If you like a heavyweight merino layer, don't forget to hit the local thrift store. They'll have a bunch of those thin 100% merino checkered v-neck bastards for cheeeeeap. Great for wet work and when you don't want to f up a $100 shirt.
In the times of C1Niner don't forget to check out base layers with built in face masks. That way you can add in the amount your wife has spent on cute masks when justifying your purchase.Are there any quality merino base layers out there that are not the "big" name brands that still work just as well but aren't as expensive ?