Hunting Washington Forum

Equipment & Gear => All Other Gear => Topic started by: grousetracker on January 13, 2010, 01:01:30 PM

Title: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: grousetracker on January 13, 2010, 01:01:30 PM: i ussually wear a t shirt as my base layer, but if i sweat im cold or wet until it dries, im looking for better idea,especially for winter hunting.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: rasbo on January 13, 2010, 01:03:55 PM: polar tech,when its really cold
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Special T on January 13, 2010, 01:04:27 PM: I hear underarmor works, but i find a hairy chest works fine fore me! ;)
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: jackelope on January 13, 2010, 01:04:53 PM: i am using the helly hansen HH Dry polypro stuff now. seems to work well. it is not warm at all, just a wicking material but good for a base layer...
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: huntnphool on January 13, 2010, 01:06:00 PM: Fat :chuckle:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Curly on January 13, 2010, 01:14:25 PM: Coolmax (http://www.coolmax.invista.com/g_en/webpage.aspx?id=15)
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: GoldTip on January 13, 2010, 01:22:38 PM: Under Armour works very well for me, I am a rather heavily haired individual, well from the upper lip down anyway. I sweat pretty easily even when in good shape and the Under armour gets the wetness away fom my body and keeps me dryer and warmer. It's ridiculously expensive, jmho, but once you buy a set you'll find yourself wanting to wear only that. I have found the Tech weight compression fit stuff from Cabela's to be damn near as good, and about 20% less expensive.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: high country on January 13, 2010, 01:26:58 PM: i have a bunch of stuff, depending on the weather. the only thing I look for is the lack of cotton and itch....any of the synthetics and wools work very well. whn it is bad cold I like the platte river fleece stuff, but I am not much of a brand shopper.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: 6x6in6 on January 13, 2010, 01:28:30 PM: Sitka's core bottom and core crew.
1st year with it was this past fall in WY. It performed better than I really thought it would considering we had temps ranging from 10* to 60*.
Was never uncomfortable at either end of that temp swing. I was really impressed with it at the low temps since I typically get chilled easily. None of that happened. I'm sold!!!
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: halflife65 on January 13, 2010, 01:29:12 PM: I wear the UA Loose Gear stuff most of the time. Pretty good stuff but if you need to wear it several days in a row, it starts to stink pretty bad. The UA bottoms fit pretty snug, like normal long johns.

I also have a pair of silk weight long johns (something like Mossy Oak or another somewhat cheesy brand) that I wear under the Sitka 90% pants (a REALLY good combo - probably my favorite unless it's hot) or under rain gear. Unless it's really cold, I get too hot with mid-weight long underwear.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Alchase on January 13, 2010, 01:33:29 PM: I use a Nike Dry-fit Tee shirt, they wick moisture really well
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Red Dawg on January 13, 2010, 01:35:22 PM: If you wear a pack the best thing that I have found is to were a cotton shirt on your morning hike and when you are done hiking hard change into your under armor or what ever you want to get. I cant say enough good things about under armor as it always keeps me from getting to hot or cold.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: swanny on January 13, 2010, 01:46:19 PM: Patagucci Capilene or SmartWool
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Holg3107 on January 13, 2010, 01:55:06 PM: Underarmour ColdGear, i love the stuff. Wicks moisture really well and is extremely durable. I have been using the same shirt for the past 8 years, and it is as good as new. I wear it hunting, snowshoeing, skiing ect... go get you some you won;t be disappointed.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: whacker1 on January 13, 2010, 02:30:35 PM: I wear a light under Armour short sleeve base and then build up from there. The next is a long sleeve base or Patagonia Capilene long sleeve. over the top of the light short sleeve. I swett like a stuck pig and this helps wick through multiple layers and get it away from the body.

I have 3-5 sets of under garment style base pants. shorts, long shorts - tight fitting base - virtually spandex material. wicks and prevents chaffing. If the weather gets cold then i got to the REI loose fit base layer. mid weight and then a heavy under Armour.

