Fishnet base layers. They work, and you want them.

[fwafwow]

Got it ... I hadn't realised you were referencing yourself!

But in all seriousness ... no idea. I'm personally guessing I'd want more padding, though. And wonder if that kind of design might create friction points. Let us know if you find out more!

(And if you want to go down the rabbit hole on something else, I'm waay in the weeds at the moment on lightweight cooking options: https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/ul-fuel-efficient-cook-system.211835/page-15#post-3997634 ... enjoy!)

I thought about the padding too, and then thought that the fishnet socks might not be completely fishnet and could have solid panels where there would be friction. I am guessing the idea doesn't make sense.

 

[jbwright]

I have a handful of Brynje products, including some Super Thermo Mesh and the Arctic Zip Polo (one garment with a mesh under layer and a merino blend outer). If your ego can handle it, the mesh bottoms are tops. Dry quicker than anything I’ve used and prevent some of the swass I get with most thermal bottoms when pushing hard. Don’t need to fool with zippered thermal bottoms because they’re so effective at providing warmth while staying breathable and they dry so fast. Temperature regulation is where they shine.

If I’m staying light as possible and need the fastest drying capabilities, I’ll go with the Super Thermo set as a base layer. The combo Arctic top is great if you need the boost of extra warmth, stink is a concern, you’re around fire and don’t want to fret over sparks as much as synthetics, and you don’t want prying eyes to question your life choices but you still want the mesh advantage. I really enjoy using the Arctic for my winter camping/fishing trips where pulk sleds and hot tents are the norm.

The way the mesh is structured and the thinness of the wool makes for a quick drying, warm system for a wool garment. One of the biggest advantages is it eliminates another layer you have to fidget with to try to line up comfortably. You have the advantages of the mesh and the soft hand feel of the wool. The Arctic is a nice casual wear piece too. Pair the Arctic with an Ullfrotté (now Woolpower) 400 Zip and you can be pretty darn cozy. I don’t always want to look like sporty guy.

All the Brynje tops I’ve used have generous lengths, which provide warm thigh and rear coverage.

Arctic Wool baselayer with mesh - Brynje of Norway

Arctic Double is our innovative and award-winning baselayer collection for extremely cold temperatures. The dual-layer construction with a Super Thermo mesh interior and a soft merino wool exterior is our warmest baselayer, with an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio. Arctic Double is suitable for...

www.brynje.no

How does sizing run on the Brynje? I'm 6' 175 so leaning to the Medium but generally push to L to get the extra sleeve length.

Also wonder how the two-layer performs and for those that have a pure poly versus a poly inner and wool/poly second layer work out. I'm specifically referencing the "two layer" from Brynje and Aclima. It seems pretty consistent across both brands that this offering (not the single layer fish net) has either a 100% poly or 80/20 merino/poly inner layer and some variation of an outer layer. For example, this one from Brynje has 80/20 on the first and second layer.

May be splitting hairs but awanted to see for those that have it if you have a leaning one way or another.

 

[THLR]

I'd say a little on the small size. I'm a slim XL (Arcteryx sizing) or XL T (Sitka sizing) and my XL Brynje is a tad tight. I sent one to @Antares and I believe his sizing was a bit tight too.

I'm not really a fan of the poly in cold weather, but early autumn (approaching freezing) they work fine. I use them mostly for training (used often, washed often) and save my less wear resistant merino for actual backcountry//hunting.

For winter I've used Devold Expedition (2 layer) series a lot, the 10% polyamid adds a noticable difference in wear resistance.

For allround hunting I have a crewneck woolnet baselayer (not really that picky about brand, currently it's Aclima) and over that I wear a Devold Woolmesh (which is basically a woolnet with smaller holes). I find that this gives me a bit more control when it comes to removing sweat/humidity as it tends to lie in the woolmesh and not the inner woolnet.

With the double layer tops it's either on or off; no fine tuning. Aclima WoolNet Hybrid seems like an interesting product if you want to stay with one layer.

Above this I wear a running//sun hoodie as it adds zero thermal properties but gives me the option of protecting the head from sun or windchill.

Above the woolnet I wear a windstopper (currently the Sitka Mountain Evo) and above that I'll put on a breathable insulation, currently Arcteryx Atom//Proton.

If it's colder (but not deep winter) I wear one of those active modern breathable insulations under the windstopper, currently an Arcterx something with a octa weave

 

[Antares]

I'd say a little on the small size. I'm a slim XL (Arcteryx sizing) or XL T (Sitka sizing) and my XL Brynje is a tad tight. I sent one to @Antares and I believe his sizing was a bit tight too.

