Polypropylene vs wool base layer vs merino wool. synthetics), fit, durability, cost, and more.

Polypropylene vs wool base layer vs merino wool. Lightweight and quick-drying, they’re also usually more durable and budget-friendly than merino wool. Dec 26, 2012 · What do you prefer in cold wet conditions, merino icebreaker [or similar] or poly propylene for base layers? Mar 6, 2025 · See our guide to the best baselayers of 2025, with reviews of the top synthetic and merino baselayer tops from Smartwool, Patagonia, OR, Icebreaker, and more. Jun 10, 2025 · These days, base layers are typically constructed from natural fibers (Merino wool, bamboo, Tencel, and hemp) or a variety of synthetics (nylon, spandex, polyester) or a combination of the two. Jan 28, 2025 · Natural vs. That’s not to say there are not any other good base layer materials, but polypropylene and merino wool are the best that are widely available. Merino wool on its own is more susceptible to wear and tear, which is why we combine it with other materials (to enable longer-lasting use). Wool is hydrophilic, while polyester is hydrophobic. Jan 4, 2023 · Wool vs synthetic baselayers: which is better? Wool baselayer garments feel warmer than synthetic baselayers, but synthetic baselayers dry more quickly than wool. Nov 9, 2006 · What are the pros and cons of synthetic and merino wool base layers? Which fabric—polypropylene, Capilene, or merino wool—works better for layering, considering warmth, weight, and price? Jan 19, 2022 · If you are looking for a material that is specially designed for sports activities and other activities then you should look for merino wool or Synthetics. Merino vs. as a base layer, abrasion resistance isn't a big factor because that's what your hiking shorts are for. Is either of these better to have when mixed with merino wool? Synthetic base layers are made from high-performance polyester or polypropylene. Feb 11, 2025 · We tested and found the best base layers for women including top picks from Smartwool, Icebreaker, Black Diamond, and more. poly base layers. Find out which fiber wins for comfort, warmth, and durability. Disclosure: Brynje provided the author with baselayer garments for this review. Synthetic Fabric There are several materials that these tops can be made out of, including silk, cotton, Merino wool, polypropylene, polyester, etc. But hey, we’re impressed. Polypropylene is often used as a base layer in the production of clothing to make other fabrics more waterproof and improve their ability to draw out water to their outer surface for evaporation. I'm working on getting some new thermal base layers. Depending on your activity and the weather, choose merino wool baselayers for everyday warmth, breathable running baselayers for breezy morning runs, or protective ski thermals for active days in the mountains. For bottoms I'm thinking about getting something merino wool, but seems the merino is usually mixed (50-60%) with another material, most common being polypropylene and polyester. Dec 10, 2013 · Polypro was designed for active sports - so your sweat wicks thru to outer layers and does not lay clammy and cold against your skin. Feb 21, 2024 · Our merino thermals are available in a range of fabric weights, from 150 g/m² through to 220 g/m² styles and are ideal for year-round comfort and versatility in warm or cool climates. For ease of digestion and relevance, we're going to cover only the materials included in our current review selection — merino wool, polyester, and silk — and lay out the pros and cons to each. Apr 5, 2015 · New member planning 2016 DIY in Colorado. Oct 26, 2020 · Merino wool as a mid-layer is often made in 200 to 400 g/m2 which means it will be thicker than fleece and bulkier. Oct 29, 2023 · If a thin base layer isn’t warm enough, I prefer adding warmth with a breathable, non absorbent, insulation layer on top of my base layer Instead of using a warmer base layer made of thicker wool. Minus33 Top: https://amzn. Polypro stinks after a while but wears harder. High recommended, especially if you run cold in winter. Oct 27, 2022 · Polyester vs Polypropylene Most base layers are Merino Wool, or synthetic fabrics such as Polyester or Polypropylene, or sometimes a blend of the two. Nov 27, 2021 · Ok. After checking many popular base layer brands, I can see that some have very interesting product specifics. Mid-layers are often called insulation layers because they primarily provide insulation. The brand