Don't be shy. What are you all wearing for base layers? Or do you wear base layers? There is nothing wrong with saying you wear a pair of long underwear handed down from your Great Great Grandfather :)

@nathanhobbins4245

3 жыл бұрын

All of my base layer clothing is tight synthetics from Walmart and Target. Because it’s what I can afford. And it works great for me in extreme conditions. Great video and info! I agree 100% with everything you said

@bingsballyhoo711

3 жыл бұрын

Capilene, well worth the money. Silk does okay.

@justinfowler2857

3 жыл бұрын

I work on the railroad and during the winter I've used 32 degree heat for the last couple of years. It works great to keep me from sweating and when combined with regular clothes I am able to function much better.

@adqak503

3 жыл бұрын

Kuiu mostly and then Patagonia. Digging your videos. Also ANC based. Keep up the good work.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

@@adqak503 Thank you for sharing your gear. I am guessing you are retired Coast Guard based on that Kodiak handle in your username? What a beautiful island. Always fun to meet another Alaskan on here.

I am from Chile and I was bornt in south, when I was kid my great grand mother made me base layers and sweaters about merino wool because in the south there are thousands of sheeps then for her was very cheap to buy the wool and kniting weaving the cloth by her hands than buying cloth for us in a shop. I never felt cold in winter, I played a lot oudoor like normal kid and of course I sweat but never felt cold because now I understand the magical properties of the wool. Now, 35 years later, I understand I was super lucky to have had my great grand mother(RIP 2013) who made wool cloth for me as now days merino wool is very expensive over the world as got very popular. When no internet, old times were wiser from popular wisdom from elder people.

@mrjones4249

2 жыл бұрын

It seems like people from many years ago were wiser in many things. Cachai?

@daughterofthelord01

2 жыл бұрын

You were truly blessed.

@christusrex8158

2 жыл бұрын

That's a cool story.

@christieforcelsius3648

2 жыл бұрын

My mom hand made everything for me and all my families in China including waving her own fabrics! Today I am knitting a outfit sweater and looking for a wool linen to add to inside

@davem6442

2 жыл бұрын

Very cool story.

For extra stinky armpits, hand washing with dawn dish soap really helps reset the fabric!

@hector5299

Жыл бұрын

I use fresh lemon juice. I always carry a small bottle in my pack. I will add water to my waterproof laundry bag, the lemon juice, squish it for a few minutes, then let it soak for a while… Rinse the base layers with fresh water and hang to dry. This always gives them a fresh lemony scent. Then I chill the lemonade then share it during my campfire stories. It’s a crowd favorite on hot summer nights!

Best thing i found is a very thin grid fleece with another thin grid on top

I agree with the zip downs to regulate temps

I live in washable merino. Synthetics have always made me feel icky and cold. For a couple decades after synthetics hit the market it seemed like that was all that was available (other than not-an-option cotton) and I was thrilled when Smartwool arrived on the scene. I love my midwieght Smartwool 1/4 zip, but my everyday top is the Seg'Ments lightweight merino long sleeve tee that shows up briefly in Costco stores in the fall. I always buy several. Merino does have durability issues, and mending is painstaking work, but it is worth it.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

May and I both own the Costco Merino you mentioned. And we agree, it is our daily work horse for the spring, summer, and fall. That is good to hear it can be mended. Also good to hear we aren't the only ones who get that strange feel from synthetics 😆

@karenvonbargen4472

Жыл бұрын

Wear and an ambitious moth got the underarm of my Kuhl merino 1/4 zip but I’ve been very successful grafting on an old t shirt to fix the damage. There are several great videos on mending moth holes out there, worth taking a look because merino is pricey!

@josephinegibbs3902

Жыл бұрын

@@karenvonbargen4472 As my collection of merino has expanded and aged I've started mending small holes with simple, colorful embroidered flowers. It's fun trying different mending tactics. I agree that sometimes a patch from another old garment is the best method, especially in cases of extensive damage. Long live merino!

@jerrkyd

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. I am a regular shopper at Costco and have always been skeptical of the very popular 32 degrees brand. I have never seen Seg'ments Marino wool at my local Costco in Massachusetts. I briefly saw a brand of Marino wool base layers at a Costco in Vermont. The brand was Karbon. I think this may be a "made for Costco" brand because I couldn't even find them with a Google search. I did however see Karbon brand snow shoes at my local Costco.

Great video! Very informative. I've always loved Smartwool!

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! I wish we could say we always loved it. The first time we tried it was only maybe 5-10 years ago. Before that it was just standard itchy wool. Loved the wool, hated the itch.

@playingwithsticks , Your little boy is having a blast on his ski bike! 😄🏍️ That's awesome! He will look back at that video with a heart full of love for his Dad. I was truly blessed with some gifts from the thrift shop towards the end of this season. A month ago I bought a puffy super light 0.5 or so loft sweater of alpaca, rabbit fur and merino with a little bit of nylon for strength! Best I own now, but less than $10 new with tag still on it. Last week I found two base layers of 100% merino! One brand new light weight in my favorite color and the other a tan heavy quarter zip. The brass zipper matches the tan and like you said, it is extra good at thermal regulation. More comfortable than any cotton I own. They were basically free at a $1 each. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father if lights..".. Your little gift on that bike is infinitely more of a precious gift. You are truly blessed. ☕🙂👍

I love everything "icebreaker" .