I'm not really a fan of the poly in cold weather, but early autumn (approaching freezing) they work fine. I use them mostly for training (used often, washed often) and save my less wear resistant merino for actual backcountry//hunting.

For winter I've used Devold Expedition (2 layer) series a lot, the 10% polyamid adds a noticable difference in wear resistance.

For allround hunting I have a crewneck woolnet baselayer (not really that picky about brand, currently it's Aclima) and over that I wear a Devold Woolmesh (which is basically a woolnet with smaller holes). I find that this gives me a bit more control when it comes to removing sweat/humidity as it tends to lie in the woolmesh and not the inner woolnet.

With the double layer tops it's either on or off; no fine tuning. Aclima WoolNet Hybrid seems like an interesting product if you want to stay with one layer.

Above this I wear a running//sun hoodie as it adds zero thermal properties but gives me the option of protecting the head from sun or windchill.

Above the woolnet I wear a windstopper (currently the Sitka Mountain Evo) and above that I'll put on a breathable insulation, currently Arcteryx Atom//Proton.

If it's colder (but not deep winter) I wear one of those active modern breathable insulations under the windstopper, currently an Arcterx something with a octa weave

Correct, and thanks again for sending that Thomas. I think you sent a size L; I generally wear L base layers, but it was too tight and I gave it to a friend. I replaced it with an XL Brynje top and that's been awesome. I've worn it all season and I'm definitely a fan of fishnets now. For every hunt this year I wore my Brynje fishnet next to skin, a merino t-shirt over that, and a Dynafit Free Alpha Direct jacket over that. Great layering system for my climate. I'm 6'2" 195 lbs for reference.

 

[lak2004]

Correct, and thanks again for sending that Thomas. I think you sent a size L; I generally wear L base layers, but it was too tight and I gave it to a friend. I replaced it with an XL Brynje top and that's been awesome. I've worn it all season and I'm definitely a fan of fishnets now. For every hunt this year I wore my Brynje fishnet next to skin, a merino t-shirt over that, and a Dynafit Free Alpha Direct jacket over that. Great layering system for my climate. I'm 6'2" 195 lbs for reference.

How's that dynafit shell? Seems to be great for the money over baselayers.

 

[Antares]

How's that dynafit shell? Seems to be great for the money over baselayers.

I have an XL and I definitely wouldn't want it any smaller. Sleeves are a little short for me, but that's a problem I have with most brands. So, it could fit me a little better, but overall I would certainly buy it again, it has worked very well for me. It's a bit fragile feeling for some of the heavy bushwhacking I do, so I try to be a little careful with it.

I am curious to get a Sitka Ambient hoodie and compare the two.

 

[jbwright]

Correct, and thanks again for sending that Thomas. I think you sent a size L; I generally wear L base layers, but it was too tight and I gave it to a friend. I replaced it with an XL Brynje top and that's been awesome. I've worn it all season and I'm definitely a fan of fishnets now. For every hunt this year I wore my Brynje fishnet next to skin, a merino t-shirt over that, and a Dynafit Free Alpha Direct jacket over that. Great layering system for my climate. I'm 6'2" 195 lbs for reference.

Appreciate the replies. I'm in between sizes according to the chart and they recommended to size down. 50/50 the Medium I ordered is going back for a L. TBD but thanks guys. I went with the Brynje tactical arctic because it's 80/20 inner and outer liner (merino/poly). We'll see. I wanted to pick up the Arctic Zip Polo Shirt (100 poly interior and 80/20 second layer) but I want to see how the first fits before ordering more.

Here's the reply I received from Brynje of Norway when asking about size:
"If you are in between size M and L I would recommend size M. This is due to those products being normal in size and very flexible and stretchy. They do also widen out a bit when in use. On top of this all mesh is supposed to sit close to your skin and should not be too loose. If the mesh sits to loosely the effect will be diminished. For example I use both size S and M in other brands, but I use size S in our clothes!"

 

[THLR]

I am curious to get a Sitka Ambient hoodie and compare the two.

That's where I'd put my own money; sadly Sitka hasn't sorted their international distribution so I'm relegated to "free shipping" options on Amazon.

I bought a Kuiu Superdown Light for that role, but it's been horrible and essentially a piece of textile trash (no way to arrest heatloss, hood doesn't stay on.

My current piece was Arcteryx Proton LT crewneck. Works well with fishnets, I'd offer the opinion that the weave + surface fabric does the job of a twice as heavy open-weave wool sweater. But no protection of neck or head, and not sure how it performs wet.



