Opinions wanted on KUIU and First Lite base layers

[pdk25]

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.

[PowDuck]

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.

[Jesse Minish]

Both are great but I still only have my First Lite.

[huntercole]

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.

[South MS Bowhunter]

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.

[beendare]

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

[Ryan Sanpei]

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.

[South MS Bowhunter]

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.

[ESP]

I would give a nod to firstlight for a base layer.  I really like mine.

[Ryan Sanpei]

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.

[ESP]

I would recommend firstlight for a base layer.  I really like mine.

[Ryan Sanpei]

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.

   
If possible, I prefer wool for it's all around versatility.


   
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.

[South MS Bowhunter]

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.

[David lozzano]

I just placed my first order with KUIU