Base layers

Dustin B.

FNG
Joined
Apr 5, 2023
Messages
69
I'm looking for a new base layer bottom. I want something that works well at temperature regulation. I don't really care if it's wool or synthetic. I'm currently looking at the forloh deep space bottoms and the kuiu 160 merino bottoms. Any recommendations?
 

Samson7x

WKR
Joined
Oct 29, 2019
Messages
554
I like zip off bottoms and prefer the boot cut to ride just above my sock. That led me to sitka 330 and I have no complaints with them.
 

NealS02

FNG
Joined
Dec 22, 2022
Messages
56
I don’t buy a ton of First Lite gear, but love their merino base layers. I have the Wick with zip off sides. I have worn those things for years and they look brand new. Great performance in the field even with long hikes as they are not overly warm and do handle moisture well.
 

rookieforever33

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
Aug 23, 2024
Messages
126
Synthetic against my skin feels can feel cold in the winter. I think they work better in the summer, and merino for the colder months. My zip off 3/4 length are my go to.
 

Bump79

WKR
Joined
Oct 5, 2020
Messages
1,310
Didn't think about that. Has anyone here tried the first lite kiln?
Personally I haven't tried them. I'd check out these Kuiu ones, they are a merino poly blend. They don't make them anymore but the Kuiu 97 fleece bottoms are awesome. Hopefully they bring it back.

I'm not really a heavy weight merino fan. Especially in a bottom as I don't really feel that you get the benefit of the weight. Just my .02

 

NealS02

FNG
Joined
Dec 22, 2022
Messages
56
I have the Kiln and Furnace in addition to the Wick. They are both great and I absolutely recommend them. Both will keep you warm in cold conditions when you are glassing or in a treestand, but they are a too heavy for me if I am going to be moving a bunch. Often I will move in the Wick, unzip the sides and put on either of the heavier options without having to take off my boots, and then start glassing.
 

BlaserF3

FNG
Joined
Jul 29, 2024
Messages
9
Didn't think about that. Has anyone here tried the first lite kiln?
I have the Kiln hoodie, its pretty light. If its 40F and over I rock the Kiln only, hike to my location then throw on a light insulation layer if needed. 40F and under Ill throw the furnace on alone and hike to my spot and throw on an insulation layer. Both fit me really well, XXL muscular, and really struggle to find proper fits. I have had them both for about 3 years now, the furnace seems to have held out better (kiln is starting to show some very light pilling), but they are both in good shape. I lived in the furnace for a week straight for a moose hunt in Northern Ontario and it just did not smell. Both are quality top notch pieces IMO.
 
OP
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Dustin B.

FNG
Joined
Apr 5, 2023
Messages
69
I have the Kiln hoodie, its pretty light. If its 40F and over I rock the Kiln only, hike to my location then throw on a light insulation layer if needed. 40F and under Ill throw the furnace on alone and hike to my spot and throw on an insulation layer. Both fit me really well, XXL muscular, and really struggle to find proper fits. I have had them both for about 3 years now, the furnace seems to have held out better (kiln is starting to show some very light pilling), but they are both in good shape. I lived in the furnace for a week straight for a moose hunt in Northern Ontario and it just did not smell. Both are quality top notch pieces IMO.
Thanks for the info! I too struggle to find a good fit, although my situation is almost the exact opposite haha! I'm about 6' and weigh around 154lbs. I've had issues with some base layers that bunch up because they are too loose. First lite kiln is on sale right now so I'm really considering them.
 
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