First Lite wool all the way. What I've learned - I shouldn't wear briefs because when the thighs get sweaty, the inner thighs rub together or rub against the pant fabric and I start to get chauffing. Mostly on longer hikes. Once you're rubbed raw there's no real recovering from it. Can be quite painful. Thus, I wear the form fitting boxers or whatever you call them. They look like cycling shorts, going down the thigh with a tight fit. I never got chauffing again once I switched.
As for fabric, I like synthetics (Exofficio) for day hikes where I shower at the end of the day. They are super durable, last for years and dry out quickly. If doing a multi day backpack trip I go wool. The synthetics start to give me a rash down there after the first day, plus like all synthetics they stink more. After a few days, they stink a lot! Where wool won't stink at all. I've hunted a full week and been amazed by the fact they don't stink at all. Very comfortable. The wool isn't as durable, runs a touch warmer than synthetic and takes a little longer to dry, but those are all marginal differences. The important thing is they don't stink, give me rashes or chauffing.
Fist Lites are nice but a little longer than they need to be. I wouldn't bother with Kuiu synthetics, but would try a wool one if they ever come out with one.
? Do you wear them at all with a Merino base layer?
