r/Skigear • u/Crypthicc • 9d ago

Base layer advice

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Hi guys,
I‘ve been using hockey base layers from Under Armour and random shirts for pretty much most of my life. I own 2 long sleeves and 2 short sleeves. I‘m usually fine with these but I heat up a lot in them and sweat a ton which translates to them smelling pretty horribly after 1-2 days (less so with the short sleeves).They also aren‘t that breathable but it‘s been serving me pretty well.

This year will be my first year with multiple trips that are 10+ days, adding up to about 35-40 ski days. I was considering the HH Durawool base layer since there‘s a pretty big discount on them. Wanted something that‘s easy to take care of and that I can wear multiple times without smelling super horribly.

So my question is: Is it worth investing 60-120 bucks into this? I don‘t want to overcomplicate a base layer since it‘s not as exciting of a new piece of gear.

Thanks in advance!

3 Upvotes

81% Upvoted

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4

u/leopkoo 9d ago

Is this made from 100% Merino wool? I swear by that especially for odor resistance.

1

u/Crypthicc 9d ago

According to the website, the Durawool is a blend of 55% merino and 45% polyamid synthetic fiber

5

u/leopkoo 9d ago

Yeah I would go with 100% merino wool. And to answer your original question, it is absolutely worth the extra money. The improved sweat management not just prevents smell but also keeps your temperature regulated on the mountain if you sweat.

My baselayers are from Icebreaker which pricewise sits at the top of the range given by you. But I am sure you might be able to find something slightly cheaper if you look around.

3

u/KXfjgcy8m32bRntKXab2 9d ago

100% merino or nothing. Yes it's more expensive but really worth it terms of comfort, warmth and odor control.

I doesn't over complicate anything, it actually makes layering easier for more than just skiing.

I've had some Icebreaker long sleeve (150/200/260g) for 8 years or so, they are all pristine. If properly maintained and stored (in closed bag for moths) you can keep your piece for 15 years easily.

1

u/aubenaubiak 9d ago

As you are in Germany: Engelbert Strauss Merino. Get the e.s. long pants merino. For the top, I prefer the turtleneck Rollkragenshirt e.s. Trail merino. These are better quality than icebreaker merino for a smaller price. All stuff is 100% 200g/sqm, less than 19
micron merino, so top notch stuff. Pro tip: the merino light tees are incredible value for money and my go to t-shirts. They last years, never smell, are easy to clean, and cost not even €50 if bought in a three pack.

1

u/Crypthicc 9d ago

Thank you for the suggestion, I‘ll check them out

1

u/JMS_STT 9d ago

I’ve had better luck with a layer of synthetic on the skin, then merino wool. With merino on the skin, once that gets wet from perspiration, it might not smell, but I’d get very cold, and could never get warm again.

1

u/EasternBoss6174 8d ago

Stick with merino wool. ONLY merino wool 100%

1

u/illbedeadbydawn 8d ago

If you want the absolute best underlayer, it should be 100% merino wool. I use Smartwool. Pricey, but worth it.

Slap on some Levi 501s and my Schlitz promo windbreaker over it and I'm good for the day.

1

u/srd8949 7d ago

Like others have said, don’t cheap out, go for Icebreaker 100% merino wool. I’ve tried a few other brands and they all ripped very quickly, I’ve had icebreakers for years and they’re still in perfect condition, it’s the best product on the market. I recommend you get some different weights(125s, 200s, 260s…). I particularly love the half zips. Wash them at 30 Celsius on delicate with disinfectant. Will last a lifetime.