19 out of 20 trips, I only wear the heavy base layers when I change out of hunting clothes into stuff to wear around the campfire or in the sleeping bag. The heavy tight fitting stuff works good for this when you are not active.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: NRA4LIFE on January 13, 2010, 02:31:17 PM: Another vote for UnderArmour. I am a true believer after this last hunting season.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: woodswalker on January 13, 2010, 02:38:30 PM: merino wool if its COLD...poly/wool or lighter if just need a bit for sitting
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: coop2424 on January 13, 2010, 02:41:18 PM: I personally got Under Armour this year and I do not think I will ever change.. It is awesome for staying warm but keeps you warm and wicks moisture away.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: uplandhunter870 on January 13, 2010, 02:41:36 PM: Under Armor long sleeve cold gear shirt, the spandex looking material not the fuzzy long john one, i have one of the fuzzy long john ones too works just as well for staying warm just doesnt wick the moisture away as well it always ends up becoming wet and that sucks when the wind blows.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: robb92 on January 13, 2010, 02:48:58 PM: Uncle Sugar supplied polly props and fleece pant liners and top, if it is really wet I will wear two sets of thermals and then my chest waders, where I hunt behind the house is a swamp and ould/have crossed to get deer that have ran after being shot.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Special T on January 13, 2010, 03:22:06 PM: A some what cheeper way to go is polypropoline. It is mostly sold as socks. its a thin layer that is slick helps keep down abraision, and wicks moisture. I've seen shirts and long underware.... I think it was at an army surplus place....
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: bow4elk on January 13, 2010, 03:27:16 PM: Polypropylene or ScentBlocker for a base layer.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: yajsab on January 13, 2010, 09:34:04 PM: Depends if you are moving or still hunting. I tried UA and I like it like other said. But if I'm still hunt or treestand, after a while, I will get chilled. I now use fleece as base layer and it's all good. Wool or those Sitka base probably work as well if you can afford them. Fleece works for me.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: chef bama on January 14, 2010, 01:03:17 AM: Silk dress shirts from the thrift store. Warmer than cotton, soft under wool. And they don't stink like synthetics do after a few hours. $3-5 each so no worries about messing them up.

Haven't found any silk long johns that cheap, so still using fleece pants as an underlayer.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: carpsniperg2 on January 14, 2010, 01:24:28 AM: my natural insulation 8)
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: sako223 on January 14, 2010, 01:58:42 AM: Silk-cabelas & wool-Merino smartwool. These two will wick and insulate even when wet. No binding and a very broad comfort range.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Houndhunter on January 14, 2010, 05:56:11 AM: i like under armor heat gear or there loose gear
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: jackelope on January 14, 2010, 07:36:09 AM: I've never thought of a base layer as something that should be warm...
:dunno:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: WDFW-SUX on January 14, 2010, 07:49:19 AM: I ve got a great jock strap any one want some pics?
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Kowsrule30 on January 17, 2010, 03:37:50 PM: Long Jonhs..... Cotton when warm out.... Rocky gear when it gets colder..... Cabela's when it's even colder.....
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: TheHunt on January 17, 2010, 04:12:46 PM: UnderArmor... Both Heatgear and Coldgear
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: WDFW Hates ME!!! on January 17, 2010, 04:21:37 PM: I usually wear under armor, with fleece then wool on top... Always good to go in the cold. In the heat i am in my under armor.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: jager on January 17, 2010, 04:22:11 PM: Silk, Under Armor, Sitka base layers, SmartWool socks!
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: mattaylor81 on January 18, 2010, 09:13:44 PM: Patagonia Capilene or REI brand synthetics.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: TEX-X on January 19, 2010, 08:58:25 AM: latex or leather :chuckle: :chuckle:

in all seriousness if its chilly out i have silk thermals that work great.... but probly not good for sub-arctic temps
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: taylorpz on January 27, 2010, 10:36:59 PM: I bought a merino wool shirt from First Lite this year (saw reviews in both Eastmans and Field & Stream). It's not cheap, but hoo-boy it is super comfortable. Kept me feeling dry on several days of 8-mile hikes and it's been durable through several washings.

I liked it so much, that I bought some in black (plus bottoms) to wear at work (police officer) and it has been fantastic. Can't rave enough about how it feels comfortable and really moves the sweat to help you feel dry and warm.

