve found is that all of these various materials can behave very differently when layered creatively. For example, I have grid fleece pieces that are wicking baselayers, but start to insulate pretty well when moved to a mid-layer. Activity specific is super important as well. I’ll reach for a thick flannel if I know I’m just going to sit around in camp. Believe it or not, my go-to year round base layer is a Patagonia Tropic Comfort sun hoodie. While it breaks the rules by being looser fitting and no zipper, it always feels cool next to skin, wicks efficiently and dries instantly. I then pair that with an Appalachian Gear All-paca hoodie, which is 100% alpaca wool and gives any merino or synthetic a run for its money. Then a wind shirt or puffy on top and you’ve got an amazingly versatile 3 piece system for active and resting. Oh, and one thing I will say for cotton. An appropriately lightweight and loose fitting cotton in extremely hot and arid conditions is more comfortable and even safer than a wicking layer. You actually want to retain the sweat moisture to help cool your skin rather than accelerating evaporation. Experienced this first hand here in Texas to make me a believer.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Now this is some good sharing. Really appreciate you taking your time to break this down for all of us. Just looked up the Appalachian Gear Company. They have an alpaca sleeping bag liner. How neat is that! I like how they also mentioned the other uses for it, like a stadium seat or for throwing around your neck while at camp.

[@jpriddle]

@@PlayingwithSticks as a newbie to the world of campers, I’ve gained a lot of wonderful information from your channel. Glad to be able to give back a little on a topic I have some personal experience with. I, for one, would like seeing some more of this kind of content here as well.

[@BirdPhish]

Great video again...thanks for sharing! I've always been partial to the Patagonia brand....Yvonne Chouinard, a famous rock climber, started the line where I lived in Ventura, CA at The Great Pacific Iron Works Store I used to frequent back in my youth. I still have a couple Patagonia sweater/pullovers from back then that I bought at the store in the 80's...that still fits (which I rather proud of lol).

[@PlayingwithSticks]

That is so neat that you experienced, or lived near a bit of history within the brand. And you should be proud about that fit. That says a lot about your willpower. Or, you just have amazing genetics 😆

[@FlanCannon88]

I’ve been wearing my old Army issued silkies, the tan ones we got when the Army was still wearing the ugly gray ACU uniform. I never really put a lot of thought into what kind of base layer material to wear in the cold. I’ve also bought and have been wearing wrangler base layers, and some cheap stuff you get at Walmart. But from what I’ve realized, the military thin silkies had always worked the best, they have been my favorite base layer cold weather clothes since 2009. I am certainly grateful for this knowledge on what types of materials to wear for base layering. Thanks man.

[@waynereilly9750]

I'm from New Zealand so a huge fan of Marino wool. Mostly use the Icebreaker brand. I trekked up to Everest Base camp and didn't shower for over a week and I felt fine, as well as being pretty warm.

[@eturnerx]

I'm a merino base layer guy because it fits the widest range of situations imo. I don't have to think about it as much. I get that high intensity activity, synthetics are better - but I'm still getting in merino to sleep.

[@brianluck84]

Wool for the win!

[@kellyname5733]

Thank you for telling us how you feel in synthetic thin 1st layer clothes. I too feel uncomfortable and down right cold. I have tried to like them but am miserable when using them. I really thought it was just me, thanks to you I know different. I am definitely going to bump it up to a wool blend of some sort. So helpful you are..thanks. Merry Christmas.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

You are making me feel great here as well. I kind of thought I was in the minority because I never read about this online. Since publishing this video there have been quite a few people like you and I who feel the same way. And yes, the Merino is the trick to a much more comfortable base layer for folks like you and I. Merry Christmas!

[@happycamper5193]

@@PlayingwithSticks looking for ideas. I start night shift tonight. I work outside. I have to wear outter layer Fire retardent 100% cotton jumpsuit. I have Merino wool for base layer. what would be a good mid layer to keep me warm with temperatures at 40°. If I cover the wool with a thermal is that defeating the purpose? I work with Sparks and welding. I forgot my FR jacket I'm working out of state and I don't want to spend a lot of money.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@happycamper5193 So in theory the moisture from your merino would eventually let out into the jumpsuit where it would accumulate. So I would try to get something that would quickly move the moisture from the merino to the jumpsuit. So basically a synthetic that breathes. I would look for a puffy down jacket that is very light weight. On the high price would be a patagonia nano puffy jacket. Incredibly light and packs small and is synthetic down. But I am pretty sure you could find some nice knockoffs at Backcountry.com using their backcountry brand or their Stoic brand. Hope this helps Donald.

[@PapaSMURFFS]

Add me to that list of people who feels cold in synthetics, and the list of people who is super glad to realize it's not just user error or something else strange that I'm doing wrong.

[@brianluck84]

Wool for the win, synthetic don't warm me like others claim

[@scottshoe842]

Blue jeans, Metallica tee shirt, ripped flannel and some white new balances. Super technical gear.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

YESSSS!!!!! 🎸 We don't heart a lot of comments. This one definitely comes with a heart.

[@scottshoe842]

All made from dyneema

[@gdoldays9964]

@@scottshoe842 🖐🏼😆

[@aerobill8554]

@@scottshoe842 I work at DSM, the company that makes Dyneema, so thanks !

[@rowanhealy]

@@scottshoe842 Hahaha!

[@roxus80]

Drew, great video. I can sum up my preference in 2 words, Merino Wool. I am 58 and have been hunting, hiking, camping since I was 8. Been through the cotton, synthetics, poly propylene and wool. I do like synthetics for some situations especially summertime camping during the day. For sleeping, atv riding, mild hiking, and colder weather camping its merino all the way. I wear Black Ovis Merino. It is fantastic, used to be Core 4 Elememt. I really like the 150 which is an 85/15 blend, very good wicking and drying. I wear the 200 which is an 97/3 blend when it is colder and we are not moving much. And speaking of the Patagonia Capilene, I bought the bottoms for my wife and now she understands what good base layers are, she loves them, so I got her the top and she wears them all the time camping and riding. She is always cold and these keep her warm. Anytime someone asks I always recommend merino wool.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Agreed! And thanks for sharing. I am a huge advocate now for the blends. Not just for cost, but also performance.

