As an outdoor person who hikes and skis frequently, I’ve always been a fan of merino base layers, including early Smartwool offerings – but for me, the major drawback was that in high intensity activities, 100% merino had me feeling wet and clammy – until you’d expose the base layer when changing layers – and then all that moisture would evaporate rapidly, effectively refrigerating you. Essentially, one would start out wet, and then become cold as the layer dried.
As a result, I either tolerated these circumstances, or found myself constantly layering and shedding, layering and shedding – throughout my activities. Both of these things became counterproductive, especially when Nordic racing (or trying to keep up with faster hikers!)
Enter the era of the Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino Wool Base Layer: I took it out on big hikes twice (just to be sure I was feeling what I thought I was feeling) before I said anything about it. And I’m happy to report that I am now anticipating my next hike with this product! This blend of 52% wool, 45% polyester, 2% elastane and 1% polyamide has hit it out of the park for me.
First of all, I didn’t feel clammy at all during periods of high intensity movement. The wicking properties of this blend are a vast improvement over straight merino.
Secondly, the slim fit is flattering and comfortable. It has a ribbed, drop tail hem, which I particularly like, and inserts at the elbows for better articulation and movement.
As the day warmed up, and I de-layered down to the Smartwool alone, I actually started to feel a bit stylish out there, sporting it as the only layer. Furthermore, it breathes so well that I didn’t even get overheated in the sun (even though I was wearing the black one with eggplant accents!). This is likely aided by the mesh-like inserts on the back, arms, and underarms.
Another benefit I noted is that after almost 13 hard miles on the trail on the first hike, it definitely didn’t smell like I’d gone the distance! One could get a few wearings out of it before having to wash.
Regarding washing, the manufacturer recommends gentle cycle/cold. I’ll second that – and also add that if you can hand wash it – even better. I did notice after two machine washings in a front loader (no agitator) it is starting to pill a little. I’d expect that a top loader with agitator would wreak havoc on the delicate knit, even on gentle cycle. Treat it with care and consideration and it should last well.
Available in solids and patterns on the Smartwool site in sizes XS – XL. It fits snugly (yet comfortably, in my opinion), so buy your usual size if you want a close fit; size up if you want a bit more ease.
Lisa Fine
I’m 60 and loving the outdoor life in Summit County, CO. Skiing (Nordic and backcountry) and hiking are my two greatest outdoor pursuits. However, I’m also a former ultrarunner and alumnus of the Mohican 50 Mile, North Country 50 Mile, and Run Woodstock 50 Mile races, as well as a handful of 50K pursuits. Prior to my trailrunning days, I was a road marathoner and two-time participant in the Mt. Washington Road Race.
Mt. Washington and the Presidential Range fueled my love for the mountains and trails. I spent a lot of time honing my skills in the Mt. Washington environs in the late 1980s. In the early 1990s, I added single-handed ocean sailing to my resume.
Discovering the Colorado mountains started in 1988, with my first 14ers (Longs Peak, Mt Elbert, and Quandary Mtn). Once I moved here, the allure of the Gore Range became my focus. As far as my local endeavors go, “I wonder what’s over that ridge?” or “I wonder if I can get there from here?” resonate in my mind as I explore the lesser-traveled areas.
In my pursuit of new (to me) terrain and achievements, my gear is a critical factor in my comfort, success, and safety. At age 60, I’m still trying to be efficient (read: fast and light) while maintaining some creature comforts. Striking that balance requires planning and critical evaluation of the utility of every item I put in my pack.
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