Trad Gang
Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: South MS Bowhunter on November 25, 2015, 12:06:00 AM
-
Looking at getting a set of base layers for hunting during the December - February portion of our Mississippi deer season.
This is normally when the temp start to get in the 30 to 20 down South on some days.
What is your opinion on KUIU compared to First Lite base layering systems?
I plan to wear Asbell wool as an outer garment.
I researched and see where KUIU is promoting a "NUYARN" Technology of making Merino wool, anyone have any experience with this new garments?
-
Also on the KUIU website I cannot find any base layer bottoms listed. What am I missing here? Everything is top's only :dunno:
-
For me, I'd go with First Lite
-
Mike,
Thanks for your reply, but based on what reason (s) Price there comparable, Quality? Durability? Comfort? Ect....
-
On the KUIU site, I think if you don't see it, then they are out of stock. I was looking at a down vest when the sale was announced, then it just was not there any more once I wanted to buy it. I dug around for a while before I finally found it listed as out of stock.
I have no clue which is better, but I have several of the FL layers (tops, not base layers) and they are top notch. They keep you warm with a lot less bulk.
Bisch
-
I haven't tried KUIU, but have 90% of First Lite' offerings, I couldn't be happier. Their base layers are extremely comfortable, either chasing pronghorn when it's 90 degrees, or last weekend chasing muleys when it was cold to beat heck.
They keep you cool when it's warm, and warm when it's cold. They really help dissappear sweat, don't smell after wearing them days on end in elk camp, I feel they are a great value based on the performance you get.
I would wear their red desert boxers every day if I could afford too, they are unreal.
-
Dissapate* sweat
-
That is tough. I really like my Kuiu. But have heard fantastic things about First light. I will be trying them out myself.
-
What about durability? And care of garments, can you just wash and dry and not worry about shrinkage?
-
First Lite has some of the best quality base layers in the business at fair prices but the main reason I'd go with FL over KUIU is availability and customer service
-
I have used the KUIU base layers (and most everything else KUIU makes) since they first came out and am extremely satisfied with them. Satisfied enough that I have two new sets of bottoms and three tops being delivered today (according to the FedEx tracking). The ones I have had for the past five years are still working great, the new ones are for back up. As Barry and Gene always say, if you find something that works, buy extras before they stop making it. Regarding service, in my experience KUIU's service has always been first rate.
I have no experience with the First Lite, so I cannot comment about their products. They do look to be similar.
-
Having had both base layers I would go with the FL line just because of durability issues. I spent good money on a few tips and the sleeves stitching isn't as good. Just at the sleeves. Maybe I was just unlucky. I love both camos but really like the FL better in my opinion.
-
First Lite is having a sale starting tonight on some items
-
I haven't tried Kuiu or FL but the Minus 33 base layers are nice. I have them in both the medium and heavy weights. The heavy weight Minus 33 is actually a bit heavier weave than the FL and can be found for a good bit less.
-
Cant speak for Kuiu, but the FL stuff it really nice. I will say that the base layer top (Llano), while comfortable, is not durable enough to move through brush that may snag it, it will get holes in it. In my opinion is great as a base layer, but not quite durable enough to be worn alone in those warmer temps. I got a cheap poly shirt to wear over it or in place of it if needed.
Oh, yeah. Get some red river boxers. They are awesome! Probably the most comfortable underwear ever.
-
Never had first lite but my 210 merino kuiu top is the nicest piece of clothing i own.
-
Keep it coming guys would like to hear more before the FL sale starts tonight.
Wish KUIU had some base bottoms listed to compare, but it appears as Bisch said there sold out.
-
TTT
-
TTT
-
I'm a big fan of first lite. Have every weight top they make. The first Llano I bought about 5 years ago is tattered, but I wear it as an outer layer in warm and cool weather. I wash and dry their knit merino products with no shrinkage issues. In pretty tall so could use another inch or two of torso length, but that's my only complaint. Didn't stop me from buying more. Availability can be an issue if buying direct. They don't seem to restock too frequently and I think their dealers must get priority when new shipments arrive. Customer service is good. I love the fit and feel of the kanab pants made with a rip stop weave. Durability isn't the greatest on that particular product though they may have addressed that in the kanab 2.0. I hunt a lot of briars so hey get out to the test.