What I learned after 61 years of kayak and winter outdoor hiking in Sweden: 1) HellyHansen LIFA-Active baselayers are the best for high-activity paddling and hiking. 2) The current merino whool baselayers are not strong enough for outdoor high-activity and really need blending with other materials otherwise it will form holes immediately, mostly already on the first day of usage. 3) The very best material for low-activity winter baselayer is a blend of merinowool and silk (Klättermusen sold it until some 8 yesrs ago and stopped selling it because it was too expensive for them to make).

@gboates

6 ай бұрын

Agree with #3. I don't find 100% wool base layers anywhere here in Canada. For snowshoeing and snowboarding my wife has long underwear (Icebreaker) 100% merino which she wears on top of cotton or silk ( silk she bought in China). I wear a snug white organic cotton t-shirt under my waffle one piece Patagonia expedition weight long johns with hood. That's good for up to five hours and if cotton gets too wet just peel it off. I always like a snug cotton t-shirt against my skin. Dislike HH Lifa... and other recycled pop bottle garments - reminds me of a bad Xmas present.

@yeutruyen8146

3 ай бұрын

Thanks for saying that. I can knit myself a merino wool silk blend no prob. I dont do anything heavy, just brief walk like jogging. I can designed one where friction areas (armpit elbow, etc shedland wool instead of merino. I get itchy around the neck with just wool, can only do merino or cashmere., ofcourse silk but silk doesnt wick well, right? The price of not buying gym membership and enjoy the fresh air while working toward better health….

I completely agree with the description of "clammy feeling" when wearing synthetic gear. I've been looking into baselayers lately. The 90%/10% you mention is what I got recently. They are great. The nice part is that I think the 10% synthetic part keeps it from stretching out very much. Thanks for the video. Now I know what I should get for my next set.

I feel the best in wool. It just makes me feel better knowing I am wearing something natural. I don't want plastics on my largest organ, the skin.

Please, it’s important to know the awareness of polyester as it’s made out of oil you start sweating you absorb the oil and it gets into your bloodstream. Not too many people are aware of this or even talk about this. As I advise you to search into it and spread the awareness thanks

Jumping on the 100% merino wool with Ice Breaker for this winter season. Ran 100% synthetic my whole life and am done with the drawbacks. Wife has used 100% merino for years since she as issues with the cold and she swears by that material. Stay warm everyone.

I'm a bigger guy but love the winter outdoors. I ski and fish for steelhead/salmon all winter. I've always been a person who is always hot and has no problem breaking a sweat. I've been utilizing merino wool base layers for the last few years. Obermeyer, Simms, and Patagonia all have top quality base layers in my opinion. I'm sure there are others but those are my personal favorite for a cpl reasons. 1. Obviously warmth when needed. 2. Comfort against bare skin. 3. The ability to allow excess body heat go so I do not overheat and start sweating profusely. 4. Their abilities to no stink when I'm living out of my truck for a week fishing and wearing the same base layers. Gross I know but I dont have convenient access to a shower and I'm 6hrs from home. Just my personal experience with base layers of it helps anyone.

Hi from France ! thank you for this video , very nice ! personnnaly , i use Merino/synthetic blend and synthetic for summer ! My choice with experience ! merino is too expensive, too fragile, not durable and ultimately for me it only has the advantage of not retaining odors! We can find synthetic that manages odors well now too! This is just my personal opinion. Maybe it will be innteresting to see some new material like mesh base layers soon ....Thanks another for the video ! bye 🙂👍

I highly recommend Grip6 Merino wool socks for hiking!

I confess, I am a hard core wool freak. There is such a variety in types of wool and weaves it is hard to find one that does not meet a specific need. For cold weather base layer top and bottom - merino has never let me down. I love alpaca wool for socks, hat, and mittens for warmth, softness and durability. Boiled sheep’s wool boot liners are a must. ❣️🐑❣️

@Kaciebabii

2 жыл бұрын

Wow thanks for the info!!

@khalidzamzamkz

2 жыл бұрын

Are alpaca wool socks better than merino wool? Like darn tough socks

@vanished3306

2 жыл бұрын

@@khalidzamzamkz Considerably more durable and warmer. The price of 100% alpaca accurately reflects the difference. There are wools superior to alpaca, but they are priced out of my reach.

@yeahLOUIS

Жыл бұрын

Boil?

