Base/Mid-layers: Merino vs Outlast

[the woodster]

I have some 'Rukka' Outlast base layers. They seemed fine but like some above, didn't really feel that they regulated your body like the blurb said. I then discovered Icebreaker merino base layers about 5 years ago and haven't had anything since. I also have some Zerofit winter base layers and they are toasty warm.

 

[Wowzah]

Thanks for all the replies. I thought the Halvarssons comfort base layers would be good because it combines the properties of Outlast with the breathability etc of Merino. There aren't many experiences from others to be found on them, but the one I did find were all very positive.
Though I found a nice black friday discount on some Icebreaker base layers, so I ordered those.

 

[MaybeweeGS]

Zerofit Ultimate ??

 

[RedRick Esq.]

Zerofit Ultimate ??

The zerofit stuff is very good but in my experience does not wear well and on a cost/value/lifespan is not as good as decent merino

 

[Pale Rider]

Got two pairs of Rukka Mark bottoms and tops, I really rate them yes they get a bit smelly after a couple of days away on trips but they are dead easy to wash out and dry again before you know it!

 

[Fluffmeister]

The zerofit stuff is very good but in my experience does not wear well and on a cost/value/lifespan is not as good as decent merino

I was really impressed with my Zerofit base layers, but the Heatrub Ultimate I have has not worn so well over 18 months of use. Washed as per instructions (no tumble drying) and the inner is now really thin on the elbows / shoulders and again the interior heatrub part of the construction has sort of bobbled fairly badly making it uncomfortable. I've got a Heatrub move top and that's faired much better then the ultimate.

I think I'll head back to quality merino territory for future kit.

 

[siddo]

Isobaa from sports pursuit for me.
I have 4 of their zip tops in different weights and a pair of leggings.
Comfortable, warm and good value.

 

[Doc]

Where do you lads purchase the icebreaker gear from please ?

 

[OnHellas]

Where do you lads purchase the icebreaker gear from please ?

Try https://www.tauntonleisure.com/

They often have some reasonable discounts and have always proven reliable with actually having in stock what they’re advertising, are UK based and offer free delivery on orders over £50

 

[Orinoco]

But as someone else a while back said, hang moth killer stuff where you store your merino gear, cloth's moths have been munching through my lovely Helly Hanson merino base layers

 

[RedRick Esq.]

Where do you lads purchase the icebreaker gear from please ?

Look at Goldtop Merino

I have both Icebreaker and Gold top and cannot tell them appart other than the label ( I suspect the Gold top stuff is made by Icebreaker )

100% Merino Wool Zip Up Base Layer

100% Merino wool (230gsm) base layer Temperature regulating, moisture wicking, breathable 1/4 Zip neck design with thumbhole in cuffs for extra coverage Machine washable at 30 degrees

goldtop.co.uk

 

[casbar]

Look at Goldtop Merino

I have both Icebreaker and Gold top and cannot tell them appart other than the label ( I suspect the Gold top stuff is made by Icebreaker )

100% Merino Wool Zip Up Base Layer

100% Merino wool (230gsm) base layer Temperature regulating, moisture wicking, breathable 1/4 Zip neck design with thumbhole in cuffs for extra coverage Machine washable at 30 degrees

goldtop.co.uk

Except the Goldtop is 230 weight and Icebreaker only do a 200 and 260 weight.

 

[Doc]

Look at Goldtop Merino

I have both Icebreaker and Gold top and cannot tell them appart other than the label ( I suspect the Gold top stuff is made by Icebreaker )

100% Merino Wool Zip Up Base Layer

100% Merino wool (230gsm) base layer Temperature regulating, moisture wicking, breathable 1/4 Zip neck design with thumbhole in cuffs for extra coverage Machine washable at 30 degrees

goldtop.co.uk

Strange they don't do long John's to go with the top.

 

[Guru Gora]

Don’t fuck about

Icebreaker

 

[RedRick Esq.]

Don’t fuck about

Icebreaker

Which is my usual responsa also but the Gold top stuff is as good at half the price

 

[Arsey]

Bought this stuff for my January trip to France and it was utterly brilliant

 

[dean0n0]

UK made, been around for years, worth checking the clearance section.

Mens Thermal Base Layers

Stay comfortable and dry during any winter activity with our high performance mens thermal base layers. Great prices and quick delivery. Shop Now!

subzero.co.uk

 

[Doc]

Thanks lads

 

[GS2022]

I’ll add another vote for Halvarssons’ Warm Wool base layers. Utterly brilliant in autumn/winter.

Also, a Hideout base layer top and Hideout base layer pants are available for warmer weather. But I haven’t tried them.

 

[Rasher]

Had Outlast liners in my last 2 suits and really like them, I found they worked well over a bigger temp range than anything else I have used, I could get away with a thin base layer and not be too cool at below10c and not be too hot until beyond 20c....

...Assuming relatively still dry conditions, anything can be hot at under 20c if its really humid, and really cold at 15c if it is pissing down.

The point is I needed to layer up / down less, in Spring / Autumn they are great as I can just use a thin base layer and be OK first thing in the morning, all through the day as it warms up and then OK again in the evening, and when touring and going up / down passes with huge temp swings.

If really cold I just put a EDZ micro fleece on, and if really hot I take the liners out.

Don't think it is as good as the marketing hype (what is) but do think they are better than traditional meterials and would look for kit with Outlast in when shopping again.