[@derekmcdaniel6029]

Cool. Dealing with cold is not an easy thing, so I have a lot a respect for your experience there. Thanks for the video.

[@OldPackMule]

As a sweaty old man I've experimented with base layers for years. I would agree 100% with all of what you've said with one modification. I wear loose fitting on all layers to allow more air circulation as you move for quicker drying. Also, if you put a little white vinegar in your wash you can kill the retained stink. If your garment has been worn many times and has lots of embedded stink you may need to wash several times with the vinegar to get the stink out. That wonderful waffle pattern of the Patagonia is available in many Polartec fabric made garments. The Melenzana hoodie is a backpacking favorite. On the topic of synthetics, they don't let your skin breath where the threads touch you so yes, they cause the surface of the skin to feel clammy. Think of wearing a trash bag with lots of little holes. Mechanically the moisture can and does escape but you still know you're wearing plastic.

[@sunset3052]

Thank you for your advice of vinegar.

[@wisenber]

You left out two categories, fishnet and its polar opposite the vapor barrier. Fishnets can be tight or loose as your perspiration leaves it as vapor moving into out layers. They also dry faster than any other garment of similar material. Vapor barrier is the opposite. You don't have evaporation heat loss as there is no evaporation. A big plus to vapor barriers is that your skin doesn't dry out as much in the cold, and they can keep a down bag or coat from getting perspiration in them. I've had success with both, but the vapor barrier type is best left for temps well below freezing. Fishnets work great for cold or heat as they absorb so little moisture. Really like fishnets with my drysuits.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We are starting to hear a lot about fishnet. I have never tried it myself. Excited to try it out soon. Especially the fishnet drysuit combo. Thanks for sharing.

[@luiscuervo8687]

Very good video. I’m a compulsive buyer of merino and I’d have 3 things to say: 250gr plus are middle layers rather than base layers. Their purpose is to keep you warmer when a puffy jacket might be too much to hike in. 2nd, the main advantage of merinos or any other wool over synthetics is the non-odour properties. The more you blend it with synthetics, the the odourless it will be. 50%-50% is not good enough for me but OK if price is an issue. I have 2 of those Pataginia Air Capilene tops: they are amongst the most comfortable, and thanks to their waffles which hold warm air, they are very warm for their weight. They are however only 50% merino, so they stick sooner. Another weakness is their fragility. Their stitches get caught very easily even on a finger pilled dry skin. Pulls stitches out. Not to be warn as an outer layer. Hope it helps

[@zerohero187]

If I'm buying merino wool my go to brands are Smartwool and Icebreaker. A bit expensive though. I work outside in the cold and find that the synthetic "polar weight" options from Terramar are fantastic. Not cheap but not as expensive as merino wool. I do prefer merino wool when I'm hiking though.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks for sharing this. Terramar is new to us.

[@meganallday]

Icebreaker 😍

[@blackspot4194]

As a roofer that works all winter in Canada, learning to dress while not getting overly bulked up ,because I need to stay flexible and need to move easily, on top of that I'm working so i start to sweat and that's when it gets dangerous. Layering is the way to go 100%. Awesome video my dude.

[@4touchdowns1game29]

A good tip that I used to do while skiing and snowboarding because you sweat is buy or make a light button up base layer under your shirt. As you go through the day and sweat you can just pull it off from outside and put it somewhere to dry and in the meantime either put on something else or just try not to sweat too much.

[@4touchdowns1game29]

Hardest thing is when you're forced to have to sweat in the snow. I had a mishap skiing one time I had to track through a bunch of powder so I couldn't help but sweat it was scary.

[@Mike-fs4vz]

I’m 4 minutes in and already learned so much. It makes you feel so much better when you’re purchasing clothes/equipment and you do so from an informed and knowledgeable perspective. Cheers mate, great video!

[@ProvidingSpam]

No

[@Mike-fs4vz]

@@ProvidingSpam Well said mate, very erudite, clear and concise and making total sense 👍

[@FlRiAfCeTLE]

I think synthetic pulls moisture from the skin so fast, that you can get get a sort of evaporative cooling affect. I too notice that synthetic makes my skin feel cold. Wool, on the other hand, pulls moisture off of your skin by absorbing it, and then releasing the vapor as a two step process. I’ve always noticed that wool makes my skin feel warm and dry.

[@hikersteph]

I scored a Patagonia Capilene shirt at a thrift store for 2 bucks and it's one of my favorites! On the PCT, I slept in a Paradox merino wool blend shirt that I got from Amazon, and Patagonia Capilene Midweight leggings (my favorite). Typically I hike in a polyester shirt and lightweight moisture-wicking pants. Long sleeve for winter or for exposed sunny hikes in summer. (Fair skinned gal, here!) Another favorite top is a Wolverine synthetic baselayer with a softer feel that I bought at Meijer during hunting season. I also have hiked a ton of miles in a lightweight + breathable, probably poly blend Hawaiian shirt from the thrift store during the summer. I honestly can't tell how bad I smell after a few days on trail, but that's me. With over 3,000 trail miles under my belt, I've realized base layers are an easy place to save some money and they can also be dependent on how they feel on you. They shouldn't be a barrier to getting out there.

[@diywarren1776]

My favorite top is a merino long sleeve I got from Costco about 20 years ago. Looks new and I feel it’s a base layer that does warm. Only the coldest weather I will need a base layer bottom. I’m from Canada

[@r_itchytrigger]

Haha, Im from Canada. Enough said. costco Merino wool socks are the best aswell. Im from Canada too so we know whats up!

[@i_know_youre_right_but]

@@r_itchytrigger are you from Canada by any chance?