@Portia620

Жыл бұрын

Alpaca is nice but didn’t know how warm it was compared to shearling

Very well put together video. It can be so easy to get overly nerdy on explaining these kinds of subjects, but you make it very practical and plain spoken. I’ve been experimenting with so many layers the last few years for backpacking and skiing. What I’ve found is that all of these various materials can behave very differently when layered creatively. For example, I have grid fleece pieces that are wicking baselayers, but start to insulate pretty well when moved to a mid-layer. Activity specific is super important as well. I’ll reach for a thick flannel if I know I’m just going to sit around in camp. Believe it or not, my go-to year round base layer is a Patagonia Tropic Comfort sun hoodie. While it breaks the rules by being looser fitting and no zipper, it always feels cool next to skin, wicks efficiently and dries instantly. I then pair that with an Appalachian Gear All-paca hoodie, which is 100% alpaca wool and gives any merino or synthetic a run for its money. Then a wind shirt or puffy on top and you’ve got an amazingly versatile 3 piece system for active and resting. Oh, and one thing I will say for cotton. An appropriately lightweight and loose fitting cotton in extremely hot and arid conditions is more comfortable and even safer than a wicking layer. You actually want to retain the sweat moisture to help cool your skin rather than accelerating evaporation. Experienced this first hand here in Texas to make me a believer.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Now this is some good sharing. Really appreciate you taking your time to break this down for all of us. Just looked up the Appalachian Gear Company. They have an alpaca sleeping bag liner. How neat is that! I like how they also mentioned the other uses for it, like a stadium seat or for throwing around your neck while at camp.

@jpriddle

3 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks as a newbie to the world of campers, I’ve gained a lot of wonderful information from your channel. Glad to be able to give back a little on a topic I have some personal experience with. I, for one, would like seeing some more of this kind of content here as well.

the scenery is so beautiful

Really perplexed by the talk about merino wool shirts wearing out easily. I hike 2-4 times a week, ski all winter long and the same 3 smartwool shirts and 2 sets of long johns have lasted me years. Same with merino wool socks. Some of the most durable long lasting socks I've ever owned.

Cool. Dealing with cold is not an easy thing, so I have a lot a respect for your experience there. Thanks for the video.

My husband says the same thing. He feels “clammy” when he wears synthetics. He ice fishes and definitely believes in base layers!

I started investing in Merino Wool clothes. Merino Wool keeps you warm. In the winter and cool in the summer.

Well, what I have found that works for me, is exactly what you said verbatim!! Smart wool 60% long sleeve and short sleeve shirts, 60% darn tough Marino wool socks, smartwool 40% or so longjohns. 🤙🏻🤙🏻 stay cool y’all.

I think synthetic pulls moisture from the skin so fast, that you can get get a sort of evaporative cooling affect. I too notice that synthetic makes my skin feel cold. Wool, on the other hand, pulls moisture off of your skin by absorbing it, and then releasing the vapor as a two step process. I’ve always noticed that wool makes my skin feel warm and dry.

I have seen a lot of videos on gear for hiking yours was the most informative of all of those combined. NICE JOB !

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful Doug!

Great video, thanks!

I just came back from a camp in Scotland. We got rained on, snowed on, and then spent a night in a tent, soaking wet, being woken up every ten minutes when the snow slid off the tent. My takeaways were this. My woollen army surplus watch cap stayed warm even when soaked. (then on day two I discovered I brought the wrong one, it was 100% polyester) My focus on "good kit" rather than "layers" meant I had to strip off wet kit and lay it out to dry, which could have been used to keep me warm. I should have brought my massive Austrian army surplus woollen socks, but for some reason I keep saving them for something "special". A super thin, light weight, water resistant outer layer, like a poncho, will take the hit out of many weather conditions. Ventilation is king. I cant stress this enough. Ventilation is everything. I was bitching about my new tent because it let too much air through, but in the morning when my kit was dry, I took it all back. You release between one and two litres of water per day from your sweat and breath. If I could go back in time and do that camp again with the same kit, I would be able to tuck up in bed at night warm, dry and toasty. I let myself get wet, let myself sweat too much inside my clothes, then had to ditch everything so I could get into my bag dry. And my bag was not enough insulation.

Thrift stores yield fantastically cheap 100% merino, silk, cashmere, and even (insert drum roll)…..alpaca!

@missourimongoose7643

2 жыл бұрын

I didn't know Martha's vineyard had thrift stores lol

@robertmangum5101

2 жыл бұрын

@@missourimongoose7643 Hotlanta 🔥 Cat Daddy!

@sdericmonty

2 жыл бұрын

@@missourimongoose7643 laughed pretty good at that one

Personally, I’m a big fan of the Merino/synthetic blend, especially in mid weight. I sweat more than average (even without insulation layers if very active) and 100% Merino does not wick or dry fast enough for me; the blended ones are noticeably better when mid weight. Lightweight 100% Merino seems to feel warmer because it wicks faster for me. That said, the very thin, low price synthetic 32 Deg brand from Costco is surprisingly warm, very low weight and has a fraction of the odor problem other synthetics have.

Thank you that was a great massage

I purchased the Women's Unbound Merino Wool Women's Capsule Wardrobe.

So refreshing to hear a reviewer that knows their subject. 61 one years later and I've tried a ton of base layers. I'm not convived by blended pieces but I'll give the Patagonia piece a go. To my mind Merino is the best ... by far. Happy Hikes!!