I used to wear various polypro, fleece, and other synthetics. Some were good, some were not, but none can compare to this First Lite stuff.

In all fairness, I've never tried the UA cold gear for a shirt, but do have pants and I think they're the best of the synthetics (but I'd still grab my wool first).
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: MikeWalking on January 29, 2010, 12:04:07 AM: Thermax Polypro was my favorite. For now it's REI synthetic lightweight for a base all year around. Coolmax felt good. Been shying away from the UnderArmour $$$$!

Heavy Fleece-Poly for Mid layers. I usually hunt-hike in Cabela's WindShear pants and TEF60 Jacket (fleece, windshear, thinsulate, fleece) They're both very warm and just a light base layer underneath in temps down to about 35 or less if moving is enough. The TEF60 Jacket is about the smartest buy I made.

Bit of Trivia. Did you know that the woman who invented Polypropylene fibre got a Nobel Prize for it?
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: ICEMAN on January 29, 2010, 05:40:45 PM: I have used Duofold's product line....bought it at Campmor.com for years.

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/CAMOmnifindQueryCmd?storeId=226&catalogId=40000000226&langId=-1&searchCategory=&ip_state=&ip_constrain=&ip_navtype=search&pageSize=24&currentPage=&ip_sortBy=&searchKeywords=doufold (http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/CAMOmnifindQueryCmd?storeId=226&catalogId=40000000226&langId=-1&searchCategory=&ip_state=&ip_constrain=&ip_navtype=search&pageSize=24&currentPage=&ip_sortBy=&searchKeywords=doufold)

The price always seemed right at Campmor....it was always so hard to find what I needed locally.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: shanevg on January 29, 2010, 05:55:26 PM: I used Under Armor for years but got a Merino Wool shirt from Icebreaker for my birthday and I love it! No comparison to Under Armor. They show up on SteepandCheap.com pretty frequently for pretty low prices.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: halflife65 on January 29, 2010, 08:45:23 PM: Good call on steepandcheap.com. Seems like I buy something there every few months (recently got a new pair of Black Diamond trecking poles for about $50.) I'm currently using UA stuff and am pretty happy with it but I keep reading in different places that merino is the way to go. I might have to check that out next time it pops up.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: MikeWalking on January 29, 2010, 10:13:52 PM: Santa brought me a big bag of Merino wool socks this time. Instant all time favorite.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: WARHORSE on January 29, 2010, 10:18:26 PM: mossback told me he uses pink under armor! :yike: yes i said pink!
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: washelkhntr on January 30, 2010, 06:31:19 PM: My Father in Law keeps ranting about Smart Wool this and Smart Wool that. I think I am gonna have to break down and try it just to see what all the hype is about.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: mossback91 on February 02, 2010, 05:48:20 PM: Quote from: WARHORSE on January 29, 2010, 10:18:26 PM
mossback told me he uses pink under armor! :yike: yes i said pink!

it works!! hard to find my size though cause they only carry it in womens sizes.......no mens pink :'(
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: MikeWalking on February 02, 2010, 06:40:36 PM: Quote
it works!! hard to find my size though cause they only carry it in womens sizes.......no mens pink

Buy it in the lightest shade you can and wash it in Hot water with some brand new cheap red shirts... ;)

man my blood sugar must be waaayyyyy offff :chuckle:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: 280ackley on February 02, 2010, 07:01:44 PM: Quote from: TheHunt on January 17, 2010, 04:12:46 PM
UnderArmor... Both Heatgear and Coldgear
:yeah:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: uncoolperson on February 07, 2010, 05:47:25 PM: anything synthetic and light, and a spare in the pack.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: BkCntryXtrme on February 17, 2010, 10:05:46 PM: Russell Outdoors APXg2...better than Sitka, and half the price. I used this gear last fall, I guide in Idaho...It works very well...