[@maximepaquier9852]

Merino wool is life. Discovered it while working in a merino sheep farm in new zealand. I can't think of wearing anything else than this is the cold weather anymore. It's expensive but definitely go for it

[@tackoholic2334]

I'm a bigger guy but love the winter outdoors. I ski and fish for steelhead/salmon all winter. I've always been a person who is always hot and has no problem breaking a sweat. I've been utilizing merino wool base layers for the last few years. Obermeyer, Simms, and Patagonia all have top quality base layers in my opinion. I'm sure there are others but those are my personal favorite for a cpl reasons. 1. Obviously warmth when needed. 2. Comfort against bare skin. 3. The ability to allow excess body heat go so I do not overheat and start sweating profusely. 4. Their abilities to no stink when I'm living out of my truck for a week fishing and wearing the same base layers. Gross I know but I dont have convenient access to a shower and I'm 6hrs from home. Just my personal experience with base layers of it helps anyone.

[@DeanPattrick]

Hi, here in Finland I’m using the following: -6C to -12C it’s polyester vest, merino wool T-shirt and 2xu arm things with a soft shell. 2C to -5C polyester vest merino wool long sleeve and a windproof jacket. 8C to 3C then polyester vest, lightweight t shirt and windproof jacket, if it’s raining then use a hard shell. 😎

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We have been eyeing those 2XU compression sleeves. We have never tried them and were wondering why they were gaining so much popularity in town here. Thank you for sharing this Dean.

[@DeanPattrick]

@@PlayingwithSticks I highly recommend these sleeves, they have transformed how I layer up. Typically With a long sleeve I would sweat and then you end up with wet sleeves underneath the hard shell, soft shell or whatever you top layer is. But with these they somehow wick the sweat away without leaving you wet.

[@doug7399]

I have seen a lot of videos on gear for hiking yours was the most informative of all of those combined. NICE JOB !

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Glad it was helpful Doug!

[@pooterbilbo8132]

Really perplexed by the talk about merino wool shirts wearing out easily. I hike 2-4 times a week, ski all winter long and the same 3 smartwool shirts and 2 sets of long johns have lasted me years. Same with merino wool socks. Some of the most durable long lasting socks I've ever owned.

[@JeffCaldwell1969]

Long sleeved merino tees for winter base layer have changed my whole game. 190 GSM. I like the lightweight short sleeve stuff for the rest of the year or banging around the house. 150 GSM. Got rid of all cotton tees that aren’t concert crew shirts. Great video, thanks!

[@mikemead2315]

Great information! I need to watch this many times to absorb the knowledge! Thanks! My biggest problem lately is the unfathomable number of choices - most with the same marketing positive characteristics. I end up with a not-so-short list and buy nothing.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Was that pun intended "absorb"?

[@mikemead2315]

@@PlayingwithSticks Ahhh ..... lets say yes😉

[@XsimD]

Me, who lives in a hot climate and will probably never need this information: Interesting.

[@rayze686]

Thanks for the great video. I find we share a similar stance towards the feel of the materials. A couple things I figured I'd mention are that that common funk in the synthetics is often caused by body oils becoming separated from the water in one's sweat. If we geek out for a moment synthetic fibers are hydrophobic (where as wool, cotton, and silk are hydrophilic) which is why they wick so well but they do not want to absorb water. This can leave behind oils as the water gets wicked away more quickly. We all know that old saying about oil and water not mixing well. There are some fantastic sport washes available that are formulated to battle that oil in the washing machine that work wonders compared to a normal detergent. I couldn't agree more about the wool for longer trips. I through hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2014 and nearly everything I had was wool. Hat, t-shirt, long sleeve shirt, base layer bottoms, both pairs of underwear, and all of the my socks. I wore the same exact t-shirt every single day of my journey. It certainly took a beating and collected many holes over the months. The pack straps had some minor wear areas but the main area of trouble was the waist belt buckle pinching little holes in the front of the shirt. I had to finally retire the shirt in Killington VT when it had so many holes I was getting looks from strangers. The back had enough big holes that I could feel the straps rubbing on my skin. That shirt kept me wonderfully comfortable in all sorts of conditions; hot sunny days, multiple day rain storms, and the few times it dipped down below freezing. I couldn't bring myself to part with it so I mailed it home and after several washings it now lives in my closet as a keep-sake!

[@danielkutcher5704]

Synthetic fabrics are oleophilic. Body oils bond to the molecules in the fabric. THAT's why they tend to stink.

[@brianyoungberg8750]

Been hiking for 40 years and this is the best explanation of the pro/cons of the various options. I like my lightweight wool, but feels wet after a while. Also not happy with synthetic stuff, but may need to try some better synthetic stuff like Patagonia Capaline. Thanx’s again for this video, going to watch it again!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Glad this was helpful Brian. I can only imagine all the amazing things you have seen hiking. There is just something so special about that "what is around the next bend" feeling.

[@andrewstambaugh240]

Might need to add some controlled ventilation to the outer later then. Armpit zips are a high value moisture vent.

[@twilaLebold]

Hey, you’re great! Appreciated your presentation on base layers. We are going on a cruise to Norway, North Cape, it will be cool, even in August. I am in a power wheelchair and start my day freezing. I cannot stand the extra bulk of thermal underwear.I believe I will try the Marano wall and the 10% other thing. I don’t wanna pack a lot of stuff. Thanks for the education. I will just be sitting in my chair but want to be outside and still warm. Keep up the good work.

[@zetuljka]

I wear merino wool exclusively as a base layer, my kid too. Never liked synthetic materials against my skin and never bought them for winter layers no matter what the trend or marketing. And I find merino wool very durable, I own several pieces and they last, great odour regulating properties too. Wool doesn't like frequent washing, just hang it outside, fresh air, sun and wind will do the thing. Or do handwashing with gentle liquid. Money saving tip - buy merino layers second hand and go thrifting. All my merino clothing is thrifted and in excellent condition even after wearing myself for many years. Or buy on sales at the end of the season.

[@badbush2414]

Sorry, I prefer new collection Gucci

[@tinger8472]

I tried a lot of different baselayers for backcountry skiing over the years. Polyester, merino wool, polypropylen...By far the best is a super tight polyester baselayer made for road cycling. Don`t know why but I don`t run hot like I do with other polyester baselayers and it handles moisture exceptional. After i bought one (for about €15) i was so stoked i bought 3 more of it. Hope they last for ever.

