Gear Review: Wilderness Technology Merino Wool Base Layers

Value Rating: 10 Durability Rating: 10 Overall Rating: 9 Location of Test: Hyalite Canyon, MT; Mount Hood; Forest Park, OR Duration of Test: Two Months Product Name: Men’s & Women’s Merino Wool Base Layer Tops & Bottoms Product Brand: Wilderness Technology Best Use: ce Climbing & Cold Ski Touring Fabric Performance: Warm and Breathable The Full Review: We’ve been running separate testing on these baselayers since the end of December. So far, they’ve held up very well in a variety of conditions. Both the men’s and women’s tops have thumb holes – a wonderful addition that not only adds warmth to your hands in cold conditions but which also keeps the sleeves in place when you’re adding layers on top of it! The thumb holes are well shaped and have appropriate reinforcement, so they won't chafe the space between your thumb and forefinger. Andy wore the top and bottom during cold ice climbing in Hyalite Canyon in early January and found them to be sufficiently warm for him during chilly belays and on cold pitches. He’s also worn them ski touring on a few occasions and, although they are a bit too warm for him to wear during high-output activities, they have a good amount of stretch that let his legs and arms move freely on both the up and the downhill. Corie, who has been recovering from an injury, has worn these baselayers on wet hikes in Forest Park and has found them to be breathable and comfortable during long days out on the trails. The seams are flat and don’t create any chafing – the worst of any athlete’s layering mistakes! She has also worn them on short ski tours and found them to be the perfect weight for her, even in deep snow. The Good: These baselayers are very warm, soft, and they fit well. The stitching is durable and smooth against your skin – an added bonus! The addition of thumb holes on the tops is a great touch! The Bad: If you run warm, they’re a bit too warm for long ski tours or for breaking trail after a big dumping of snow. The Bottom Line: These layers are made for cold conditions that don’t require a lot of high energy output. They work very well for ice climbing or for cold days riding lifts. They are soft, comfortable, and also work well as a midlayer.