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed this Don. Merino is really hard to beat in our opinion as well. We have had a handful of folks reach out to us after making this video suggesting we try alpaca. Seems to be a pretty strong following for it. Also a ton of folks really love their LIFA by Helly Hansen. We have never tried these as well. Happy hiking to you as well Don!

@FreeMissions

2 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks have you tried Uniqlo heat tech?

@PlayingwithSticks

2 жыл бұрын

@@FreeMissions No we have not.

great transitions man.

Merino base layers for me. In the town where I live (Wigan) I find a damp 2c day worse than a dry minus day! 😊👍❤️🇬🇧

Cold is good for you. See the Ice Man Wim Hoff!!

I wear merino wool exclusively as a base layer, my kid too. Never liked synthetic materials against my skin and never bought them for winter layers no matter what the trend or marketing. And I find merino wool very durable, I own several pieces and they last, great odour regulating properties too. Wool doesn't like frequent washing, just hang it outside, fresh air, sun and wind will do the thing. Or do handwashing with gentle liquid. Money saving tip - buy merino layers second hand and go thrifting. All my merino clothing is thrifted and in excellent condition even after wearing myself for many years. Or buy on sales at the end of the season.

@badbush2414

5 ай бұрын

Sorry, I prefer new collection Gucci

Great video again...thanks for sharing! I've always been partial to the Patagonia brand....Yvonne Chouinard, a famous rock climber, started the line where I lived in Ventura, CA at The Great Pacific Iron Works Store I used to frequent back in my youth. I still have a couple Patagonia sweater/pullovers from back then that I bought at the store in the 80's...that still fits (which I rather proud of lol).

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

That is so neat that you experienced, or lived near a bit of history within the brand. And you should be proud about that fit. That says a lot about your willpower. Or, you just have amazing genetics 😆

Thermal fleece or sherpa lined (fur inside) hoodies are warm. Not to be worn alone except in 40-50 F weather. They are great.

Uniqlo heattech baselayer. Never felt clamy but did stay warm and dry.

I buy my merino wool base layer in the January sales from a large department store. These are usually pretty hideous to look at but as I’m using for a base layer it great to get them with a 70% discount 😎🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

@Legionnaire7777

2 жыл бұрын

I always use my old John Smedley thin merino jumpers had them for years for base layer they work a treat.

I want to express my deep gratitude for this great video. You did not try and sell me something or advertise some shitty shake. You really shared information that helps people to find the right thing for their own needs no matter the brand.

@msm9430

Жыл бұрын

LoL at "...advertise some shitty shake..."

Thank you!!!

Thank you great informative video

As a Korean, I always choose the synthetic because I gain all of the pros and do not care about the smelly portion because I lack the gene for the sweat odor. So, even when I sweat, it smells like nothing! It is awesome lol 👍

@PlayingwithSticks

Жыл бұрын

I have never heard of that gene/odor thing. That is so cool.

@Portia620

Жыл бұрын

I don’t sweat much either and really don’t understand what this thing is about people sweating so bad like I guess they just do I barely sweat

@glamsky3257

Жыл бұрын

I sweat but not stink at all except underarm. Deodorant takes care of that.

@Swearengen1980

7 ай бұрын

@@Portia620 You clearly don't live in Florida.

@memefeed2147

7 ай бұрын

Sweat odor isn’t so much as a genetic thing it’s more what kinds of diets can your genetics tolerate to not produce odor. The vast majority of people are capable of odorless sweat if they adhere to stricter dietary regimens.

Thank you for telling us how you feel in synthetic thin 1st layer clothes. I too feel uncomfortable and down right cold. I have tried to like them but am miserable when using them. I really thought it was just me, thanks to you I know different. I am definitely going to bump it up to a wool blend of some sort. So helpful you are..thanks. Merry Christmas.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

You are making me feel great here as well. I kind of thought I was in the minority because I never read about this online. Since publishing this video there have been quite a few people like you and I who feel the same way. And yes, the Merino is the trick to a much more comfortable base layer for folks like you and I. Merry Christmas!

@happycamper5193

3 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks looking for ideas. I start night shift tonight. I work outside. I have to wear outter layer Fire retardent 100% cotton jumpsuit. I have Merino wool for base layer. what would be a good mid layer to keep me warm with temperatures at 40°. If I cover the wool with a thermal is that defeating the purpose? I work with Sparks and welding. I forgot my FR jacket I'm working out of state and I don't want to spend a lot of money.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

@@happycamper5193 So in theory the moisture from your merino would eventually let out into the jumpsuit where it would accumulate. So I would try to get something that would quickly move the moisture from the merino to the jumpsuit. So basically a synthetic that breathes. I would look for a puffy down jacket that is very light weight. On the high price would be a patagonia nano puffy jacket. Incredibly light and packs small and is synthetic down. But I am pretty sure you could find some nice knockoffs at Backcountry.com using their backcountry brand or their Stoic brand. Hope this helps Donald.