specializes in modern workwear and casual wear, all made of fine wool and wool blends. May 12, 2018 · So then we have Wilderness Wear's Merino Fusion which is a hybrid weave of Tasmanian merino wool (the best merino available - I may be biased ha ha) and ultrafine Schoeller polypropylene (the best polypro available) that creates a hard wearing soft feeling, moisture wicking, odour resistant material seemingly perfect for baselayer thermals. Learn about materials, warmth, thickness, and essential features in our comprehensive guide. , lift skiing), but lighter weight merino layers are very fragile. Merino garments regulate the body’s surface temperature whatever the atmospheric and exertion situations. However, pants are typically made of nylon as nylon provides better abrasion resistance than polyester. Top picks include Ibex, Patagonia, SmartWool, and more. Feb 18, 2021 · Merino wool vs. Let’s hear it. – we focus on our favorite natural material: Merino wool! Feb 22, 2024 · A technical guide to merino wool base layers for men and women, from lightweight to warmest. For base layers I use both ones made from synthetic based fibers as well as ones from merino wool, or a combination of the two to try and get the best of both worlds. Sep 12, 2024 · The Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight Wool Base Layer Long Sleeve Shirt, for men and women, is our most versatile pick, due to its breathable, merino-based blend and understated look. May 17, 2023 · VERDICT: MERINO WOOL Merino wool is the winner when you put all the factors together. Sep 23, 2024 · The best base layers and thermals for kids in both wool and synthetic materials. Mar 12, 2025 · Unlike Merino wool, synthetic base layers are created from man made fabrics – commonly polyester, nylon, or polypropylene. It is the perfect material because it does not make you sweat a lot and absorbs as much as possible, so you stay comfortable. Choose merino wool-blend performance baselayers for next-to-skin comfort, efficient wicking, natural odor control and just the right amount of stretch. synthetic fabric: which makes better base layers? We compare comfort, moisture wicking, sustainability, and more to find out. I've been thinking of getting some merino wool to wear instead of the Under Armour I have but I don't know if it would improve anything. Oct 24, 2024 · Two natural materials battle it out in a merino wool vs alpaca wool showdown. For base layer clothing, you want Merino wool that is graded as Ultrafine, Superfine, or Extra Fine, as anything coarser isn’t comfortable to be worn directly against the skin. Dec 12, 2024 · Smartwool makes a range of high-performance merino wool base layers. They are much cheaper of course, but not sure at what cost. Are highly durable and usually more budget-friendly than merino wool options. 100% Merino 95 merino / 5 synthetic blend 65 merino / 35 synthetic blends 50 merino / 50 synthetic blends At what point does the blend of synthetic cancel out the advantages of the 100% Jan 7, 2018 · Merino Wool vs Polyester The baselayer. My personal preference is a fishnet base layer made with polypropylene fibers. At just 5. Mar 30, 2025 · So, instead of you taking a risk with the wrong apparel, we’ve put together a list of the best Merino wool base layers for women to help you find the perfect shirt! And while there are several base layer materials – silk, nylon, bamboo, etc. For extreme cold, look for thermal clothing and base layers made from high-quality merino wool or advanced synthetic fabrics like polyester and polypropylene. Polypropylene Are you looking for appropriate clothing for your next outdoor adventure? Many outdoor clothes are made from polypropylene or merino wool, but it might not be obvious what the best option is. "I've always been a big fan of the merino wool layer—not stinky, stays warm when wet, provides a surprisingly good wind barrier," says Malcolm Dunn, operations program Merino wool: Merino is the multitasking marvel of baselayers—perfect for workouts, yet stylish enough for everyday wear. Sep 26, 2022 · See our guide to choosing baselayers, with tips on baselayer fabric weight, warmth, materials (wool vs. It's harder to find legitimate merino wool base layers, many of the cheaper like Target's are <26% blends. Both polypropylene and merino wool do their jobs very well. Oct 16, 2018 · We recommend Merino wool base layers for hiking trips in moderate to cold weather due to their incredible ability to prevent conductive heat loss. Merino wool is naturally breathable, moisture-wicking and offers excellent warmth without bulk, making it ideal for frigid conditions. Impartial snow reports from real people. Mar 6, 2025 · Merino wool is a super fiber. Although polypropylene is commonly blended, you can find 100% polypropylene socks. 