[This year too] Best buys for each scene, selected by comparing 50 or more base layers, and 5 points to consider when choosing the best one for the best one
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
Find the best solution for the base layer that greatly affects the comfort and discomfort in the outdoors
The base layer has become increasingly diverse in recent years, including materials, thickness, knitting methods, and sewing. When mountain climbing where environmental changes occur due to outside air condition or sweating, it is no exaggeration to say that the base layer that comes into direct contact with the skin is the most impactful piece that directly influences comfort during action. Every manufacturer says it's the best, but of course no one will tell you, "Which one is the best after all?" So I'm going to do some research myself, and this site continues my journey every year in search of the best base layer.
For this reason, this site checks dozens of models every year, including newly released models, and purchase the models you're interested in at your own expense to try them out, and as a result, we select the ones you should have right now that suit the season and purpose. For this reason, this year we would like to introduce some of the best models carefully selected from among the many excellent base layers.
The functions required for the base layer differ depending on the purpose, so select the best buy by category.
Although it is simply called a base layer, it has a variety of features that suit your purpose and purpose, from those that reduce the heat and stuffiness of summer, to those that are highly capable of preventing the cold of winter, to models that are easy to use for running, to models that are suitable for light hiking, and so it is actually difficult to compare them in general (the common simple ranking articles honestly don't understand the meaning).
In this article, we have set up seven categories for each purpose and purpose, and by selecting "Best Buy" from each, we can introduce models that match the usage of our readers. In the second half, we also summarize the checkpoints for first-time base layers to help people choose the best model for them, taking into account their previous experience.
table of contents
- Recommended base layers for different scenes and uses
- Best All-Round Division: Comfortable and easy to use for any activity
- Best Performance Division: Comfort & Functionality No. 1 in Action
- Best Hiking Division: Good balance that is easy to use for overnight climbing and hiking
- Best and High-Load Activity Division: Perfect for short periods of sweating
- Best Layering Division: Excellent cold protection layer that can be used as a base or intermediate wear
- Best Cost Performance Division: Great value models you'll be interested in after all
- Vest and Versatility Division: A piece you'll want to wear not only in the mountains but also in everyday life
- How to choose: 5 tips to choose your base layer wisely
- Introduction: The basics of layering and the role of the base layer
- Point 1: Materials - Learn the difference between synthetic fiber and merino wool
- Point 2: Thickness of the fabric - Choose according to season and activity
- Point 3: Shape, knitting, sewing - Choose a design that suits your purpose and make it even more comfortable
- Point 4: Comfort and fit - The basic silhouette is tightly attached to the skin
- Point 5: Other detailed functions and features - Keep the functions found in higher quality and high-performance models -
- Summary: Assuming you use it according to the situation
Recommended base layers for different scenes and uses
Best All-Round Division: Comfortable and easy to use for any activity
Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Base Layer Crew
Favorite points
NuYarn technology and stunning cutting make it both functional and comfortable at a high level
Interesting points
It's the best if there's a zip neck model without a hood
Not only does it perform well in all outdoor activities, but it also provides excellent comfort as a clothing item, and is durable enough to last a long time. The Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Base Layer Crew a top student (shown in the photo below).
The most attractive feature is that although it is a blend of 78% wool and 22% polyester, it is comfortable to wear with 100% wool fabric, and it combines the natural heat retention, temperature control and comfort of merino wool with the breathability, sweat absorption, quick drying, stretchability and durability of synthetic fibers at an ever-highest level.
This was my first time experiencing NuYarn Technology, which is a micro-grade blend of ultra-fine merino wool and synthetic fibers, and I was completely captivated by its high level of comfort and high level of perfection, which allows for such high level of comfort during intense activities. However, I am once again amazed at the remarkable evolution of Merino wool x synthetic fiber blending technology over the past few years.
The accurate fit is not too loose or too cramped, and the moderate kickback makes it easy to move, as well as the ease of movement support for comfort when active. The fabric itself isn't that thick, so if you want to, you can wear it all year round. There is a hooded zip neck type for cold seasons, so we recommend that too. In any case, I honestly underestimated it because it was a base layer for Black Diamond
Unfortunately, I missed the award, but I also recommend this [All-round category] (in alphabetical order)
- MONTANE Primino 140 Zip Neck
- Patagonia Men's Long Sleeve Caprene Cool Merino Shirt (For Summer)
- SmartWool Classic All Season Merino Base Layer Long Sleeve
Best Performance Division: Comfort & Functionality No. 1 in Action
Patagonia Capreen Air Hoodie
Favorite points
A fabric with an overwhelming comfort, excellent fit, and a three-dimensional structure that enhances breathability that won't stick even when exercising vigorously
Interesting points
Low durability and high price
MILLET Whole Garment Waffle Wool Hoodie
Favorite points
Waffle fabric provides excellent comfort, and calculated ventilation design with whole garments
Interesting points
Low durability
Apart from its low durability, this second place was selected in the Best Performance category, which promises the best performance when you take action.