@PapaSMURFFS

3 жыл бұрын

Add me to that list of people who feels cold in synthetics, and the list of people who is super glad to realize it's not just user error or something else strange that I'm doing wrong.

@brianluck84

2 жыл бұрын

Wool for the win, synthetic don't warm me like others claim

Best video on base layer!

What works for me is tight fitting lightweight synthetic under armor type t-shirt and long boxers, and then lightweight or midweight full length long underwear over that. For that second layer I like silk (light) or polypro (medium). I'm sure I'd like merino.. it's just that my clothing predates it and it hasn't worn out yet. Wearing two sets of underwear changed everything for me. Generally I skip the insulating layer entirely and just wear shell pants and maybe jacket until I'm no longer on the move. I only bust out the insulating layer when I stop to eat, or stop for the night.

Me, who lives in a hot climate and will probably never need this information: Interesting.

Blue jeans, Metallica tee shirt, ripped flannel and some white new balances. Super technical gear.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

YESSSS!!!!! 🎸 We don't heart a lot of comments. This one definitely comes with a heart.

@scottshoe842

3 жыл бұрын

All made from dyneema

@gdoldays9964

3 жыл бұрын

@@scottshoe842 🖐🏼😆

@aerobill8554

3 жыл бұрын

@@scottshoe842 I work at DSM, the company that makes Dyneema, so thanks !

@rowanhealy

2 жыл бұрын

@@scottshoe842 Hahaha!

Enjoyed your video! Great work.

the heavy metals like aluminum in chemtrails now in soils snow water air ...rinse in white vinegar to get rid off ...water filter ur shower ...white vinegar rinse in all ..the wv reduction protocols for ur radius environment ..cleaning up it all is the new norm...great info about layers thank u 🤏🏻✌🏼🌎

Great information! I need to watch this many times to absorb the knowledge! Thanks! My biggest problem lately is the unfathomable number of choices - most with the same marketing positive characteristics. I end up with a not-so-short list and buy nothing.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Was that pun intended "absorb"?

@mikemead2315

3 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks Ahhh ..... lets say yes😉

Really excellent informative video learnt plenty in there .... thank you 😊 Love Decathlon Merino for long treks non smelly after 14 days in Himalayas but also really like Helly Hansen Lifa been using for 35 years while running simply the best apart from the smell 👃 hence the phrase smelly helly

Thank You!

Very traditional yet almost unknown in the US: mesh. Looks odd but it's the best. Edmund Hillery climbed Mount Everest with it. I know it from my granddad, German Navy veteran, WW2. I think Brynje products (Norwegian) are also available in the US.

My favorite top is a merino long sleeve I got from Costco about 20 years ago. Looks new and I feel it’s a base layer that does warm. Only the coldest weather I will need a base layer bottom. I’m from Canada

@r_itchytrigger

3 жыл бұрын

Haha, Im from Canada. Enough said. costco Merino wool socks are the best aswell. Im from Canada too so we know whats up!

@i_know_youre_right_but

2 жыл бұрын

@@r_itchytrigger are you from Canada by any chance?

I use both merino wool and the synthetic blends. For colder days, I feel the synthetic with the fleece lining(cheap generic brands) feel warmer next to skin, then top it with a midweight merino. I also have the one piece ninja suit which is super warm and comfy.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

We just saw that ninja suit this year. Looks pretty cool. I was actually tempted to pick one up. But, May just gave me the look! She's right, I own way too many baselayers. Thanks for sharing your layering system. I will have to try that out.

Thank you for the information.

Thanks for making this objective report 😊

100% spot on, great overview of base layers! I find I tend to prefer merino wool for cooler temps or when I'm going to be camping and don't want build up a stink, but am not being super active. For me, even the thinnest merino isn't comfortable when its hot outside and much prefer synthetic base layers in warmer weather. Patagonia Capilene is my favorite for comfort and performance. We always found cheaper decent synthetic base layers for kids at Target/Costco, etc.

@Swearengen1980

7 ай бұрын

Agree. People who say merino wool isn't hot in warmer weather doesn't know what warm weather is. You'll get heat stroke if you wear that in Florida 6 months out of the year. I love merino wool for winter, hunting, or heading north. For summer hiking though? Nope.

@theoutdoordad7395

7 ай бұрын

@@Swearengen1980. 100%. It’s unbearable at southern summer temps and humidity.

@Swearengen1980

7 ай бұрын

@@theoutdoordad7395 There's no material that moisture wicks away deep south humidity. Actually I need more layers/warmer clothes in Florida at 50 degrees than I do 30 degrees in the Appalachians. The lack of humidity there, that's a beautiful, crisp cold. Humidity just ruins everything.

100 percent agree with your assumption on synthetics leaving you clammy. This is because synthetic doesn't "condition" the air at all. If the material cant absorb moisture within the strand, than it cant condition moisture and humidity. Wool leaves you feeling dry cool, whereas synthetic leaves you clammy cool.

very informative. thank you.