37 votes, 54 comments. I have read the pros and cons of merino wool base layers - the control of stink, the keeping you warm, the comport, the fragility, the amount of time it takes to dry. This unassuming layer sits next to your skin, transporting sweat away from you and into itself—so that it can evaporate slowly without leaving you chilled. Merino doesn't smell but doesn't have the longevity of polypro (unless you hand wash it and hang to dry which most people can't be bothered with). It's the first thing we put on. May 10, 2024 · Merino wool is a natural fiber grown by Merino sheep, and a popular choice for base layers due to its natural moisture management qualities. Fleece base layers use these short fibers to create a capillary action to wick sweat away from the skin. Merino yarn is super fine, lightweight and soft on skin — without being itchy or heavy like traditional wool. my favorite items are 100% or 85+% merino. I had a set of synthetic and a set of merino base layer thermals I wore almost continuously for 3 months while living overseas in -12C winters, and despite regular washing of both sets, the merino set definitely outlasted the synthetic set. Polyester and Merino wool are used for both summer and winter base Oct 25, 2022 · Stephen Seeber BPL Member Companion forum thread to: By The Numbers: What’s the Best Base Layer Fabric? Wool vs. They also: Dry quickly with your body heat. Includes our top picks for hiking from Meriwool, Woolx, Minus33, KUHL, Smartwool, Icebreaker and more. There is room in your pack, and on your body, for both merino and polypropylene base layers. I have seen a few different options out there that are wool blend, usually 60% polyester and 40% merino wool. Sometimes, several factors make people purchase one option over the other. I am struggling with cheaper polyester vs more expensive merino wool. I want to get some Merino wool base layers but the 100% merino wool are outside my budget. The best merino wool clothing somehow manages to be comfortable in 95-degree-Fahrenheit heat, and merino base layers keep you warm well below freezing. I still wear the ragged/ripped 100% merino clothing because of the comfort and lack of stink. Apr 1, 2019 · Decided to do a few test to see how merino wool base layers did versus synthetic base layers. These “78/22” shirts are made Feb 13, 2025 · After several cold winters living in the Rocky Mountains, I've tested the best base layers for skiing, including Merino wool and stretchy synthetics. Polyester In this paper, I subject base layers in various weights made from merino, merino blends, and alpaca to the suite of tests I have developed to evaluate base layer performance. Synthetic base layers tend to be less expensive than Merino wool, and are often more durable. Learn which is best for your outdoor winter needs. Synthetic, merino or bamboo base layers? Because we Blondes are so helpful (but also because we love outdoor gear and staying warm), we’ve taken the time below to explain the advantages and disadvantages of three different types of thermal base layers. After all, according to the unbreakable laws of the hiking layer system, you should be wearing a wool base layer with a fleece jacket over the top, right? Nov 21, 2024 · Whether you're pounding pavement or trails, running casually or competitively, the Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino layers are staples for folks who want to stay warm and dry without the added bulk of a vest or jacket. Merino wool or polypropylene. For example, Devoid base layers like this one show that they have a 100% synthetic inside material, and the merino is only on the outside. Formerly with the 10th MTN Division stationed in FT. In this article we describe and compare the most popular materials used for hiking baselayers and thermal underwear — merino wool and synthetics. How would they stack up to 100% merino? May 4, 2022 · Wool vs. We also recommend Merino wool base layers for long hiking trips (no matter the temperatures) where odor-resistant clothing is crucial. The mesh design also allows moisture to transport to the outer layers in vapor form thus keeping