[@dogsnskiing656]

I use both merino wool and the synthetic blends. For colder days, I feel the synthetic with the fleece lining(cheap generic brands) feel warmer next to skin, then top it with a midweight merino. I also have the one piece ninja suit which is super warm and comfy.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We just saw that ninja suit this year. Looks pretty cool. I was actually tempted to pick one up. But, May just gave me the look! She's right, I own way too many baselayers. Thanks for sharing your layering system. I will have to try that out.

[@WC3isBetterThanReforged]

I've had a kirkland merino wool base layers that I've used for snowboarding the past 8 season (about 40-50 days total use for each set) and each baselayer is still like new.

[@josilynl5265]

For extra stinky armpits, hand washing with dawn dish soap really helps reset the fabric!

[@hector5299]

I use fresh lemon juice. I always carry a small bottle in my pack. I will add water to my waterproof laundry bag, the lemon juice, squish it for a few minutes, then let it soak for a while… Rinse the base layers with fresh water and hang to dry. This always gives them a fresh lemony scent. Then I chill the lemonade then share it during my campfire stories. It’s a crowd favorite on hot summer nights!

[@MrCashewkitty]

Bought my first Merino baselayers last year for hunting. I was shocked at how well it performed compared to my usual Under Armor, etc, synthetics. I still use synthetics for work and workouts for their durability but for hunting, camping, hiking, it's Merino for me from now on.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

It’s quite the investment for your first time. But once you do it you realize that’s what it is , an investment in your comfort and performance. Took me a long time to jump over as well. And like you I still use both.

[@melizabeth908]

I wear two 100% merino wool sweaters. Medium and a looser large. I get them at Costco or the thrift store.

[@MobileAura]

There’s no replacement for merino wool base layer. It’s by far the best base layer, period. Cotton is dangerous, polyester stinks (also dangerous/bacteria). Make sure it’s 100% wool not 84% or whatever

[@jackj6361]

Why is cotton so bad? I walk 100s of miles and mountain climb down to -40c. I have only just started researching as my cotton stuff is thread bare after years of use. I do always use Merino socks though. Any reply with thanks

[@jackj6361]

Oh only use cotton as it feels nice, no probs with keeping clean, just wanted to lower the weight

[@m_soko]

@@jackj6361 alot of it depends on where you live/Hike. This isn't as much an issue in arid or dry climates. The difference is substantial when in a more humid climate as far as the moisture wicking/dry time.

[@jackj6361]

@@m_soko, I usually walk in the Himalayas but right now just finished The Cape Wrath trail in Scotland. Will be walking in Scotland through the winter so need a gear upgrade. Thank you very much for your reply :)

[@martinkevill8853]

Merino base layers for me. In the town where I live (Wigan) I find a damp 2c day worse than a dry minus day! 😊👍❤️🇬🇧

[@theoutdoordad7395]

100% spot on, great overview of base layers! I find I tend to prefer merino wool for cooler temps or when I'm going to be camping and don't want build up a stink, but am not being super active. For me, even the thinnest merino isn't comfortable when its hot outside and much prefer synthetic base layers in warmer weather. Patagonia Capilene is my favorite for comfort and performance. We always found cheaper decent synthetic base layers for kids at Target/Costco, etc.

[@Swearengen1980]

Agree. People who say merino wool isn't hot in warmer weather doesn't know what warm weather is. You'll get heat stroke if you wear that in Florida 6 months out of the year. I love merino wool for winter, hunting, or heading north. For summer hiking though? Nope.

[@theoutdoordad7395]

@@Swearengen1980. 100%. It’s unbearable at southern summer temps and humidity.

[@Swearengen1980]

@@theoutdoordad7395 There's no material that moisture wicks away deep south humidity. Actually I need more layers/warmer clothes in Florida at 50 degrees than I do 30 degrees in the Appalachians. The lack of humidity there, that's a beautiful, crisp cold. Humidity just ruins everything.

[@robertjones-iv7wq]

I'm a wool freak, since my pre-school days of Manitoba to -50 and forced tp play outside until supper. Playing in the snow, getting soaked back then instructed me for the rest of my life. As a winter mountain guide doing overnight & full week pack-ski trips, wool served me well, and it was on every "must-buy" prep list for participants. I've turned away those who showed up & didn't meet my clothing requirements because I didn't want to call in mountain rescue or have someone die on my watch, or just make everyone else miserable.

[@walterluszczyk]

For all my activities (hiking, running & crossfit even) I'm using 100% merino wool from Icebreaker. Merino wool is enormous fabric. It's still comfortable if it is wet. I tried some cheaper brands and wool mixes with synthetic but it not compares to Icebreaker for me at all.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thank you for sharing. We have received a lot of positive comments about icebreaker on here.

[@ColoradoStreaming]

I have been happy with Icebreaker as well. They are expensive but their wool blend boxers are great when hiking or when its hot and you dont want to have swamp ass all day.

[@EduardoBach01]

I agree with your statement that synthetics feel clammy although they are dry. It feels on the brink of cold to me. Today I only wear an ordinary lightweight merino pullover on top of a t-shirt, and it does the trick quite well. My theory is that because the synthetics take away sweat too quickly, along with sweat goes the warmth, and you never feel really warm in it. Once I went hiking at -10c wih a t-shirt, a polypropilene baselayer, a mid fleece, and a down jacket; I was freezing! I a had a spare merino pulli on my backpack-- the moment I put it on, the heat came back instantly :O

[@ModernDayPilgrim]

My husband says the same thing. He feels “clammy” when he wears synthetics. He ice fishes and definitely believes in base layers!

[@cedricpilloton9688]

For stinking synthetics, spray white vinegar onto sweat areas BEFORE washing. It won't work on already stinking fabric, but will prevent new ones to stink for a long time.

[@amiejo]

For those looking for very affordable base layers for littles, 32 deg kids sets are great for the price. Costco carries them seasonally and usually has them marked down to

[@robertbenner3189]

32 degrees is a good name (I have several sets) because below 32 degrees they don’t work. Wool all the way

[@aoj53]

Absolutely love Costco thermals! Cali here so not super cold but nice for layering

[@AlpacaMade]

This was the vid I needed to see because I am changing base layers. I am going to challenge the teasers regarding silks; you never talked about them. They are *not* good in the winter. The material itself gets cold and against your skin it makes you colder than if you were just wearing jeans. Late spring, summer and early fall they are a dream to sleep in. I am just about to toss my ThermaSilks because they have the same fragility as nylon stockings. But....they are a dream to sleep in! Mine lasted 5 months in my very own bed, cannot say I would ever rely on them on trail.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks for sharing your experience with silk. We appreciate that. Based on your channel name I assume you have tried alpaca. Many folks have it right up there with Smartwool.