What's distinctive is that both of these knits are made of three-dimensional structures with excellent elasticity in areas that come into contact with the skin, and are knitted with no seams and whole garments. It feels soft and light to the touch, making it addictively comfortable, and the dead air effect trapped in the grooves also has excellent heat retention despite the thickness and weight of the fabric. Even if you sweat, the uneven structure keeps the skin away from the skin and does not feel sticky. Once the wind blows, the air passes through these uneven surfaces, making it breathable and quick-drying, making it a skillful structure that can be used as many birds as a single stone.
If I had to make a difference, the Whole Garment Waffle Wool Hoodie is made of ultra-fine wool material, which is a little more comfortable to the touch, while the fit is looser. It's more suitable for calm activities. On the other hand, Capreen Air fits perfectly to your body and has a higher sweat-removal performance in terms of the fabric, making it suitable for all kinds of active sports.
Another candidate in this category, Teton Bros. MOB Wool Hoody and Mountain and Road DF Mesh Merino Long Sleeve are also excellent base layers that are no less than the two awards, but personally I couldn't accept the troublesome maintenance of the fact that it shrinks easily when washed in a washing machine, so unfortunately I was the runner-up.
Unfortunately, I missed the award, but I also recommend this [Best Performance Category]
- Mountains and roads DF Mesh Merino Long Sleeve
- Teton Bros. MOB Wool Hoody
The whole garment doesn't bother you with the seams, and the three-dimensional knit makes it a one-of-a-kind comfortable feel.
Best Hiking Division: Good balance that is easy to use for overnight climbing and hiking
Black Diamond Men's L/S Rhythm Tee
Favorite points
Light and soft, fine texture, excellent elasticity, and comfortable fit with excellent elasticity, as well as excellent breathability and quick-drying properties.
Interesting points
It is thin, so you can't expect much heat retention, and it is prone to pilling easily when washed.
ACLIMA LIGHTWOOL UNDERSHIRT LS
Favorite points
17.5 micron fibers for a supple feel and a comfortable fit
Interesting points
It is made of 100% wool fiber, so it is undeniable that it is not durable.
Both of the two items we chose are very soft and smooth to the touch, and are comfortable to wear without any quirks that make you want to keep wearing them forever. particularly Black Diamond Rhythm Tee is a blend of wool and nylon using NuYarn technology, yet has a very fine texture and a pleasant feel (it's a drawback that it is prone to pilling).
The appeal of each of the two is that Black Diamond Rhythm Tea is not only comfortable to wear, but also has excellent stretchability, making it stress-free and easy to move around. Although it is thin and does not contain polyurethane or other substances, the fabric stretches and shrinks comfortably, and gently fits the lines of your body, reducing the effects from the outside world like another piece of skin, and expels moisture from the body.
The high-quality, ultra-fine wool provides higher heat retention and temperature control than you would expect from the thickness of the fabric, so it should work well in a wide range of seasons except for the harsh winter.
A thin yet highly motile fabric that stretches surprisingly well, using NuYarn technology.
the LIGHTWOOL UNDERSHIRT LS a classic base layer from ACLIMA established Nordic wool wear brand that has been devoted to wool for over 80 years (!) , is a thin model for spring and autumn, carefully made with world-class high-quality 100% merino wool fibers.
The fine, smooth texture of the fabric is made from 100% extremely delicate merino wool, 17.5 microns, and is knitted with an exquisite density, making it so wonderful that you'll want to rub your cheek against it. When it comes to how comfortable it feels when you put it on! . The skillful cutting that fits comfortably on the skin, the flatlock seams that do not slop off the seams, and the elasticity that is not too tight can be worn every day. Although it is in the hiking category, it should suit a wide range of activities, not only mountain climbing but also other activities.