you dry during periods of high activity. Nov 1, 2019 · This Brynje Thermo Mesh Review features both Super Thermo and Wool Thermo base layers utilizing an open-weave (fishnet) construction. Mar 12, 2023 · The good news is that the Brynje Wool Thermo base layers don’t stink up nearly as quickly as solid Merino wool base layers, so you can wear them longer between washes. Is this the standard or is this a marketing trick to get people to overpay for "merino wool"? Study proves wool’s fire resistance makes it the ideal fibre to protect military and first responders when Merino wool base-layers are worn. 4 oz, it's not much heavier than the Altitude, but gives you a lot more odor control and insulation capabilities. Merino wool, synthetic or merino blend fabrics The type of fabric you choose depends a lot on your activity level and desired amount of warmth. What’s the difference between merino wool and synthetic? What about blends? Merino wool comes from merino sheep and features thinner fibers than regular wool, usually less than 24 microns wide. Anything thinner than that has questionable durability. We've found the very best for babies up to teens. The mid-layer and base layer, as well as your gloves, socks and hat, will usually be made of merino wool or synthetics. In this article we take a look at merino wool base layers vs. Hi, I would like to try out net base layer clothing like the one from Brynje, but I would like to test it first to see if its… I learned about mesh baselayers from a recent video from @TheBearEssentials He does a much better job at explaining how and why mesh base layers work, so mak Dec 8, 2010 · Hi all, I decided to invest in thermal layer for my winter hill walking, but I am not sure what presents the best value for money. I've been happy with them, but they are starting to fall apart at the seems. Key benefits of merino include: Naturally temperature regulating Naturally odour resistant Jun 6, 2025 · Comparing lightweight merino wool and synthetic base layers reveals surprising breathability differences that could transform your skiing comfort—discover which one truly excels. (And often leave on the entire trip!) Baselayers can help stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It fits tight around the torso and offers good moisture-wicking and insulation properties. For stalking and walking hunting - go polypro. Mid-weight merino (180 or heavier) base layers are great for some mid-winter activities (e. For example, polyester is the option if the highest priority is durability. On the good end of the scale at a nine or ten you have synthetic fibers like polyester, polypropylene and natural fibers like merino wool. Jul 3, 2023 · In this short guide, we shed light on the differences between merino wool base layers and synthetic base layers, allowing you to make an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences. Have How to choose between base layer fabrics like merino wool, polyester or polypropylene and add mid layer fabrics and an outer shell to ensure you survive in the worst conditions nature has to throw Wool base layers have a very low warmth to weight ratio. I would also be very much interested in a blend of polypropylene with merino where its not just an inner layer of polypro and an outerlayer of merino, but where the different yarns are really interwoven. We also have breathable men’s thermal shirts and midweight crews that are smooth for seamless layering. to/3e6ITs3 Minus33 Bottom: https://amzn. It’s made with Schoeller® 80% Merino wool and 20% polyester Jan 21, 2014 · That’s an exception though. Learn how to properly wear and wash. This is why Merino wool is often blended with polyester fibers to increase durability. Oct 11, 2024 · Barring hydrophilic chemical treatments, fibers that maintain intrinsic hydrophobicity throughout their life cycle include polypropylene (synthetic) and alpaca wool (natural). Dec 2, 2024 · The top merino wool base layers to keep you comfortable anywhere From the softest long-sleeves to the best hiking socks, here’s everything you need to stock your travel wardrobe. You buy Merino wool if you need a material you can wear for an extended period without it stinking. May 6, 2025 · We tested the best men's base layers of 2025 with options for every budget. One of the company’s signature products is an 78% merino wool/22% nylon T-shirt that has a kind of cult following on some Reddit clothing subs dedicated to travel and menswear. Discussion