Its new and a lot of folks have not heard about it...let me know if you are interested in learning more or check it out at lintonoutdoors.com

Thanks, Chad.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: h2ofowlr on March 02, 2010, 09:18:19 PM: Sitka Gear. I love the stuff. I had purchased all the Under Armour prior. It worked as well, but really seemed to trap your body odor in the fabric. I went with Sitka and also have Scent Lok base layers depending if I am rifle or archery hunting.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Intruder on March 03, 2010, 03:47:27 PM: Silk, poly, or poly/wool blend.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: bowtech721 on March 04, 2010, 12:31:24 PM: Under armour heat and cold gear depending on weather... love it
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: KimberRich on March 04, 2010, 12:46:36 PM: I use Wal-Mart Armour. Same as Under Armour but 80% cheaper. I had some under armour and after one season it was coming apart at a couple seams. Been wearing my $8 Wal-Martt Armour for 3 years and been totally happy with it in all conditions. :dunno:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Eli346 on February 02, 2011, 07:19:59 PM: X-Scents work great and dry out fast as they are moisture wicking. They also have a anti-bacterial for keeping scent down. I use mine for a 6 day hunt in the mountains and they don't reek and won't stand in a corner at the end of the week of hunting and hiking.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: CAMPMEAT on February 02, 2011, 07:25:22 PM: Silk up, poly lower.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Huntbear on February 02, 2011, 07:39:28 PM: I use polypro. tops and bottoms. However, I found the cuffs on the tops make my wrist break out.. weird, only place it does that.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: JPhelps on February 02, 2011, 07:43:00 PM: IceBreaker Wool Tops and Bottoms.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: MikeWalking on February 02, 2011, 07:52:07 PM: Under Armour briefs. Best ever. MY REI synthetic fleece has lasted for years. Had some Thermax years ago. Very good stuff.

Don't know if I have posted this before but an interesting bit of trivia. The Woman who created Polypro fabric (while trying to make something else) won a Nobel Peace Prize in Chemistry for it.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: SkookumHntr on February 02, 2011, 07:56:28 PM: Sitka
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Jamieb on February 02, 2011, 08:00:08 PM: Under armor
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: MAVsled on February 02, 2011, 08:55:47 PM: used it all in the last 44 years of hunting
listed in progression; old cotton, wool blends, poly, synthetic and finally merlino wool.
wish I'd discovered merlino wool base layers years ago.

have two sets; lightweight & mid weight of 90% merlino wool in black. if brand matters, one is first lite, the other core 4.
Mid-outer layer pants-jackets are dependent on camo needed for the surrounding environment; Sitka Forest, 2 sets/ASAT in cot-poly blend & fleece, 2 sets/Predator Fall Gray cot-poly & Fleece.
finally settled on this camo selection for multi state hunting needs. Sold all the mossy oak etc eastern camo stuff.

I'm a recovered but managing my camo clothing nicely now junkie ;)
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: bullcanyon on February 03, 2011, 06:09:24 AM: Last season I used paradox from costco. I think its fairly similar to under armour. Has a 1/4 zip and costs less than $20. Held up real well. It was a little longer than my ua so it stayed tucked in better. Ill use it again this year.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: BallisticsNut on February 03, 2011, 06:39:20 AM: Quote from: Alchase on January 13, 2010, 01:33:29 PM
I use a Nike Dry-fit Tee shirt, they wick moisture really well
:yeah:
This stuff is great!

I would advise, in cold weather stay away from cotton. A friend of mine told me that in cold weather that "Cotton is death" Of course, i didnt believe him. So, I wore my Nike dryfit with a cotton long sleeve shirt over. Within the first 30 minutes after leaving base camp in 5 degree weather, with a pack. I was soaked from sweat but still warm. As soon as we settled into our vantage point, I began to get cold. Within 30 minutes, I was freezing!!!. Luckily, I brought an extra long sleeve shirt in my pack. Once I changed, I was fine. I am a true believer, in cold weather. Cotton is death!
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Miles on February 03, 2011, 06:50:17 AM: I used these shirts last year, and really liked them. Cabela's had them on sale for $9.99 a pair, now they only have small and medium sizes available (I should have bought more when I had the chance).

If anyone can use a small or medium, they now have them on sale for $4.99, which is a steal.