Unfortunately, I missed the award, but I also recommend this [Best Hiking Category]
- Houdini Desoli Crew (for 3 seasons)
- Icebreaker 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crew (for 3 seasons)
- SmartWool Classic Merino Base Layer Series (All Seasons or Thermal)
- Mountains and Roads 100% Merino Light Long Sleeve (for summer)
Best and High-Load Activity Division: Perfect for short periods of sweating
THE NORTH FACE Expedition Dry Dot Crew (Spring, Autumn, Winter)
Favorite points
Excellent sweat absorption and quick drying, dry skin, and moderate heat retention
Interesting points
Surface durability, too hot in the middle of summer (and high price)
Mountain Hardwear Estero Long Sleeve Zip TV.4 (Summer)
Favorite points
Stress-free, easy to move around and excellent ventilation and quick-drying.
Interesting points
It is hardly expected to have heat retention.
Naturally, synthetic fiber base layers are advantageous in this category, but in today's era, simply being synthetic fibers cannot provide outstanding performance than others. Among the synthetic fiber base layers that focus on quick drying and are produced by many manufacturers, the two award-winning pieces achieved a distinctive quality through their respective approaches.
that THE NORTH FACE Expedition Dry Dot Crew has been featured on many other sites, but Future Dot Fleece, which uses innovative technology to quickly pull large amounts of sweat off the skin and efficiently evaporates it to the outside, providing amazing comfort in intense activities in cold weather. What's amazing about this one piece is that it not only dries quickly, but also does not leave any sweaty discomfort on the skin, so even when it's dry, it keeps the skin dry and smooth.
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The other Mountain Hardwear Estero Long Sleeve Zip is an orthodox yet reliable piece that is made from thin, breathable fabric and is combined with calculated cutting that combines ease of movement and good ventilation. This model has been my favorite for over 5 years and has been updating it for a long time as a summer staple. Each piece is carefully done, with a flatlock seam with a raglan sleeve and no need to worry about the seams, and a thin, yet fine unevenness and grid-like mesh structure that makes it easy to feel a dry feel. This is a piece that you can use more than ever for midsummer activities that you want to always stay cool and dry. You may not need it right now, but be sure to check it out during the spring and summer seasons.
A grid-shaped mesh structure with fine unevenness that does not lose its dryness and breathability even when wet.
Unfortunately, I missed the award, but I also recommend this [Best High-Load Activity Category]
- MONTANE Dart Thermo Zip Neck T-shirt (for winter)
- mont-bell Geoline LW round neck shirt (for summer)
- SmartWool Intra Knit Merino 200 1/2 Zip Hoodie (For Winter)
- Teton Bros. PPP L/S (for summer)
Best Layering Division: Excellent cold protection layer that can be used as a base or intermediate wear
Mountain Hardwear Air Mesh 1/2 Zip
Favorite points
"Other dimension heat retention" and "Other dimension breathability and quick drying" provide incredible effects as a booster for layering on another base layer
Interesting points
When considered as a standalone base layer, it is often too high breathability, poor comfort as an underwear, and lack of elasticity.
A multi-functional layer that combines sweat-absorbing and quick-drying properties, such as Teijin's "Octa," which has been newly introduced in recent years. Many people may have never experienced it yet.
The characteristic of these clothing is that the shape of the fibers and the brushed structure of the lining allow air to be stored like padded, resulting in heat retention that was previously unthinkable, despite its dramatic lightness, while also allowing air to pass through the air with high breathability, which could be called mesh. In other words, "If it is not windy, it warms your body, but if you receive even a little wind, it works in the direction of cooling down your body," so when used alone, it is limited to short-term, high-load activities that are always moving. It also doesn't feel particularly good on the skin.
After trying out these extremely quirky new clothing in various situations, I realized that for normal mountain climbing and hiking purposes like myself, layering it over a base layer makes it even more convenient than you imagined, rather than wearing it on your skin alone. This time, we have deliberately featured it as a category in order to open up new possibilities for the base layer.
, the Mountain Hardwear Air Mesh 1/2 zip was newly released in the fall and winter season , has the excellent performance of many Octa models, as well as the excellent tailoring and a subtle coloring. In 2021, there were only crew necks, but from 2022, a zip neck type has also been added, and with one of these, it can be used as a cold-weather layer when the temperature is high, and as a small layer that adds heat retention to the base layer when the temperature is low. This winter, try wearing this over your favorite Merino wool base layer. It gives you a better comfortable layering than any base layer.
