Base layers.....

[wamp]

all of this talk about layering has me searching for a good set up.... i was wondering if anyone on here uses the Wickers or Terrama base layers from Seirra Tradingpost, or the polar max stuff from cabelas.... i am on somewhat of a budget and want to go cheaper but not buy junk that wont work... any input will be great, thanks!

one more question, on your elk trips how long do you wear a base layer before you put on a fresh set....

[snake]

Check out the base layers from core 4. They are affordable and everybody has said great things about them. http://core4element.com/

[pointysticks]

polar max? synthetics right? if so, i have the equivalent from bass pro.

the stuff works and works well. i have a light layer and a slightly heavier layer. together, with a camo shirt and my light jacket..i can hike all day in any weather i am willing to get out in. 0 degrees and hiking is easily doable. downside, my stuff would reek after a few days.

i have since switched over to merino wool.

[ferris bugler]

My problem with synthetics has always been the way they carry smell. Even after you was them It seems to come back more quickly each time. Check out backcountry.com and search their sales for Merino stuff. You'll be way happier. I realize that isn't specific to your question but I think in the long run it will save you some cash.

[Huntography]

Agree With Ferris Bugler. Any merino base layer is better than a synthetic. That's just from my personal experience.

Btw, Is Ferris Bugler the best handle or what?

Rudy

[Indian Summer]

Since polyester became so popular there are lots of companies making less expensive products with it. Brands like Sitka are a bit more comfortable because there is a higher thread count and they incorporate spandex into their clothes. Nothing wrong with Duofold and others.

That said yes... polyester clothes like Under Armour dry nice & fast but just plain stink! I still have some and might get two days out of it. Day 2 I can barely stand myself. I've also gone to merino wool. 2 bottoms and 2 or 3 tops will get me through 7 to 10 days.

[pointysticks]

i should buy my brother some merino wool. i suffer when he stinks.

[wamp]

thanks for the input guys, just trying to figure this elk hunting stuff out to make the most of my trip.

One more thing, is cotton really that bad?

[wamp]

would you seasoned hunters recomend midweight or lightweight for mid september elk?

[sreekers]

Lightweight for sure.

[ferris bugler]

Lightweight in layers is way better than mid-weight and cotton can be that bad, but if you know the weather is going to be nice it's the most comfortable thing out there for me.

[Huntography]

I will not wear any base layer that is not merino wool.

Rudy

[WapitiTalk1]

I have several RO base layers that are synthetic. They wick moisture, dry very easy and don't seem to smell bad even after wearing them for multiple days. Maybe I'm the exception but I like them. RJ

[Indian Summer]

Cotton doesn't dry and wicks heat away from your body. In perfect conditions I guess it doesn't matter a whole lot but if you end up having a long day you can really freeze your butt off in cotton. If you were in an emergency situation it would be more prone to causing hypothermia than materials that don't retain moisture.

Light weight for sure.

[wamp]

thanks guys!

[WindedBowhunter]

For me I prefer merino wool base layers, especially in backcountry trips.

Merino wool magically keeps you cool when the temps are warm and keeps you warm when the temps are cool!

It also reduces your "stank", weight and real estate in your pack!

You should always wear your base layers, no matter what the temps are. Even if it is hot where the base layers with nothing on top of them.

I prefer the First Lite garments. I would recommend a camo pattern for the top garment, then a solid color for the bottoms, this will save you a few bucks.