[@AlpacaMade]

@@PlayingwithSticks It is lovely durable fiber with no itchies. However, the U.S. alpaca breeders have a terrible time getting their fiber to market on a large scale. Many have joined a fiber collective to get their alpaca fiber processed and spun. There are a couple of cottage companies who manufacture for hikers - spendy but so worth it!

[@marielledevaal6029]

I love the merino shirts from decathlon they do the job very well and stay smell free for a Long time and they are very afordable.

[@plumbgray]

Yes me too my favourite really good price and look smart too

[@rowanhealy]

Decathalon have some real bargain items, their light down jacket is a total no brainer..

[@dereinzigwahreRichi]

Indeed they are truly great! I'm wearing one of that long sleeves right now, at home because it feels so good. :-) Some of their short sleeve shirts even got differently structured pieces in the arm pits to help ventilation there.

[@Messiahs]

Yeah if you dont care for the way the sheep are treated and the workers are paid...

[@dereinzigwahreRichi]

@@Messiahs basically you are right, we should watch what we are buying. The sad thing is: you'll never get a garanty that everyone is treated well until you either personally visit and follow along for the whole production process or you do it yourself. Nowadays social media seems to be an excellent tool for transparency but also is one to create the illusion thereof. So who guarantees to me that the 100€ Merino shirt isn't sewed by the same person in Indonesia than the 35€ one from Decathlon? And that they don't buy their wool from the same farm but only much more of it on a regular base which enables the farmer to plan ahead bigger and offer it for a better price? I'm not saying this is the case and I'm not defending Decathlon in particular, it's just an example. I just wish I had better information for my buying decision then to blindly trust what some premium companies SAY that they're doing better...

[@martinstajer1826]

I am super heating person, I can ski tour in a single base layer and feel overheating and sweating like hell, so I have a rich experience with layering combos. I would like to mention two types of base layers, that werent in the video. Brynje of norway, quite weird looking but awesome net base layer, take this, put another thin base layer over it and you will feel nice and dry while the top fabric will be soaking wet and evaporating, also works great to keep you warm. Another, not yet tried by me, are new natural materials, that should give you the best from merino and synthetics, not smelly and dry fastly, for example Natex by uyn - I have first clothing from them to try this winter, wish me luck

[@MrBphinson1977]

This was a great video. Very informative and dispelled a lot of misinformation and misconceptions. Being ex-military, I'm kind of biased towards synthetic polypropylene (know as polypro for military folks). It was part of our ECW (extreme cold weather) issue. 100% polypropylene top and bottom. From my experience, it's pretty hard to beat in terms of being fully comprehensive; it pretty much does everything. Also, from a price point standpoint, it's very economical and affordable; about $50 for a top/bottom combo. It won't look pretty and fancy like the name brand stuff, yet it does the job. Happy outdoors-ing to everyone! 😁

[@scottbutler1561]

What a fantastic and accurate presentation on base layers. I think that the difference between wicking and absorbing fabric in regard to synthetic fabrics needs to be better explained by the industry. No synthetic will ever wick or absorb more moisture efficiently than natural fiber. The synthetics do transport the moisture more efficiently to be evaporated and prevent saturation though. This process of moisture transport is commonly marketed as a "wicking" property. Try to pick up a small puddle of liquid with both to see the difference. This is why natural base layers don't feel clammy when you exert yourself until they are saturated. If your body produces more vapor that can be transported through your 100% synthetic base later to be evaporated, you'll have puddles. I'm glad to see the new hybrid natural/synthetic layers coming out as a more effective solution to moisture management. The other solution I find more effective is the use of polypropylene fishnet layers from a Norweigan company. Yes, the smell is heinous, but as a 250 lb backpacker, all of my vapor is absorbed by my second layer and passed or not completely passed through. Regardless, my skin is dry. I've found through my decades of military and hiking/climbing experience, that this system works best. My initial exposure to effective outdoor cold management was from the opinionated man in Colorado back in the late 80's. Although controversial, I've found him to be an accurate source of information as well. Great video, thanks - I just subscribed.

[@maykouhansen6713]

Great video! Base layers are soooooooo important! I really love the smart wool and Patagonia brands! They are awesome! The story about hypothermia sounds scary!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Honestly, I always thought Smart Wool was a bit of marketing hype as well. But, after owning a ton of it. It really isn't that it is a special wool (many times they even have blends). What it comes down to for me is the stitching. The products feel right against your skin and inside your shoes. They are designed to be form fitting, but still move with your body. Now Patagonia I can't speak to as I have only owned about 3 of their items. But, all three have lasted over 15 years now. So I guess that says something.

[@jessa.3857]

Those are the 2 companies I've been getting my gear from the past few years for my outdoor training through the winters here in NYC.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@jessa.3857 Oh man. I have seen some of Casey Neistat's videos and it sure looks cold there in the winter! I can definitely see how you would benefit from those two brands.

[@elyssarespaut9053]

Also look into icebreaker for 100% wool. They have various weights of wool (lightweight for summer) then 200 or 250 for winter. I’ve done upstate ny hikes in December/January with 200 and 250 layers paired a scarf or gaiter, hat and gloves and have been comfy/hot in 20-30f temps. Additionally I’ve worn the 200 in the summer 90f bike rides and was a little hot but also didn’t get sunburn. Now I do the lightweight and I love it, and don’t need to put on sunblock on my arms since the sleeves cover me

[@jessa.3857]

@@elyssarespaut9053 I know about them from the same place I found out about smartwool and patagonia, a bike forum! 5 years ago, i decided I wanted to bike through the winter so i started doing my research online on forums and came across some great recommendations! I don't bike below 15F because it's too brutal for me and the gear I'd need is beyond me financially, lol. It's also very cumbersome to put on all that gear everytime you want to go for a quick ride. Zaps the joy out of the experience for me.