Unfortunately, I missed the award, but I also recommend this [Best Layering Category]
- MILLET Thermal Mesh Liner QD Crew
- OMM Core Hoodie
The fabric feels fluffy and thick when held in your hand, and is air permeable so that the back can be seen through.
Best Cost Performance Division: Great value models you'll be interested in after all
mont-bell super merino wool LW round neck shirt
Favorite points
Superior cost performance
Interesting points
Medium design and colour
As most people expected, Montbell was still strong here. Despite its high functionality created through high quality merino wool and skillful sewing, it is stable and affordable. It is equipped with excellent comfort and functionality everywhere.
However, even though they are so full, it is probably because of their lack of sexiness that it makes them difficult for some reason to move around. It's a problem that no matter how good a person has, they can make him look sturdy and cylindrical.
Vest and Versatility Division: A piece you'll want to wear not only in the mountains but also in everyday life
Houdini Ms Activist Turtleneck
Favorite points
A relaxed fit, yet sophisticated silhouette and colouring, comfortable warmth
Interesting points
There are quite a few features that are suitable for active scenes such as breathability and quick drying.
BRING WUNDERWEAR CREWNECK
Favorite points
A sophisticated design with comfort and functionality
Interesting points
The loose fit makes it not suitable for layering for intense activity
It's perfect for everyday wear for people who want to live in the mountains, and is also useful for everyday wear every day and on holidays with their family. It's a model perfect for everyday wear for people whose outdoors are a great way to live. Both are not only practical for outdoor use, but also have the quality that is only possible from brands that are deeply familiar with both. Both of these models are designed with a balance between everyday life and a little outdoors, so when compared to serious outdoor use, they are modest in some places, and in terms of functionality you may not be able to get anything worth the price. However, once you incorporate the comfort of outdoor wear into your daily life, you will surely be unable to let go of it because of its convenience and comfort.
For example the Houdini Ms Activist Turtleneck , everyone will notice the stunning tailoring that combines its comfortable fit with an elegant silhouette and texture. The blended fabric of merino wool and Tencel is environmentally friendly and natural, bringing out maximum functionality and comfort. I chose the turtleneck first to choose my favorite one to wear in autumn and winter, but there is also a wide range of crew necks and short sleeves, so you might be able to wear them all year round.
An elegant wool-tencel blend fabric with a pale luster and a sophisticated silhouette that makes your body lines look beautiful.
Next, BRING WUNDERWEAR CREWNECK is a super comfortable and stylish base layer made from a new Japanese brand. With the ethical goal of implementing a circular economy in society, we create functionality, design and sustainable clothing. The quality is outstanding despite its high ideals, and is made from a blend of extra fine merino wool and the unique sustainable polyester "BRING Material™." Using cutting-edge knitting technology using three-dimensional surfaces and whole garments, it combines the ultimate light feel to the touch and the goodness of sweat. The slightly looser fit and gentle coloring make it perfect for everyday use (of course, it can be used outdoors in terms of functionality), making it an indispensable piece this winter.
How to choose: 5 tips to choose your base layer wisely
Introduction: The basics of layering and the role of the base layer
First, I would like to understand the basic meaning and role of the "base layer" clothing that is often heard in the outdoors. , you need to first know the concept of layering to make your life comfortable outdoors
Layering means " layered ". One of the best ways to quickly adapt to the uneven weather and whimsical physical conditions, such as hot or cold, is to "layer well" and allow fine adjustments, and this efficient and versatile way to layer and effectively use this efficient, general-purpose outdoor layering (rules) layering . Correct layering can keep your clothes in a constant state during intense sweating in the summer, sudden thunderstorms, or cheek-sticking cold, allowing you to always behave in a comfortable mood, but on the other hand, incorrect layering can easily lead to unpleasant conditions, no matter how expensive outdoor wear you are wearing. To avoid this, first take a look at some simple mechanisms to implement correct layering.
The basic principle of correct layering is that the following three layers work together: With proper layering, all layers can work together to dissipate sweat (moisture) inside the clothing, retain heat, and protect yourself from wind and rain.
- Base layer (underwear layer): Absorbs and releases sweat from the skin surface
- Middle layer : Stores heat from the body, keeps heat and insulates it (water from inside is passed to the outside)
- Shell Layer : Protect yourself from wind, rain, snow and cold air
Strictly speaking, some clothing can perform multiple roles in one piece, and depending on the season and situation, such as running in the middle of summer without wind, it may not be necessary to layer all layers, so it is a smart layering to understand these functions and roles and adjust them according to the scene.
