Best Merino Base Layer

[bagada]

Minus33 sells a Heavyweight(for merino) hoodie that I scored on Amazon for 130 free shipping. The price just jumped to 170. Bummer. I really thought it would be a good deal for wearing under a fred asbell.

[katman]

This may help.
 http://tradgang.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=147979#000000

[Tim]

I have had most of the merino wool brands over the years and I've found the Smart Wool wears the most comfortable and holds up very well.   The 400 gr seems to hold it's shape better over time (not stretch as much), over the 200 gr.  However, the 200 is the most comfortable.   Lot's of merino brand options out there these days.

[dhaverstick]

I like the Minus33 stuff but I think the medium weight is the way to go. Many times you can find base layers in that weight for almost half of what the heavy weight costs. Just put two layers of it on and you are good to go.

Darren

I have experience only with First Lite, and I love that stuff!

Bisch

[ChuckC]

I add my vote for the Minus 33.  Note... I have not tried the rest, so couldn't say it is best, but I can say I like it a lot.  I have several pieces.
ChuckC

[FoCoBlackWidow]

I'm a fan of Icebreaker, and First Lite is excellent as well. I wear it for everything from warm, early-season mountain hunts to November whitetail hunts.

[bagada]

Originally posted by dhaverstick:
I like the Minus33 stuff but I think the medium weight is the way to go. Many times you can find base layers in that weight for almost half of what the heavy weight costs. Just put two layers of it on and you are good to go.

Darren

Thats what I used to do until I realized that the heavier tighter weaves hold up much better to heavy use. Some thin shirts have gotten holes in 2 months. The thicker the wool it seems to last exponentially longer. Lets say 2 200 gram shirts last 2 months each (everyday use). A 400 gram shirt will last 2-3 years or more of everyday hard use and still look brand new. Just my experience. Yes I do wear the same shirt for weeks as long as its wool.

[Jake Scott]

I can't speak to all the major brands, but my Sitka merino bases are extremely warm, especially when used in conjunction with a heavier synthetic base in extremely cold weather.  3 seasons in and still in like new shape.  I've also heard rave reviews about first lite.

Jake

[Yewbender]

I have Woolpower and Smartwool, love them!