I would wear just the shirt on my hike in early in the am, then throw on my polartec fleece when I stopped to glass or sit. The temp was right around freezing, and it would get a little chilly if I stopped or the wind picked up, but my shirt was dry when I reached the top.

(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.cabelas.com%2Fis%2Fimage%2Fcabelas%2Fs7_960875_930_01%3Frgn%3D0%2C0%2C1798%2C2000%26amp%3Bscl%3D5.2631578947368425%26amp%3Bfmt%3Djpeg%26amp%3Bid%3D2C6mH5j54UgK7L9m6lOOHq&hash=10953ec2f0ecd09218bc0d2960f43059690bb754)

Medalist® Merino Wool/Polypropylene Crew – Regular
Change Currency: USD Currency: USD

Regular Price:
$24.99

Sale Price:
$4.99

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Clothing/Mens-Hunting-Clothing/Mens-Performance-Underwear/Mens-Midweight-Tops-Performance-Underwear|/pc/104797080/c/104748480/sc/104495580/i/104034780/Medalist174-Merino-WoolPolypropylene-Crew-150-Regular/754000.uts?destination=%2Fcatalog%2Fbrowse%2Fclothing-mens-hunting-clothing-mens-performance-underwear-mens-midweight-tops-performance-underwear%2F_%2FN-1101032%2FNs-CATEGORY_SEQ_104034780%3FWTz_l%3DSBC%253BMMcat104797080%253Bcat104495580&WTz_l=SBC%3BMMcat104797080%3Bcat104495580%3Bcat104034780 (http://www.cabelas.com/product/Clothing/Mens-Hunting-Clothing/Mens-Performance-Underwear/Mens-Midweight-Tops-Performance-Underwear|/pc/104797080/c/104748480/sc/104495580/i/104034780/Medalist174-Merino-WoolPolypropylene-Crew-150-Regular/754000.uts?destination=%2Fcatalog%2Fbrowse%2Fclothing-mens-hunting-clothing-mens-performance-underwear-mens-midweight-tops-performance-underwear%2F_%2FN-1101032%2FNs-CATEGORY_SEQ_104034780%3FWTz_l%3DSBC%253BMMcat104797080%253Bcat104495580&WTz_l=SBC%3BMMcat104797080%3Bcat104495580%3Bcat104034780)
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Alchase on February 03, 2011, 12:24:03 PM: Quote from: BallisticsNut on February 03, 2011, 06:39:20 AM
Quote from: Alchase on January 13, 2010, 01:33:29 PM
I use a Nike Dry-fit Tee shirt, they wick moisture really well
:yeah:
This stuff is great!

I would advise, in cold weather stay away from cotton. A friend of mine told me that in cold weather that "Cotton is death" Of course, i didnt believe him. So, I wore my Nike dryfit with a cotton long sleeve shirt over. Within the first 30 minutes after leaving base camp in 5 degree weather, with a pack. I was soaked from sweat but still warm. As soon as we settled into our vantage point, I began to get cold. Within 30 minutes, I was freezing!!!. Luckily, I brought an extra long sleeve shirt in my pack. Once I changed, I was fine. I am a true believer, in cold weather. Cotton is death!