Here we summarize the basic roles of each layer.
| Layer | Base layer | Middle layer | Shell Layer |
|---|---|---|---|
| image |  |  |  |
| Main role |
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| Main wear |
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Base layer as the most important layer that is always essential
No matter what the case, a base layer is literally a "base" and is an indispensable layer in all seasons and activities . Although you may act on just one base layer, it is unlikely that you will be able to act on only the shell layer on your skin. This important base layer is now available in a wide variety of models from a wide range of manufacturers, so you may often be unsure what to choose. From here, we will explain five checkpoints to help you choose the perfect outfit for you from this diverse base layer.
Point 1: Materials - Learn the difference between synthetic fiber and merino wool
One of the most important points when choosing a base layer is to choose the material, which is what kind of fabric it is made of.
First of all, the basic premise is to avoid using cotton for outdoor base layers that will lose its heat retention when wet. Instead, three types of synthetic fibers (synthetic fibers) are made from polyester, nylon, and polypropylene, which are materials that are quick-drying without losing heat retention even when wet, merino wool, which is a wool that is produced in Australia and New Zealand, and blended materials of these wool and synthetic fibers (in detail, there are many different synthetic fibers, and there are many other natural fibers such as silk and cashmere, and recycled fibers such as Tencel, but for now, as long as you know the two major types of these synthetic fibers and wool, there is no problem).
Below is a summary of the rough characteristics of each. Each one is not suitable for use, so the secret to making your stay comfortable is to wear it according to the season and activities rather than the same material being the best year-round.
| material | Synthetic fiber | Merino wool | Wool + fiber |
|---|---|---|---|
| image |   |   |   |
| merit |
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| Disadvantages |
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| Suitable scene |
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Point 2: Thickness of the fabric - Choose according to season and activity
Each model of the base layer often comes in a lineup of different thicknesses even though it is the same style, and manufacturers try to adapt to a variety of seasons and activities by changing the thickness of the fabric. By the way, the unit of thickness of the fabric is generally expressed in terms of grams (g/m2) per square meter of the fabric, as the thicker it is generally expressed in terms of the amount of grams (g/m2).
Thin (lightweight)
It is made for summer and sweating activities, and although it does not have much heat retention, it is light and breathable and quick-drying thick. It is not impossible to use this thin layer to make it useful all year round by layering another base layer. The thickness is roughly around 100 to 170 g/m2.
Medium-thick (midweight)
It is the most versatile thickness that can be used all year round, focusing on spring and autumn activities. If you're looking for your first outfit, we recommend this thickness. The thickness is roughly around 160 to 250 g/m2.
Thick (heavy weight)
It has sufficient heat retention to accommodate the harsh cold of winter. However, moisture management is not a priority, so moisture wicking is not a great option. It provides the perfect comfort in winter, but it's too hot in warmer seasons to wear. As a guideline for thickness, it is approximately 250 g/m2 or more.
Personally, as long as you don't do winter mountain climbing during the harsh winter, you don't have to hurry up with thick base layers because they're not easy to use. First, it is best to prepare the thickness of the midway and lightweight.
Point 3: Shape, knitting, sewing - Choose a design that suits your purpose and make it even more comfortable
There are four main types of styles (shapes) for the base layer. Each one has its best suited seasons and activities, so we've summarized the advantages and disadvantages of each one below, so please choose a style that fits you better, taking into account the details listed here.
Personally, I don't use short-sleeved zip necks or hoodie types as they are limited in season and activities. Therefore, if you don't have any particular preferences, we recommend the long sleeve type for outdoor activities such as mountain climbing and hiking. In terms of functionality, the zip neck type is easy to adjust the temperature and is convenient, but if you want to use it as an inner layer for everyday wear, the crew neck type is easier to use, which is a concern.
| type | Short sleeve type | Long sleeve (crew neck) type | Zip neck type | Hoodie type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| image |  |  |  |  |
| Coolness | ◎ | △ | ◯ | × |
| Warmth | × | ◯ | ◯ | ◎ |
| Ease of temperature control | ◯ | △ | ◯ | × |
| Suitable seasons and activities |
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Focus on models with a unique twist in knitting and sewing methods 1: Whole garment
Sewn-free knitwear knitted entirely in three dimensions. Despite its complex knitting that incorporates different functions in place, such as breathability, texture, and elasticity, it can be knitted seamlessly without stitching at all. It is light, warm and breathable, and does not slurp seams, making it an amazing fit and fit.