[@gnssexpert]

A Helmet Liner Skull Cap Beanie is also important, especially in wind. It fits under any hat and it is easy to take off if you start to overheat.

[@ailienrhijnsburger5178]

Great video, just one thing: As a nature lover, I would have loved it if you would have included environmental concerns in your review. Polyester and acrylic are plastics. Wool can be composted at the end of its lifecycle, and it doesn't shed any microfibers into our drinking water when it is washed!

[@ailienrhijnsburger5178]

@beechandoak Your video was great and I really loved your advice, my comment wasn't meant as criticism. I learned things I did not know about baselayers. I mentioned the environment as I would have loved it if you mentioned those environmental considerations, as it informs my choices. But maybe that is something you can touch on in a different video. You probably know more than I do, or at least can find out more than I can...

[@PlayingwithSticks]

These are great points. Honestly I never even thought about this before. I will now.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks for sharing. We appreciate it.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We did not take that as criticism at all. We really appreciate what you shared. And honestly we do not know more than you. Learning new things everyday on here.

[@andyeunson270]

I have lots of merino undershirts and I like them for moderate activity. For heavy workouts though you can’t beat Lifa By Helly Hansen. Real polypropylene. If I go Nordic skiing in wool, it gets wet. I drive home about 20 minutes and it’s still wet. Polypro will be dry. So for long backcountry days I prefer polypropylene. Plus it wears like iron. I have polypropylene undershirts that are six seven years old whereas the merino is fragile and becomes kind of “crispy” after a couple seasons. I also really like the pro wool which is blend of merino and polypropylene. I also fing wool when it’s older reeks when wet.

[@kris.monroe]

Thank you so much for this thorough, thoughtful and helpful video! I would love your take on mid-layers and beyond. Maybe a full how-to-layer properly video. I feel like I see people covering segments but not the whole package. Thank you! Absolutely subscribed.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks Kris! We would love to do that video, but honestly we are not the right people to talk mid-layers. Not that we don't use them. We have tons in the house! But, we are so frugal we have never spent more than $50 on a midlayer, minus my most recent midlayer from Backcountry. With the base layers it was an easier video to make because I have worn base layers from $10-$150 and numerous brands. Unfortunately I have no idea how nice a "real" mid layer is. Sounds like something I will have to try next winter.

[@kris.monroe]

@@PlayingwithSticks Very understandable! Thank you for taking the time to reply.

[@meisjeViv]

@@PlayingwithSticks actually I'd be very interested to hear about your layering on top of the base layers, especially if you are frugal about it and don't really use 'nice' middle layers!

[@CleonAthens]

Excellent video. As British Army i wore Helly Hansen lightweight base layers whej i was on my section commanders battle course in Brecon in middke of uk winter. The HH was very light but that got me through the snowbound course very well. I ireferred the summer lightweight version over the winter heavier base. Great video, subscribed.

[@ericb.4358]

BEST for me? I like polyester base layers. Formerly I bought Cabela's in different rights. After Cabel's was bought and ruined by Bass Pro Shops. So now it's LLBean or anything made of Polartec fleece. Believe me I've used everything from Norwegian wool fishnet to lots of polypropylene and finally polyester, which I really like. BTW, gridded polyester as a heavy layer does "wick" (transport body vapor) pretty well. BTW, in my experience nylon is the worst synthetic for passing vapor. Now have a new set of Brynje Norwegian fishnet tops & bottoms of polypropylene. Love fishnet and I'm finally back to it.

[@Zoltoks]

100 percent agree with your assumption on synthetics leaving you clammy. This is because synthetic doesn't "condition" the air at all. If the material cant absorb moisture within the strand, than it cant condition moisture and humidity. Wool leaves you feeling dry cool, whereas synthetic leaves you clammy cool.

[@alangauld6079]

I had 2 baselayer shirts from Rohan in the mid 1980s. It is fantastic but I don't know the name of the fabric. Feels like cotton but wicks like modern synthetic. Sadly they don't make 'em any more and they are wearing out after 40 years. So I recently bought Merino and it performs just as well. I have a long and short-sleeved option and in the winter wear both. It's the best I've found so far. But I have recently started buying wet weather gear from Paramo and that works so well I'm now considering their base/mid layer system which is synthetic based... So who knows... Great video, thanks for sharing.

[@Curry952]

Great video! I’ve always just strayed from cotton as a general rule. But, I’ve also been less than impressed by that clammy feeling of my synthetic layers.

[@Curry952]

AND… Really appreciate the note on kids’ base layers!

[@ColoradoStreaming]

Icebreaker has some really good wool and wool blend base layers.

[@AlbertsDad]

I've started using a Brynje mesh base with a close fitting merino over the top, next a fleece and then featherweight windshirt followed by lightweight waterproof shell.. works brilliantly. Not my idea, just what I've learnt from various youtube videos and comments.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I've been hearing a lot about this system the last few years. Thanks for sharing.

[@guidospanoghe8896]

A polypropylene mesh baselayer under my Merino undershirt keeps me a lot ! dryer and warmer during and after cold intensive weather mountainbiking!

[@robertmangum5101]

Thrift stores yield fantastically cheap 100% merino, silk, cashmere, and even (insert drum roll)…..alpaca!

[@missourimongoose7643]

I didn't know Martha's vineyard had thrift stores lol

[@robertmangum5101]

@@missourimongoose7643 Hotlanta 🔥 Cat Daddy!

[@sdericmonty]

@@missourimongoose7643 laughed pretty good at that one

[@psoon04286]

We’re relatively new in N.America(BC, Canada)and have been enjoying the wonderful and beautiful outdoors. Information like what’s discussed in this video has been of immense help in picking the right clothing for an enjoyable experience. Liked and sub👍😊

[@TAVAAR7]

New sub, great info and way to turn a traumatic experience into a way to have a positive affect for yourself and others. 🙂 How about wicking for in hot weather to keep you cool (or for people like me that run warmer/heat up super fast and start becoming miserable at 75-80°+ before any added excercise)?