Great explanation buddy. Thanks

If I'm buying merino wool my go to brands are Smartwool and Icebreaker. A bit expensive though. I work outside in the cold and find that the synthetic "polar weight" options from Terramar are fantastic. Not cheap but not as expensive as merino wool. I do prefer merino wool when I'm hiking though.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing this. Terramar is new to us.

@meganmcdonald5229

2 жыл бұрын

Icebreaker 😍

I'm from New Zealand so a huge fan of Marino wool. Mostly use the Icebreaker brand. I trekked up to Everest Base camp and didn't shower for over a week and I felt fine, as well as being pretty warm.

Thank you!

I have a Duofold 100pct polyester Thermolite base btms had them over 20 yrs they are my go to

I’m 4 minutes in and already learned so much. It makes you feel so much better when you’re purchasing clothes/equipment and you do so from an informed and knowledgeable perspective. Cheers mate, great video!

@ProvidingSpam

Жыл бұрын

No

@Mike-fs4vz

Жыл бұрын

@@ProvidingSpam Well said mate, very erudite, clear and concise and making total sense 👍

With the discovery earlier this year of microplastics in the majority of blood tested, makes me really want to shy away from synthetics all together. We are perhaps, unknowingly, changing our biology for convenience.

@mdub2000

6 ай бұрын

What is the alternative that have the same wicking property?

For anyone wanting a nice and affordable wool base layer for babies/kids, H&M has great option and at the end after year they have them on sale ( just gotta keep an eye on what you want) I got a wool body suit and leggings for my son for under $20 ( for both) and they have nice opinions for for older kids as well ( original price of about $75 but on sale for $20 for a set of a shirt and leggings)

I read the old fashioned string vest under loose shirt does good job..traps air

Thank you so much for this thorough, thoughtful and helpful video! I would love your take on mid-layers and beyond. Maybe a full how-to-layer properly video. I feel like I see people covering segments but not the whole package. Thank you! Absolutely subscribed.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kris! We would love to do that video, but honestly we are not the right people to talk mid-layers. Not that we don't use them. We have tons in the house! But, we are so frugal we have never spent more than $50 on a midlayer, minus my most recent midlayer from Backcountry. With the base layers it was an easier video to make because I have worn base layers from $10-$150 and numerous brands. Unfortunately I have no idea how nice a "real" mid layer is. Sounds like something I will have to try next winter.

@kris.monroe

3 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks Very understandable! Thank you for taking the time to reply.

@meisjeViv

2 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks actually I'd be very interested to hear about your layering on top of the base layers, especially if you are frugal about it and don't really use 'nice' middle layers!

New sub, great info and way to turn a traumatic experience into a way to have a positive affect for yourself and others. 🙂 How about wicking for in hot weather to keep you cool (or for people like me that run warmer/heat up super fast and start becoming miserable at 75-80°+ before any added excercise)?

Very helpful, thanks

Mountain biker here. Thanks for info, still found it useful.

Hi, interesting video, and I have some thoughts myself on what works/doesn't. First off, I'm a lifelong sufferer with Reynaud's Disease - in my case it's Dante's Reynaud's, which goes beyond the 'normal' cold hands/feet that most people who have even heard of Reynaud's think of. Reynaud's symptoms include poor body temperature regulation - leading to dizziness/passing out, tinnitus and many others too numerous to list here. It's a syndrome, and individuals may have a unique mix of different symptoms. I get tired/pass out under heat stress, and have suffered with major tinnitus for 43 years (I'm 62 now). Synthetics, for me, are the enemy - too clammy, you get hot/sweaty, they dry out and your temperature drops too much - and so on, all day long. Check out the wool mesh stuff that several Scandinavian companies produce, and which are a staple for Scandinavian armed forces. My absolute favourites are Devold's wool mesh pieces, which are light, stretchy, rapid-drying and insanely comfortable. This stuff dries almost as fast as synthetics but doesn't feel clammy and doesn't stink before you're out of the door! Best of all, a more even body temperature can be maintained, which is just better for you, whether you have Reynaud's or not. Whether you go for synthetics or wool, I believe 'engineered' fabrics, i.e. - those with a '3D' structure - mesh, gridded, waffle, are better than plain jersey knit fabrics at doing what you want from a base layer. They have less material in contact with the skin, which can offset the clamminess of synthetics a little, if you just prefer those, and really helps wool dry more quickly. Since I can't bring myself to just throw it away I very occasionally give some of the gridded poly stuff I have a wear, but it's still not quite right, making my skin too hot and confusing my body's reaction to the heat I generate whilst exercising and I go right back to wool. Perhaps I should donate it all to a charity shop. I guess there are lots of people who don't realise their base layers are affecting them adversely and just put up with it or get away with damaging themselves everyday, like I did for years until I just couldn't put up with it any longer.

@danceswithbadgers

3 жыл бұрын

Hi, and thanks to the people who have given my comment a thumbs-up. I'd just like to add that I'm keen on spreading the word about Reynauds for this reason - my late mother suffered from Dante's all her life, undiagnosed until she was 78, when the reason behind the ineffectiveness of her diabetes treatments became clear. Later, when she developed blood-poisoning her blood stats were impossible to stabilise because of her Reynauds and she developed sepsis, which killed her. Reynauds is NOT trivial.