Focus on models with a unique twist in knitting and sewing 2: Three-dimensional knitting
As I mentioned in Whole Garment, by knitting the three-dimensional structure that creates a passage for air between the skin surface, which is typical of waffle fabric, the fabric can be used to maintain more dead air and provide moderate ventilation.
Point 4: Comfort and fit - The basic silhouette is tightly attached to the skin
There may be slight differences in the silhouette (fit) of the base layer, but it is common to wear a slim fit that fits perfectly along the body lines.
There are two main reasons for this. One is that it is necessary to adhere the fabric to the skin in order to absorb sweat that has been developed during the course of action, peel off moisture from the skin, and make it easier to evaporate efficiently. The other reason is that it is designed to be layered, so it is difficult to layer with a loose, doweled silhouette.
On the other hand, models with a slightly looser silhouette are thought to have an original purpose, such as whether they are intended to be comfortable when relaxed, casually designed to be easy to wear in everyday life, or whether they are designed to be a summer T-shirt type that emphasizes breathability, or can be used as base layers or middle layers. In any case, there is no one correct answer for these fits, but consider comparing the model's aims with the features you are looking for.
This silhouette can be imagined to some extent from the displays such as "Standard Fit," "Slim Fit," and "Trim Fit," which are listed on the manufacturer's website, but in the end, it is certain that you try on and decide based on your individual sense of whether it fits your body type.
Point 5: Other detailed functions and features - Keep the functions found in higher quality and high-performance models -
UV protection
A common type of base layer that has UV protection effect is added to the fabric. This literally means sunscreen, but is it necessary even when you're wearing clothes? You may think so. In fact, outdoor activities where people are active in areas with strong reflections such as high altitudes or snow, can be affected by UV rays even over clothes. For this reason, if you just don't want to get sunburned, it is especially effective to choose a model with this feature.
Antibacterial and odor-resistant
The problem of odor has always been inevitable for base layers, especially synthetic fiber models. This is because when you are a typical mountain climber, you will have to sweat a lot and keep it on for days, and synthetic fibers will inevitably remain in the fabric even if sweat residues or odorous substances are selected in the fibers.
However, recently, the evolution of technology has made it possible to see a way to save some degree from odor problems.
One is to wear a base layer containing "wool". Wool has a strong, natural deodorizing function, and even if you sweat, the unpleasant smell will almost disappear once it dries, making it relatively comfortable to wear no matter how many days you wear it. Some people say that it doesn't smell even after wearing it for a week, so in that sense, wool has the most unparalleled characteristics of a mountain climbing base layer.
The other is to choose a model that is synthetic, if not as good as wool, and has a deodorizing function. For example, "antibacterial and deodorizing clothing" that has been achieved by using silver ions* kneaded into the fabric (Montbell) and polysine deodorizing processing using natural antibacterial substances are becoming the mainstream. Conversely, it may be important to remember that for synthetic fiber models that do not have such functions, you need to be careful about odor issues.
*In recent years, in Europe and the United States have been moving towards avoiding metal-derived raw materials such as silver salts, which are used for deodorizing functions, in Europe and the United States, and new environmentally friendly technologies are also being updated in this field.
Flat seams that do not stick to the skin
The base layer, which is intended to adhere to the skin, can cause rubbing if the seams on the lining are raised, causing it to interfere with the shoulder harness of the backpack, causing discomfort and rubbing. It is important to know whether or not you are properly dealing with such abrasion care, but it is important.
It is more comfortable to choose a model that has detailed responses, such as a flat-lock seam with flat seams to avoid rubbing, or a cutting pattern to prevent seams from coming into the top of the shoulder where the shoulder harness hits.
Be careful about whether wool will shrink due to washing.
Finally, I would like to share with those who buy wool base layers with something that is easy to forget. Since ancient times, wool clothing has been "shrinking when washed normally in the washing machine." That remains essentially the same today. The surface of wool is a scale-like layer called a "scale", which when wet, opens, and when washed, the scales intertwined and shrinks.
However, recent high-performance wool has been treated with excellent shrink-proofing during the spinning process, and these products are allowed to be washed in a regular washing machine. Of course, I don't think these will shrink at all 100%, but at least within my own experience, it will not lead to a catastrophe where you will no longer be able to wear it after washing (even if it doesn't go far, it seems to have been clearly shrinking).