[@tigerrx7]

Love this! As a Caribbean immigrant in the northeast, I’ve been doing it wrong for 18 years. About time I get it right since I love vacationing in Northeast all year. Cotton be gone!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Glad this was helpful. For me it took going into a hypothermic state to take it seriously. But I wish I would have made the switch sooner.

[@plumbgray]

Really excellent informative video learnt plenty in there .... thank you 😊 Love Decathlon Merino for long treks non smelly after 14 days in Himalayas but also really like Helly Hansen Lifa been using for 35 years while running simply the best apart from the smell 👃 hence the phrase smelly helly

[@sunshinesill2720]

I am completely addicted to baselayers. Lately I've been really enjoying the Kari Traa line. There's full merino along with blends. The blends feel the nicest against my skin, but the full merino keeps me from feeling clammy.

[@NvrMre00]

I actually sweat more when I wear synthetics (sheets or clothing). I’m always surprised to see people say it’s a good option to use for base layers

[@brianmgrim]

HeyDude: What particular characteristics of synthetic fabrics do you think causes you to sweat more? I.E., what is the mechanism which brings about your biological response?

[@HaemonAK]

Hello fellow Alaskans! Getting ready to buy some new base layers for the Steese highway caribou hunt and was so happy I found your videos instead of some lower 48er video. Haven't seen one of your videos for about a year, but have loved your content. Hope to run into you guys out camping one of these days.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I'm a bit jealous. Going up the Steese sounds great! We only make it to the Eureka area in terms of Carribou. That's typically the end of the road for us during fall camping.

[@HaemonAK]

@@PlayingwithSticks I've actually never been that way, towards Manley. Although we did some work for customers up in Manley so I'm sure I'll get a chance to go up there soon. It sounds like the hot springs is going to be reopening soon. Do you recommend a state camp ground up that way or just doing a pull off? We've got a big Coleman popup, can put it about anywhere.

[@bmdt81]

This was very helpful, thank you. I've been Mountain biking and struggling with keeping warm, especially when we stop, and my sweaty shirt gets cold. Then it takes a really long time to warm up again. I'll try the tight base layer methods and see if that helps.

[@andyeunson270]

Defeet make a nice sleeveless undershirt. I always wear one under a short sleeve jersey. Or Lifa short sleeve or long sleeve undershirt under long sleeves.

[@bmdt81]

@@andyeunson270 Thanks for the recommendation. I'll check it out.

[@Tensioner]

Keep a light jacket and warm hat in your pack. Synthetic shirts don't hold much water and dry fast. Lots of choices, you just have to find what you like but hard to go totally wrong with Patagonia.

[@alexanderweaver4838]

I love to overland camp and find that merino wool keeps me warm in my sleeping bag or under my quilt. I do occasionally use an alpaca wool liner and wear an alpaca wool poncho while sitting around the campfire. While bushcraft camping I wear a base layer of merino wool, a fleece with a wool anorak over the fleece and stay dry and warm. My military poncho keeps me dry during rain. That capilene sounds interesting and I love anything by Patagonia and Eddie Bauer. Congratulations on having a successful YT channel. You have a beautiful family.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks for sharing your gear. These are the type of comments we just love to read. Also thanks for the really kind comment.

[@carriemainquist757]

I just love smart wool. Costly - yes. But so worth it. I also have wool t-shirts for in the summer and they are so much better than cotton.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We have never tried a wool T-shirt, we’re going to have to try that. Thanks Carrie.

[@sporff]

Agreed. Theyre my go-to for cold weather.

[@albertarose1433]

Well, first, really great video. 👍🏻I’m currently a western Washingtonian, born and raised in MN, and lived in Anchorage for 16 years. I love winter outdoors. Sooo, I wear a thin cotton layer with smartwool over it, then a layer of down and Gortex. I have allergies to wool directly against my skin so I had to come up with something. I can layer and take off as needed. But, if you of know something synthetic I can tolerate against my skin I’m game to try it! You post great stuff! Enjoy Alaska while you’re there. I miss her so. ⛄️

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Okay, this is the most intriguing post I have read in a long time. Please tell us more about the cotton and layers. We are huge fans of the feel cotton, but not how it performs. Do you find that having a thin layer of cotton is thin enough to allow the SmartWool to wick away the moisture from the cotton? Have you ever tried this with a synthetic? Your layering sounds textbook in terms of wool/down/breathing outerlayer that stops the wind. In theory this sounds like it has potential. Second question. This may be a bit too personal. Are you sweat a lot? Or do you know anyone who has tried this technique in your family who sweats average or above? You have lived in some amazing locations! So fun to meet a fellow Alaskan on here. It doesn't happen that often. We are cherishing every moment up here. Sometimes it feels surreal that we get to live and recreate in such a beautiful place. But, there are still moments where we wake up and say "better get going because we only have a few hours of light." Those days can be pretty rough when you have young kiddos. We find that equates to about .5 to 1 hour of actual light our family gets to experience :)

[@vicsanchez7034]

I bought the new Patagonia base layer for xc ski, and winter running. 👌👌 100% recommended. It doesn’t hold smell so I’m able to wear it up to 3 days in a row. Gross? Not really! Truly it doesn’t hold smell 👍👍

[@susie9893]

This was a VERY helpful video! As an Aussie from the subtropics I always feel like a babe in the woods when it comes to using base layers effectively, and as you say, with all the misinformation out there it's been confusing for me (I LOVE the snow but never even saw any till my mid-thirties). So thankyou for correcting a lot of my misapprehensions.

[@bobw9297]

I still love my cotton around the camp fire and hanging out , but i use the blends when I am out and about .

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Love it. I am pretty sure I already responded to this. But, love it so much looks like I am doing it again.