I keep an extra Nike dry fit in my pack in case I get sweated out on the hike in I just change my shirt and I am good to go.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: longrange7mm on February 03, 2011, 12:32:25 PM: Quote from: bullcanyon on February 03, 2011, 06:09:24 AM
Last season I used paradox from costco. I think its fairly similar to under armour. Has a 1/4 zip and costs less than $20. Held up real well. It was a little longer than my ua so it stayed tucked in better. Ill use it again this year.
I just bought some and have been wearing it at work were it is -40 and I really like it I think I will get more for hunting. Cant beat the price either
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: wsucowboy on February 03, 2011, 12:45:25 PM: I wear under armour. There expensive but once you try them you won't go back. They make really good socks to :twocents:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: dromero on February 03, 2011, 06:01:29 PM: Polar Max double layer Top. 100% Acclimate Dry Performance Fabric. I have used Sitka, Cabela's brand, Cabela's Wool, Under Amour and Polar Max long sleeve tops in one season. I liked the Polar Max the best, kept me warm, but wasn't too hot when hiking/packing elk out. Smelled the least after several days of straight use. Relatively cheap compared to Sitka and Under Amour.
Plus it's Made in USA.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: gasman on February 03, 2011, 06:09:30 PM: Cellulite :peep: :peep: :peep: :peep: :peep: :peep:
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: flinger on February 03, 2011, 06:31:35 PM: Quote from: longrange7mm on February 03, 2011, 12:32:25 PM
Quote from: bullcanyon on February 03, 2011, 06:09:24 AM
Last season I used paradox from costco. I think its fairly similar to under armour. Has a 1/4 zip and costs less than $20. Held up real well. It was a little longer than my ua so it stayed tucked in better. Ill use it again this year.
I just bought some and have been wearing it at work were it is -40 and I really like it I think I will get more for hunting. Cant beat the price either
love mine
The only problem is that it is at costco so it's seasonal ya got to get what ya want while they have it or wait 8 months and hope they carry it next fall
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: huntandjeep on February 03, 2011, 07:55:13 PM: I wear under armour or mountain hardware
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: fair-chase on February 03, 2011, 08:10:32 PM: I currently use Underarmor Cold Gear. Works fairly well. My only two complaints about it are the price and it seems to lack some flexability. Well, maybe flexibility is not the right word. For being a tight fitting garment it does not conform well and tends to dig in at the joints.

If I had to do it all over again I would go with the Sitka. I think Sitka has a better cut than Underarmor for us skinny guys. I believe Sitka is actually tailored towards thinner people and is much more comfortable for me. However, I am too heavily invested in Underarmor so the Sitka is going to have to wait a couple of years.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on February 03, 2011, 08:58:49 PM: I used wool as a kid, then synthetics (poly pro, polyester). Then underarmor (which is basically the same synthetic stuff), then this year switched back to wool, but a nice soft merino wool. The wool is hands down, WAY better then the under armor. Wore it for 5 days, still smelled ok. My underarmor stinks after 2 days. The wool even feels dryer, warmer, and cooler. Just seems to be much nicer. I liked the top so much, I went and bought boxers, and bottoms...

I kind of re-discovered wool due to my steelhead fishing trips. I found the high end synthetic socks I have never kept my feet as warm as a wool sock. I tried all kinds of combo's too, but once I went with a smartwool liner, and smartwool sock, I found the best combo. Damn, I sound like a commercial...

I'm still a big believer in polar fleece for an insulator, between my goretex or other raingear, but next to my body, thin wool!
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: losdaddy7 on September 19, 2011, 07:59:57 PM: patagonia base... Nothing better.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: runamuk on September 19, 2011, 08:02:07 PM: my feet live in wool usually year round....my budget cant afford wool base layer so using a polypro type dealyo...they work pretty good
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: MtnMuley on September 19, 2011, 09:56:31 PM: KUIU merino. Wicks moisture better than anything I've used before. Dries out in minutes.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on September 19, 2011, 10:02:48 PM: Minus 33 Merino wool top/bottom/boxers. Smartwool socks. I've tried underarmour, and still use it sometimes, but for base layers, can't beat wool.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: jechicdr on September 19, 2011, 10:30:08 PM: I like "Base Slayer" Scentlock. It wicks away the sweat pretty well, and I don't smell myself until I take it off to crawl into sleeping bag at night. I rotate them out (have about 3 pair for elk season) so they can dry out. In cold weather I have some wool long underwear with synthetic lining. I got that at Wal-Mart. Definitely like the underarmour for my underwear though, keeps the chaffing down.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Miles on September 19, 2011, 11:06:25 PM: Quote from: runamuk on September 19, 2011, 08:02:07 PM
my feet live in wool usually year round....my budget cant afford wool base layer so using a polypro type dealyo...they work pretty good

Run, Watch www.sierratradingpost.com (http://www.sierratradingpost.com), they have some great deals and you can often times find quality base layer clothes at a steep discount. The thing is you have to get it when you see it, cause the popular sizes can go quick.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Miles on September 19, 2011, 11:09:40 PM: Quote from: jechicdr@yahoo.com on September 19, 2011, 10:30:08 PM
I like "Base Slayer" Scentlock. It wicks away the sweat pretty well, and I don't smell myself until I take it off to crawl into sleeping bag at night. I rotate them out (have about 3 pair for elk season) so they can dry out. In cold weather I have some wool long underwear with synthetic lining. I got that at Wal-Mart. Definitely like the underarmour for my underwear though, keeps the chaffing down.