For this reason, it's easy to imagine that all of the most recent mountain merino wool base layers can be washed somehow, but that's not the case in reality. It is not uncommon for products that show top-level performance to be able to shrink easily and require careful care such as hand washing.
If possible, it is definitely a great help as products that are easy to care for can be washed with other clothing without worrying about anything. Therefore, when choosing a base layer of merino wool, check to see if there are any precautions to make it easier to shrink, and if possible, choose a model that can be washed normally, which will make it easier to care for. On the other hand, if there is a possibility that it will shrink when washed, make sure to wash it using the manufacturer's designated care method.
Summary: Assuming you use it according to the situation
The base layer is important clothing that adheres to the skin. It is important to choose functionality and heat retention that suits the season and activities. We would appreciate it if you could use this review and tips for choosing a base layer that has a variety of roles and appeal, and help you find the perfect photo for each of us. Of course, no matter how sturdy the base layer is, don't forget to pay attention to other middle layers and shell layers. So have a fun mountain trip!
[Reference] The base layer of 52 pieces I tried this year (probably some missing parts)
As always, we first checked out the release models of global comprehensive outdoor brands, small, talented brands that are resistant to specific activities, base layer brands, and popular Japanese outdoor brands. The main activities are mountain climbing (stream climbing), trail running, and backcountry.
Below are some carefully selected models that resonated with my heart and those that made me realize that I actually saw them in the store, and those that made me want to wear them, these are the 52nd carefully selected models of this year.
- ACLIMA LIGHTWOOL SPORTS SHIRT
- ACLIMA LIGHTWOOL UNDERSHIRT LS
- ACLIMA WARMWOOL CREW NECK
- Arc'teryx Cormac LS Zip Neck Shirt
- Arc'teryx Verox LS
- Arc'teryx Motors LS Crew Neck Shirt
- Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Base Layer 1/2 Zip Hoodie
- Black Diamond Men's L/S Rhythm Tee
- BRING WUNDERWEAR CREWNECK
- DUCKWORTH MAVERICK CREW
- finetrack drautzepher
- Houdini Desoli Crew
- Houdini Activist Crew
- Houdini Ms Activist Turtleneck
- icebreaker 150 long sleeve crew stripe
- icebreaker 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crew
- icebreaker 260 zone long sleeve half zip
- icebreaker 150 zone long sleeve crew
- MAMMUT Sertig Longsleeve Men
- MAMMUT Trift Half Zip Longsleeve Men
- MILLET Waffle Wool Hoodie
- MILLET Thermal Mesh Liner QD Crew
- MILLET Aravi Crew Long Sleeve
- mont-bell cool long sleeve zip shirt
- mont-bell Geoline LW round neck shirt
- mont-bell super merino wool LW round neck shirt
- mont-bell super merino wool EXP. round neck shirt
- mont-bell Geoline EXP. Round neck shirt
- MONTANE Dirt Thermo Zip Neck T-shirt
- MONTANE Primino 140 Long Sleeve T-shirt
- MONTANE Primino 220 Zip Neck Base Layer
- Mountain Hardwear Air Mesh Long Sleeve Crew
- Mountain Hardwear Estero Long Sleeve Zip
- NORRONA skibotn wool 3/4 T-shirt
- NORRONA norrona pureUll long Sleeve
- NORRONA bitihorn wool Shirt
- OMM Core Hoodie(2020)
- Patagonia Capreen Air Hoodie
- Patagonia Men's Capreen Midweight Crew
- Patagonia Men's Long Sleeve Caprien Cool Trail Shirt
- Patagonia Men's Long Sleeve Caprien Cool Merino Shirt
- SmartWool Intra Knit Merino 200 1/2 Zip Hoodie
- SmartWool Classic All Season Merino Base Layer Long Sleeve
- SmartWool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew
- Teton Bros. MOB Wool Hoody
- Teton Bros. PPP L/S
- Teton Bros. Axio Hybrid L/S Tee
- Teton Bros. Graphene Crew
- THE NORTH FACE Expedition Dry Dot Crew
- THE NORTH FACE Long sleeve flash dry 3D zip-up
- Mountains and Roads 100% Merino Light Long Sleeve (2020)
- Mountains and roads DF Mesh Merino Long Sleeve