@FerventReminder

3 жыл бұрын

@@danceswithbadgers Interesting, maybe I'll look into it a bit more. I don't go to the doctor much and am quite young but I was told by my doctor once that he thinks I may have Reynauds. I'm not sure I do though--I looked at some pictures online and I don't recall having the same visual indicators.

@danceswithbadgers

3 жыл бұрын

@@FerventReminder Hi, yes Reynauds is a complicated syndrome and people may have any one of many symptoms or combinations. My father had terrible tinnitus, as do I, but didn't suffer with poor body temperature regulation. He did, however, suffer from congenital heart disease and arterial sclerosis, which fortunately I don't. I used to pass out under heat stress a lot as a child but grew out of it later, only for that to return in my fifties. It's linked, for me, to migraines, and my body over-reacts to sudden temperature changes in odd ways, the commonplace cold hands and feet is by no means the worst of these, and I can become disorientated and find myself unable to walk in a straight line when my blood pressure/blood sugar go suddenly haywire. Maintaining my weight and a level of fitness has definitely helped me avoid my Mother's fate so far. My Mother's treatment was compromised by her Reynauds and at the end, the medics were unable to continue with the treatment for sepsis they were using as it made her dangerously unstable and difficult to 'bring back' when she fell comatose. Sorry about the long reply, but it's complicated!

Great video! Base layers are soooooooo important! I really love the smart wool and Patagonia brands! They are awesome! The story about hypothermia sounds scary!

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Honestly, I always thought Smart Wool was a bit of marketing hype as well. But, after owning a ton of it. It really isn't that it is a special wool (many times they even have blends). What it comes down to for me is the stitching. The products feel right against your skin and inside your shoes. They are designed to be form fitting, but still move with your body. Now Patagonia I can't speak to as I have only owned about 3 of their items. But, all three have lasted over 15 years now. So I guess that says something.

@jessa.3857

3 жыл бұрын

Those are the 2 companies I've been getting my gear from the past few years for my outdoor training through the winters here in NYC.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

@@jessa.3857 Oh man. I have seen some of Casey Neistat's videos and it sure looks cold there in the winter! I can definitely see how you would benefit from those two brands.

@elyssarespaut9053

3 жыл бұрын

Also look into icebreaker for 100% wool. They have various weights of wool (lightweight for summer) then 200 or 250 for winter. I’ve done upstate ny hikes in December/January with 200 and 250 layers paired a scarf or gaiter, hat and gloves and have been comfy/hot in 20-30f temps. Additionally I’ve worn the 200 in the summer 90f bike rides and was a little hot but also didn’t get sunburn. Now I do the lightweight and I love it, and don’t need to put on sunblock on my arms since the sleeves cover me

@jessa.3857

3 жыл бұрын

@@elyssarespaut9053 I know about them from the same place I found out about smartwool and patagonia, a bike forum! 5 years ago, i decided I wanted to bike through the winter so i started doing my research online on forums and came across some great recommendations! I don't bike below 15F because it's too brutal for me and the gear I'd need is beyond me financially, lol. It's also very cumbersome to put on all that gear everytime you want to go for a quick ride. Zaps the joy out of the experience for me.

More-ino. Love it. Duckworth, woolly, meriwool. Just make sure it's less than 70%.

Just grabbed a padagucci crew and some other stuff. Hope that helps you some buddy. Dig It!

I wear two 100% merino wool sweaters. Medium and a looser large. I get them at Costco or the thrift store.

@MobileAura

3 жыл бұрын

There’s no replacement for merino wool base layer. It’s by far the best base layer, period. Cotton is dangerous, polyester stinks (also dangerous/bacteria). Make sure it’s 100% wool not 84% or whatever

@jackj6361

2 жыл бұрын

Why is cotton so bad? I walk 100s of miles and mountain climb down to -40c. I have only just started researching as my cotton stuff is thread bare after years of use. I do always use Merino socks though. Any reply with thanks

@jackj6361

2 жыл бұрын

Oh only use cotton as it feels nice, no probs with keeping clean, just wanted to lower the weight

@m_soko

2 жыл бұрын

@@jackj6361 alot of it depends on where you live/Hike. This isn't as much an issue in arid or dry climates. The difference is substantial when in a more humid climate as far as the moisture wicking/dry time.

@jackj6361

2 жыл бұрын

@@m_soko, I usually walk in the Himalayas but right now just finished The Cape Wrath trail in Scotland. Will be walking in Scotland through the winter so need a gear upgrade. Thank you very much for your reply :)

I'm a merino base layer guy because it fits the widest range of situations imo. I don't have to think about it as much. I get that high intensity activity, synthetics are better - but I'm still getting in merino to sleep.