Have you ever tried the exofficio underwear? If not, I would highly recommend trying a pair. :tup: Underarmour is surely going to lose some market share (if they already haven't) to this company...
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: ICEMAN on September 20, 2011, 06:04:41 AM: Miles, I agree on the Sierratradingpost link...but hasn't exofficio been around alot longer than underpanties? UU 8)
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Miles on September 20, 2011, 06:38:25 AM: Quote from: ICEMAN on September 20, 2011, 06:04:41 AM
Miles, I agree on the Sierratradingpost link...but hasn't exofficio been around alot longer than underpanties? UU 8)

:dunno: That's a possiblility. I'm not really sure how long they've been around but I seem to notice an increase in locations that sell their brand lately. For example, Cabelas just started carrying the exofficio boxer/briefs not too long ago. Meanwhile it seems (to me at least) that underarmour isn't doing as well as they once were. Perhaps the "latest and greatest" is wearing off?
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: Miles on September 20, 2011, 06:42:29 AM: Yes, Iceman, you are correct.

ExOfficio was founded in 1986, and Under Armour in 1996.

Perhaps they are just taking back some of the market share they initially lost to UU?
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: boneaddict on September 20, 2011, 07:14:08 AM: cotton t-shirt
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: 280ackley on September 20, 2011, 06:53:59 PM: UA now but thinking about Kuiu Merino wool.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: TwistedTree on September 20, 2011, 11:37:56 PM: I bought one of the lightweight Kuiu merino wool shirts this year and used it during early archery. Performance was good, but it was more itchy than an Icebreaker 200g merino shirt with the same basic design. It wasn't horrible, but just enough to be a little irritating. I also wear an UA heatgear camo shirt which has been great for higher temps.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: RadSav on September 21, 2011, 12:08:35 AM: I've been a Sitka ambassador for some years. But, I never was willing to spend the money to gear up with all their Core and Traverse layers figuring my Cabela's Polar-Tec was just as good and I was happy with them. Then one of my other Sitka pals gave me a set of Core bottoms and tops for Christmas. MAN! Besides the Ascent pant and the Stratus jacket those are tops on my list as my favorite clothing items.

Once the mercury drops below 0 degrees I still use Polar-Tec over the top of the Core uppers and lowers instead of the Traverse layer. But, how often does that happen in Washington?

I tried UA once. I'm getting fat, old and hairy and I spent the whole trip pulling at them and scratching more than hiking. Plus I sweated like a fat pig in them. The squaw may occasionally refer to me as such, but I shouldn't sweat like one. Never used them again.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: SFD2015 on September 25, 2011, 04:58:33 PM: My Base Layer is always some sort of athletic wicking clothing. I prefer to wear compression lycra boxer briefs (Prevents chaffing and keep the twig and berries close and warm). Same with my Shirt top. If it's really cold, I use Poly Pro (Old School Army issue. Works GREAT). From there I build up depending on what season it is. I always wear wool WigWam socks with my boots (Costco sells them and feel great).

I try to stay away from 100%cotton and go for a Poly/Cotton Mix because cotton retains sweat (stink) and absorbs to much.

I think I have 1 piece of underarmor gear, otherwise all of my stuff is whatever is on sale or at the Nike Outlet store.
Title: Re: what does everyone use for a base layer.
Post by: DeerHarvester on October 02, 2011, 06:22:48 PM: I have the Kuiu Merino 185 Top and bottom base layer. They worked very well on my recent High Hunt, even after a hard sweat I did not get cold and they seemed to wick the moisture away from my skin. I did not find them to cause my skin to itch as one member mentioned. So far I am a big fan of Kuiu, I have several of their items.