board, ski club forum, snowboarding, off piste skiing Jun 30, 2019 · Which clothes are made of Merino wool/polyester? Polyester and Merino wool are typically used for base layers, mid-layers, hats, gloves and socks. snowHeads ski club 2. Jan 13, 2024 · When it comes to fleece vs wool, however, you might be wondering – which is better? If you’re a seasoned hiker, it might seem a bit strange to you to compare fleece to wool. Which is it and why? Sep 10, 2021 · Polypropylene is an inexpensive thermal wear option for general use. Choosing the best baselayer is super-critical to your The durability issues of 100% merino never really occurred to me for a long time, because my experience was with winter base layers. Another environmental issue is renewable wool production vs. I see there are some different blends out…. Amen to the guy that said being wet in the cold is bad news. The good news is, you don’t have to choose one fabric over another. What are the pros and cons of each and which should you buy for winter hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing? The Role of a Baselayer When dressing for vigorous winter activities, it’s best to use a layered clothing system consisting of a Oct 25, 2022 · We compare merino, merino blends, alpaca, and polyester fabrics as part of a framework to help hikers choose the best base layer. FAQs What is a Base Layer? Answer: A base layer is a fabric Sep 2, 2014 · Base layer materials explained, compared and reviewed. Merino is super comfortable in hot and cold conditions, handles a little dampness well, and doesn’t Aug 1, 2024 · Choosing the right long underwear (base layer) is essential—learn how moisture-wicking materials, fabric weight and fit affect comfort in the outdoors. Polyester is occasionally also used for (super lightweight or low-end) pants. What is yo Dec 3, 2018 · An example could be a hiker wearing a Merino wool t-shirt (base layer), lightweight fleece jacket (mid-layer), jacket with synthetic insulation (mid-layer) and a rain jacket (shell/outer layer). Between the two, you have every situation covered. Choose the best base layer for you and your activity. You still have to wash merino obviously, but is has far less of a problem. Alpaca vs. synthetic base layers, the pros and cons of each, to help you decide what you need. But if you compare Merino wool to high-end performance synthetic fabrics from innovative outdoor apparel companies, you’ll find that the synthetics provide equal or better performance at a cheaper price and with better durability. Sep 2, 2015 · So when selecting your next SHTF thermal base layer or just hitting the trail on your upcoming adventure to try out some of your latest preps, try using Merino wool with Tencel as a base layer; I guarantee you will be surprised at the lack of itch, the warmth, and the great feel of using Tencel with Merino, plus you are doing something for our Meghan Lee the retail manager here at Rhythm Snowsports takes us through the pros and cons of wool vs synthetic fabrics for base layers and socks. Drum (read: Freaking Cold) I am familiar with the synthetic base layers of the ECWCS clothing system but everyone here seems to go on about Merino wool. My concerns are: 1) will polyester keep me warm? 2) will merino wool get wet and cold when exercising (intensive walking)? Jul 17, 2020 · Wool & Prince is a retailer that was founded by one of the Pendleton family members. g. I have read the same for synthetics like Patagonia's Capilene: drys fast, wears long, very comfortable, but holds a smell. Current base layers are Merino. Dec 19, 2023 · While these base layer bottoms come at a slightly higher price point considering they are crafted from a blend of merino wool, polyester, elastane, and polyamide rather than 100% merino, the The Wool Thermo (WT) mesh collection is a modified wool base layer made with Brynje’s classic 3/8″ open weave design provides 4 to 6 times the insulation value of any solid knit by weight. It’s softer, odour-resistant (hello, fewer laundry days), and worth the extra investment for many. Wool is only good as a thin anti-stink base layer for hiking or as a clean sleep/camp layer and for that reason you should only go for thin 150 weight wool. non-renewable petroleum-based production. Merino wool, however, contains natural antimicrobial properties which will keep your sweaty base layers from stinking. Anyone have experience with both? Should I run May 16, 2022 · In general, a synthetic fleece