@brianluck84

2 жыл бұрын

Wool for the win!

nice. thanks

I've started using a Brynje mesh base with a close fitting merino over the top, next a fleece and then featherweight windshirt followed by lightweight waterproof shell.. works brilliantly. Not my idea, just what I've learnt from various youtube videos and comments.

@PlayingwithSticks

Ай бұрын

I've been hearing a lot about this system the last few years. Thanks for sharing.

Long sleeved merino tees for winter base layer have changed my whole game. 190 GSM. I like the lightweight short sleeve stuff for the rest of the year or banging around the house. 150 GSM. Got rid of all cotton tees that aren’t concert crew shirts. Great video, thanks!

This was very helpful, thank you. I've been Mountain biking and struggling with keeping warm, especially when we stop, and my sweaty shirt gets cold. Then it takes a really long time to warm up again. I'll try the tight base layer methods and see if that helps.

@andyeunson270

3 жыл бұрын

Defeet make a nice sleeveless undershirt. I always wear one under a short sleeve jersey. Or Lifa short sleeve or long sleeve undershirt under long sleeves.

@bmdt81

3 жыл бұрын

@@andyeunson270 Thanks for the recommendation. I'll check it out.

@Tensioner

2 жыл бұрын

Keep a light jacket and warm hat in your pack. Synthetic shirts don't hold much water and dry fast. Lots of choices, you just have to find what you like but hard to go totally wrong with Patagonia.

training cold weather in alaska,first time ive found out wool capabilities,i never wear other fabrics than merinos,pacas,yak wool,eversince i got out.for me,i just simply dont worry when to do laundry😃.

Great video! thank yuou

Very good video. I’m a compulsive buyer of merino and I’d have 3 things to say: 250gr plus are middle layers rather than base layers. Their purpose is to keep you warmer when a puffy jacket might be too much to hike in. 2nd, the main advantage of merinos or any other wool over synthetics is the non-odour properties. The more you blend it with synthetics, the the odourless it will be. 50%-50% is not good enough for me but OK if price is an issue. I have 2 of those Pataginia Air Capilene tops: they are amongst the most comfortable, and thanks to their waffles which hold warm air, they are very warm for their weight. They are however only 50% merino, so they stick sooner. Another weakness is their fragility. Their stitches get caught very easily even on a finger pilled dry skin. Pulls stitches out. Not to be warn as an outer layer. Hope it helps

Been hiking for 40 years and this is the best explanation of the pro/cons of the various options. I like my lightweight wool, but feels wet after a while. Also not happy with synthetic stuff, but may need to try some better synthetic stuff like Patagonia Capaline. Thanx’s again for this video, going to watch it again!

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Glad this was helpful Brian. I can only imagine all the amazing things you have seen hiking. There is just something so special about that "what is around the next bend" feeling.

@andrewstambaugh240

Жыл бұрын

Might need to add some controlled ventilation to the outer later then. Armpit zips are a high value moisture vent.

You can wear Marino wool in spring .summer , fall , winter Dress shirts to underwear to t-shirts to pants and socks

Excellent!

@PlayingwithSticks

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it!

This was a great video. Very informative and dispelled a lot of misinformation and misconceptions. Being ex-military, I'm kind of biased towards synthetic polypropylene (know as polypro for military folks). It was part of our ECW (extreme cold weather) issue. 100% polypropylene top and bottom. From my experience, it's pretty hard to beat in terms of being fully comprehensive; it pretty much does everything. Also, from a price point standpoint, it's very economical and affordable; about $50 for a top/bottom combo. It won't look pretty and fancy like the name brand stuff, yet it does the job. Happy outdoors-ing to everyone! 😁

My favorite Canadian celebrities are Terrence and Phillip.

@PlayingwithSticks

3 жыл бұрын

Wait, did I accidentally make a S. Park reference in this video?

@timlois

3 жыл бұрын

@@PlayingwithSticks Oops, I meant to post this comment on the previous video I watched. My mistake. Loved your video though. Take care.

@kelseylantz1989

3 жыл бұрын

I fart on your grave 🤣🤣🤣T+P

@FikiFirmansyah

3 жыл бұрын

I loved their songs 💓

Silk is the one natural fiber that does not breathe in the summer. I think synthetics give that lightly sticky/smelly feeling because the skin doesn't breathe.

Trick to silk is having the right weave

Great video! I’ve always just strayed from cotton as a general rule. But, I’ve also been less than impressed by that clammy feeling of my synthetic layers.

@Curry952

2 жыл бұрын

AND… Really appreciate the note on kids’ base layers!

@ColoradoStreaming

2 жыл бұрын

Icebreaker has some really good wool and wool blend base layers.

I actually sweat more when I wear synthetics (sheets or clothing). I’m always surprised to see people say it’s a good option to use for base layers

@brianmgrim

Жыл бұрын

HeyDude: What particular characteristics of synthetic fabrics do you think causes you to sweat more? I.E., what is the mechanism which brings about your biological response?

Great information for someone living in South Florida and clueless about layering clothes. Let me help you with clothes if you come to South Fl. Hat, shorts, sunscreen, flip flops.