-
I think you would be hard pressed to find a better merino garment than the Chama from first lite. I only had one before the sale, and wore it everyday during two elk hunts, and wore it everyday as a base layer while hunting deer last year. Still going strong this year, but I ordered a few more during the sale. I also have a labrador, which is much thicker than the Chama, and also use that as a base layer for cold weather hunting. I have seen and handled the KUIU merino, although I have not worn them. There is a big difference in quality, IMHO.
-
I have the FL Chama top and love it. I chose it over KUIU due to its 100% merino wool. The K has some poly in it and I was concerned about smell during a week long elk hunt. (Of course after a week of wearing the same thing anything will smell.)
I have several KUIU outerwear pieces and love them. Just got the Teton jacket that will replace my wool shirt for the outer layer next year.
For my base layers, if I'm going with merino wool, I want it to be 100%. That's why I chose FirstLite
My outer layers, synthetic water resistant, light weight, and stretchy. KUIU is my choice and I really like the Vias camo.
-
Both are great but I still only have my First Lite.
-
I have a first lite llano top that I wear a lot for a base layer. I've had it for a few years and its held up great. Got a great deal on it from the bargain cave at cabelas. I just ordered some kuiu when they had their sale. Trying out the 210 merino top and the 200 peloton. As mentioned before if a kuiu item is out of stock, it wont show up on their site. They had a big sale a week or so ago and lots of stuff is out of stock.
-
Thanks everyone for your comments. I went ahead and order 3 garments from FL since the sale price was to good to pass up.
If I need more and like it I can always get more later.
For now I got the Llano crew neck, Chama QZ, and the Allegheny Mid wt bottoms.
-
I have both Kuiu and FL,
The FL is pure merino, soft against your skin...good quality Core 4 another mfr is equal
The Kuiu blend is good and a bit tougher/more durable-
I prefer the 100% merino though
-
So far, no issues with my FL merino, comfortable, tough and no shrinkage. If anything, it's faded a little, but I think it's due to the sunlight and the constant washing.
-
Ryan,
Seeing your in a tropical climate with heat and high humidity at times how does FL perform? Is it as cool as they say? Wicking sweat from the body and keeping you dry?
I hunted this past Saturday and the temps were reaching the high 70's with 90% humidity.
-
I would give a nod to firstlight for a base layer. I really like mine.
-
John,
The humidity is high here as well, but not as high. For me, when the temps hit the high 80's and above, the Llano is too hot when I'm climbing and there is no wind. It does wick, but with no wind and high humidity, I do stay damp when exerting myself.
They are currently working on something you're looking for. I am actually testing it right now. I can't say too much at this point in time, but I can say it's cooler than the current Llano. It's going to be part of their hot weather apparel. If all goes well, First Lite will should be releasing the start of this product line by February.
-
I would recommend firstlight for a base layer. I really like mine.
-
John
By the time Summer rolls around, I'm occasionally hunting in shorts. LOL! I can use the Llano up to about May, but by the time June rolls around and our cool breezes dissipate, I need to switch to a "synthetic". The only problem is that I start to really stink by mid day.
(http://i.imgur.com/rGZyrP0.jpg)
If possible, I prefer wool for it's all around versatility.
(http://i.imgur.com/wBjgA13.jpg)
But there are months in the year when I need synthetics. Hopefully their new hot weather apparel will solve this concern of mine.
Once I get the OK, I'll be sure to post more info about the hot weather apparel from First Lite. So far it's been working out well.
-
Thanks Ryan, I'll keep and eye open for the news!
Here during the early fall and start of our season October 1st the temps are still in the high 80's and even low 90" at times. At these times I stick with cotton as it keep me cooler, but the draw back is scent control.
I have some Synthetic but don't like them at all, they feel too clammy and like you said they stink easily.
-
I just placed my first order with KUIU