[@Dillwagon]

Duckworth Co out of Montana is my go to. I wear there 150gsm “Vapor Hoody”(38% Montana Merino Wool, 50% recycled Polyester, 12% Modal) as my base layer. It’s easily the best base layer I’ve ever used hot or cold. Extremely durable, odor resistant and fast drying. Then a Appalachian gear hoody (100% alpaca) for my mid layer. For legs I use the duckworth comet leggings which is a two ply garment. The layer against your skin is 100% polyester while the outer layer is 100% merino wool. The polyester is hydrophobic so it pulls the moisture off your skin and throws it into the wool where it will evaporate. A puffy jacket and lightweight gortex shells and I’m good to go

[@sumporfuk]

Believe it or not, I have recently discovered the power of the fishnet. I am wearing a 100% fishnet shirt as my base layer and have been experimenting with the various other synthetic base layers on top of the fishnet. Thanks for the heads up on that Patagonia Capilene Air base layer, because I think that is just the ticket that I’ve been looking for to go over the fishnet shirt. I am also wearing synthetic underwear from Decathlon followed by the fishnet base layer pants and topped off with another synthetic base layer. I’m telling you, those fishnets really make a world of difference. I will be wearing the fishnets in the summer months as well. Of course I am a motorcycle rider and need to be able to peel off or don various pieces of gear as the climate changes, while also keeping the bulk down to a silent roar 🦁

[@stevec3872]

Merino wool is great and I only discovered it maybe 8 or 9 years ago. It was at the end of winter and here in Wisconsin I was at Menard's (think Home Depot) and they had their winter socks marked down and they had merino wool socks for a dollar a pair so I bought a few. They were so great I went back and bought all the pairs that store had and got more from another across town. In all I bought over 20 pairs of high merino blend socks and I am still wearing them right now. In fact I wore these socks all year around, even in the summer where they kept my feet dry. The particular ones I bought from back then wear well in the heels but I have bought newer ones where the heels have holes in them at the end of the 1st winter from wearing them around the house. So now I have merino wool tops and long johns as well.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

$1 that is amazing! We have had the same experience. Our first round of merino wool socks were pretty thick. And surprisingly we ended up using them during summer as well. Lately we have been purchasing the thinner socks. So far no rips yet. But, our thicker ones are starting to go in the heels. Would love to have more pairs like you some day. They are a bit of an investment. But, with your story it sounds like if you keep your eyes open you can find some pretty good deals. Thanks for sharing Steve!

[@stevec3872]

@@PlayingwithSticks It may have been only last winter when I took the new tag off the last pair of those merino wool socks I bought all those years ago. I did give some away though. It might not have come to a lot of money, but those socks may have been the best buy for the use that I've ever gotten.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@stevec3872 Those would make some great presents. And make sure to save a few for the apocalypse. Probably will be one of the highest forms of currency :)

[@vsolheia6]

For high activity in cold weather, or if you just sweat a lot in general like me, I find that nothing works better than synthetic mesh. Thats also what the norwegian military uses. Also combines very well with wool baselayer on top for extreme cold.

[@DanOneDr]

I am a snowblower, and salter I sweat alot pushing snow, from NY Been trying to find right combination of layers for years . This new synthetic stuff though I like wool Thanks for info,good stuff!

[@ChukesOutdoorAdventures]

Great video! Very informative. I've always loved Smartwool!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Glad you enjoyed it! I wish we could say we always loved it. The first time we tried it was only maybe 5-10 years ago. Before that it was just standard itchy wool. Loved the wool, hated the itch.

[@heavenbound45]

I feel the best in wool. It just makes me feel better knowing I am wearing something natural. I don't want plastics on my largest organ, the skin.

[@davidthomson802]

Whoa. At first I was like, what's this guy gonna know driving around in insulated trailers. Like, I've done Wim Hoff and so on. And then boom, serious cold immersion stuff. Suddenly I'm paying close attention. And yeah, for the base layer, that says very clearly what I guess I've just had as an intuition. So thank-you for that.

[@DwFritz23]

With the discovery earlier this year of microplastics in the majority of blood tested, makes me really want to shy away from synthetics all together. We are perhaps, unknowingly, changing our biology for convenience.

[@mdub2000]

What is the alternative that have the same wicking property?

[@adampilarski7083]

@@mdub2000People stayed warm in the cold before the 1950s

[@mdub2000]

@@adampilarski7083 yes so do they have better alternatives now in 2024 that are reasonably affordable

[@Msasha2727]

I think wool is the way to go I worry about the plastics too.

[@udance4ever]

been wearing an allen-a base layer for 40 yrs (now vintage!). Was recommended Stanfield's 2 layer wool blend that gave me the same reaction u had to the Patogonia - will test it on the trail next wkd & time w tell on durability!!

[@hectoraceves1494]

I wear close fitting merino wool sweaters I bought at a second hand store

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Nice! That is what we are always looking for as well. Harder to find today because everyone is converting the second hand sweaters into gloves up here.

[@christiankuwetter7593]

uuh

[@tbrew8222]

I do the sweaters too! If you dont find them itchy, a tighter fitting button up like pendelton can be found cheap second hand and works great for wool against skin benefits. I had a friend sew my old ones with worn elbows into pants.. they look odd (different color plaid below the knee) but have outlasted several merino 250 bottoms and are still going.. but you also have to be less sensitive to rougher wools. I wear a lot of wools. Lighter weights are great in the hot weather too. Peoples stigmas always make them say "Im getting hot just looking at you" if they know its wool, while I'm thinking: "I feel clammy dirty and nasty just looking at your nylon and cotton." I also like the MKM brand "shearers singlet" and Tee. It is a bit itchy at first and almost sweater thick but they felt over in a months wear or a few washes in a machine, and they just get tougher every year (as the felting builds up) I think they are going to last forever. The tee has a big "euro" kind of collar though, hard to get used to it as a mans shirt, but I love the wool. I may get a few xxl ones and make a pair of forever sweatpants. I do not have a lot of merino, I am poor. If I spend the money on something, I need it to last.

[@hectoraceves1494]

brew I too have noticed the same felting that occurs with constant use. I plan on buying lanolin to treat my rougher, heavier wools...I have read this makes the water resistant, but reduces their breathability.

[@Stariana19]

Me too. I look for all natural pure fibers at the thrift stores. I usually find treasures.

[@patrick.991]

I completely switched to Merino for hiking and I really like a slim body fit for baselayers. I too own warm Odlo baselayers bit I don't wear them that often. Even in summer I often wear a thin Merino tanktop as baselayer under my merino shirt.