Base layer...how should it fit?

[German Dog]

I'm looking to pick up another pair of some new merino wool base layers. The ones i have now fit a little loose and am wondering if they instead should be a little snug fitting to help pull any moisture off the body faster?


thank you,
Ed

[TxAg]

I don't know how they're "supposed" to fit but I like mine snug so they don't bunch up...same as an argument for boxer briefs over regular boxers.

[Easykeeper]

I like mine snug but not tight.  I like a very thin and flexible base layer, I think it wicks better when it lays flat against my skin.

[Gdpolk]

Snug but not tight.

Snug will wick moisture better.  If it's so tight that it stretches, you are loosing loft and warmth.  If it's loose enough to bunch up then you create pressure points that can be irritating like sitting on a thin long fold and right as your settled and the big buck is coming you notice your butt itches right along that fold in the fabric.

[Sharpend60]

Loose is warmer, tight affords better mobility.

As a cold weather athlete, I prefer right in between.

[Rustic]

hmmm...depending on the temp, I start with a tite fittin sleeveless nylon top and add layers on to that...BTW, thanks for reminding me what I will wear this weekend.

[Sam McMichael]

I like slightly loose. Anything tight makes me feel constricted.

[NBK]

Originally posted by Sam McMichael:
I like slightly loose. Anything tight makes me feel constricted.

X2
Used to wear under armor that fit pretty snug and noticed that by the end of the day it would itch and couldn't wait to get it off, especially the bottoms.  Switched to the Kuiu merino that's slim, but looser and ended up not wanting to take them off.  Ever.

[Knotter]

Close but not tight, The closer the fit the fewer voids that fill with cooler air. Also - too loose and you will chafe and be less comfortable.    The fabric shouldn't constrict your movement or feel tight - if that happens you'll do the opposite of what the base layer is supposed to do.   I'm not a fan of the "superhero tights" that seem to be all the rage these days.  Merino wool in the right cut and fit.

[Sockrsblur]

Ed if you are not dead set on the material do your self a favor and go into a real outdoor, store like (ems) and just look at the modern materials they have available, talk to the live employees.  The stretch base and mid layers are not cheap but seeing how they perform and the amazing comfort they provide there in no going back for me... just go look if you don't know... if you all ready know then enough said. Best of luck,, Jim

[German Dog]

Right now I wear Smartwool and am looking at Firstlite for my next set.  Anyone know how the fit of the Firstlite is?

[killinstuff]

Fitelite is Merino wool so it will never be tight like compression fit garments unless you are a XL trying to slip into a medium size.

[VictoryHunter]

I like mine snug as well. I suppose the more skin it's touching the more moisture is being wicked away.

[Emmons]

First Lite will fit close, but I would not say a compression fit.  Top shelf gear!!

[jhg]

I like a tighter fit for a base- I like a thin layer and something a bit looser over it. That way the base layer is more like skin. I think a base layer performs its job better when its just snug to the skin. Not a fan of compression fit though. Hate that feel and no noticeble performance improvement- marketing hype IMO.
But everyone is different.
 I can't stand the feel of droopey pants, but some people love them...

Joshua

[LittleBen]

I like underarmour base layer ... I think it helps prevent overheating when getting into the stand, allows me to cool off fairly quickly if I lose outer layers, but tends to be warm as long as you have an outer layer that will cut the wind.

But yeah ... it can get a bit uncomfortable because it's so tight. Plus doesn;t help having your gut squeezed when you're trying ot make it through to last shooting light without a bathroom break ...