with short lengthwise fibers wicks the best, slightly edging out merino wool. Here's a quick comparison between the 200 and 260 weight material that mi Nov 12, 2021 · Which is better and why? Merino wool for base layers or something like an Under Armour type of brand. Introduction Base Layers: Synthetic and Merino Field Shirts, Pants, and Outerwear Principles of Layering Base Layer Materials Product List Legacy Synthetics Patagonia Capilene Synthetics Merino Wool Overview Smartwool Merino WoolX Merino Field Shirts Pants and Knickers Insulation Layers Jackets, Rain Gear and Hats Introduction: Legacy Synthetics Use of Legacy Synthetics Augmenting or Replacing Oct 8, 2024 · If you are comparing a cheap big box store base layer to Merino wool, of course, Merino wool is going to be better. Both have key strengths and weaknesses and excel for distinct use cases, which is good news for those trying to decide what type of base layer will best suit their needs. May 30, 2023 · The Tern Merino Wool Hoodie is an excellent sun shirt & base layer. Fleece is usually made in 200 g/m2 sizes which is the equivalent of the 200 to 400 g/m2 that wool; is made into. What works best will depend on your specific situation, including the type of activities you intend to partake in, the conditions you expect to face, and how much you’re willing Looking for some base layer advice. Synthetic thin layers are far more durable. I'm in South Carolina but going to be doing some colder weather camping/hiking this winter and, while it won't be crazy cold here (usually lows in the 20s-30s F at night) I feel I need to up my baselayer game. When something got a hole you just patched it up and moved on. try merino wool. Jun 29, 2020 · We compare merino, merino blends, alpaca, and polyester fabrics as part of a framework to help hikers choose the best base layer. Jan 16, 2015 · Interested in opinions regarding Merino Wool vs the blends. We discuss the pros and cons of each of these materials and try to help guide you towards the perfect choice of baselayer for your next outdoor adventure. From bamboo to cashmere, we explore the best base layer fabrics for staying warm, dry, and comfortable. to/35GpOZY some links are amazon Nov 13, 2024 · Merino wool isn’t the only option. Synthetic Base Layers | Merino Wool | Bamboo | Cotton ‘Base layer’ is the name given to an item of clothing worn next to the skin during sport or activity. I use Smartwool baselayers since they blend their Merino with synthetic fibers so you get the best of both worlds. 0 is the friendliest ski club ever. Oct 21, 2018 · Synthetic fibers can last four to five times longer than 100% Merino wool. If you are like me, you might not be sure which weight base layer is the right one. I got a 95% merino 5% spandex set of Alaskan Hardgear from Duluth that I love, but they don't make it anymore. For some (those who sweat a lot) they are better than merino when involved in high levels of physical exertion in cold conditions. If you sweat a lot then perhaps think about a second base layer you take with you or a sacrificial cotton t Oct 14, 2013 · 100% synth as a base layer stinks very quickly, 100% merino doesn't stink, but is too fragile. For a casual shirt, having a patched up hole in the middle of your shoulder looks terrible. Synthetic base layers High-performance polyester or polypropylene fabrics wick sweat and absorb very little water. But as a base layer in freezing temps, unless your body is a furnace, the desnisty of the merino jersey weave stops a lot of heat reaching your mid layer insulation. . What are the benefits of merino wool clothing and what to consider before buying. Polypropylene is cheap, hard wearing, a good insulator and excellent in the wet. Synthetic Merino and synthetics—typically polyester—are the main players in base layer materials. synthetics), fit, durability, cost, and more. I looked at some Merino Wool long sleeve tees and while they are nice, I can't justify spending upwards of $100 USD on one. Jan 21, 2024 · Icebreaker 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crew – This is another wool base layer that’s more similar in fit and feel to the Helly Hansen option. These types of socks are great for hiking and other outdoor activities. the great base layer debate Merino Wool vs. These fabrics aim to wick moisture and sweat away from your skin, dispersing it on the outer surface so that it evaporates. jylsrb vnxm xryhw ncrdua jvy fljwa swoia akcco msjzw yqku