Merino wool vs synthetic base layer

I don't like wool as a base layer because it's scratchy. I have some of the most expensive wool shite sold, and it's still scratchy

quote:

---

I have some of the most expensive wool shite sold, and it's still scratchy

---

I have merino wool base layers and they are the softest, most comfortable base layers I've ever used.

To the OP: Merino wool is my go to when it gets cold cold. I'll wear the synthetic stuff when its down to about 35 but when I'm duck hunting in sub-freezing weather I am so glad I have the merino. It retains its heating and warmth characteristics even when wet and does a phenomenal job of wicking moisture away from the skin if you sweat. I HIGHLY recommend it.

There's a million different warmth ratings on it, so be sure you buy the right heaviness rating for your application. I wear 200 or 250 weight for sub freezing conditions. I have a pair of 100 weight socks and they're great even in the summer for when I wear boots.

quote:

---

What brand?

---

I have Icebreaker and Terramar brand. Got them off of Sierra Trading Post. There will be some variation in brands, but both of the brands I have experience with are great.

I would just check to make sure they're 100% merino wool, or at least be aware if you're buying a blend. A lot of companies will advertise "merino wool" base layers that are as little as 20% merino wool and the rest synthetic. Doesn't mean it won't be a good base layer, just shouldn't cost as much as the 100% stuff IMO.

Icebreaker has been good for me. I have one Ibex shirt and it's good also.

Don't care for Smartwool brand. It's scratchy and doesn't last as long.

Minus 33 from Amazon is also good. It used to be cheaper than Icebreaker but not as much now that's it's getting popular.

Merino is the only kind to get for base layers. Warmer when wet, doesn't stink as bad when wearing multiple days backpacking either.

I prefer merino over synthetics.

Vermonts Darn Tough socks are the best sock ever also.

Quality wool is not itchy wool is 10x better

Wool stays warm when wet

Otherwise, synthetic is better

Merino wool still insulates when it gets wet, it pulls moisture from your body while you sweat, and because of it's natural properties it is antimicrobial. Meaning if you have to where it 2-3 days straight it wont get as funky and synthetic or cotton would. Synthetic polyester will sour if sweat touches it one time.

KUIU is some of the best stuff on the market right now and is the best value.

If you want a light-mid layer that is good next to skin (it is not itchy at all unless you have some sort of allergy or sensitive skin) then I would recommend a Minus 33 Merino Top. I have hunted in this as my main base layer for 4 years now and it is one of the best pieces of gear I have ever bought. I wore this light top, a Cabelas MTP Polar fleece pullover (another high quality and cheap piece of layering gear) and a thin Scentlok Long Sleeve shirt in 28 deg weather last year and was sitting there like it was 60.

My main beef with synthetic is that they sour after a day of hunting if you sweat at all. They work and they keep you warm and are light as hell, but for my money I want Merino.

Minus 33 mid weight - sub 30 base layer

Minus 33 Heavy Layer - freezing your balls off sub 20 cold

I hike to my stand often no matter how cold it is with only that thin Minus 33 base layer because I don't want to sweat, and Im fine.

quote:

---

I hike to my stand often no matter how cold it is with only that thin Minus 33 base layer because I don't want to sweat, and Im fine

---

Unless I have a real short hike (<.5mi) I'm just going with a t-shirt when I walk in in the morning. It might be cold the first minute or so you get out of the truck, but you get pretty toasty pretty quick hauling gear through the woods.

quote:

---

First lite is up there too

---

Absolutely agree. First Lite is top notch.

quote:

---

My thoughts exactly. I literally wear the same base layer whether its throwing out dekes sub 32, walking to the stand sub 32, or sitting on stand early bow season in the 70's.

---

And that's the minus 33 lightweight?