This stuff in a hoodie version should be great between woolnet/windbreaker or above the windbreaker (provided the hood is correctly cut)

I used the Proton LT in Kyrgystan, but it hasn't made the cut to the "backcountry approved" rack as it needs to be reinforced with a neck gaiter/hat.

This is my 3-season baselayer box. The 4th season (winter) is so specialized it's packed separately.

 

[Antares]

That's where I'd put my own money; sadly Sitka hasn't sorted their international distribution so I'm relegated to "free shipping" options on Amazon.

I bought a Kuiu Superdown Light for that role, but it's been horrible and essentially a piece of textile trash (no way to arrest heatloss, hood doesn't stay on.

My current piece was Arcteryx Proton LT crewneck. Works well with fishnets, I'd offer the opinion that the weave + surface fabric does the job of a twice as heavy open-weave wool sweater. But no protection of neck or head, and not sure how it performs wet.
View attachment 828551

View attachment 828552
This stuff in a hoodie version should be great between woolnet/windbreaker or above the windbreaker (provided the hood is correctly cut)

I used the Proton LT in Kyrgystan, but it hasn't made the cut to the "backcountry approved" rack as it needs to be reinforced with a neck gaiter/hat.
View attachment 828553
This is my 3-season baselayer box. The 4th season (winter) is so specialized it's packed separately.
View attachment 828554

I agree. I sweat A TON and the combo of fishnet base layers and an Alpha Direct midlayer has been a gamechanger for me as far as managing moisture. @THLR, shoot me a PM if you want, I'm happy to ship you Sitka stuff or anything else that won't ship to you.

 

[Dobermann]

Above the woolnet I wear a windstopper (currently the Sitka Mountain Evo) and above that I'll put on a breathable insulation, currently Arcteryx Atom//Proton.

Thomas - what are your thoughts on the Sitka Mountain Evo?

 

[THLR]

Sitka Mountain Evo had been almost spot on for what I do.


My only complaint is that the hood is far too open on the forehead, and that is at times downright uncomfortable/painful.

But at least the hood stays on in wind, unlike my Kuiu. And the hood is sewn on seperate from the collar, which in my opinion is the correct way to do is as you can use hood/collar independently - meaning you can take the hiod on/off without needing to open the zipper and expose the neck. Especially important on raingear as this will eventually draw humidity down onto your collarbones/chest.


Only used it one season, but it has become favorite. Quiet fabric, a little pilling along the backpack contact points but within the norm.

If you don't use a backpack, a full windstopper jacket is possibly better.

I had the Sitka Flash (pullover windstopper) but that jacket was poorly designed. Didn't protect the waist, didn't segregate hood/collar and the chest zipper was too short so you were constantly walking with a bubble of wet air underneath the jacket. I ended up simply binning that jacket.

The Mountain Evo has none of these issues and layers just fine. Overall very happy with the purchase.

 

[Dobermann]

The latest Exo podcast mentioned that this company make merino fishnets for US military contracts, and sometimes do overruns, which they sell on their website: https://dfndusa.com/

I didn't catch how frequently this occurs. Steve said they looked to be good quality, and possibly thicker than Brynje.

Anyone tried them?

 

[jonpall]

The latest Exo podcast mentioned that this company make merino fishnets for US military contracts, and sometimes do overruns, which they sell on their website: https://dfndusa.com/

I didn't catch how frequently this occurs. Steve said they looked to be good quality, and possibly thicker than Brynje.

Anyone tried them?

Seems like they mentioned to check the website every few months?

 

[jbwright]

Appreciate the replies. I'm in between sizes according to the chart and they recommended to size down. 50/50 the Medium I ordered is going back for a L. TBD but thanks guys. I went with the Brynje tactical arctic because it's 80/20 inner and outer liner (merino/poly). We'll see. I wanted to pick up the Arctic Zip Polo Shirt (100 poly interior and 80/20 second layer) but I want to see how the first fits before ordering more.

Here's the reply I received from Brynje of Norway when asking about size:
"If you are in between size M and L I would recommend size M. This is due to those products being normal in size and very flexible and stretchy. They do also widen out a bit when in use. On top of this all mesh is supposed to sit close to your skin and should not be too loose. If the mesh sits to loosely the effect will be diminished. For example I use both size S and M in other brands, but I use size S in our clothes!"

Medium worked out fine w/Brynje. The Tactical arctic is thicker than I expected, in a good way. The 80/20 interior is comfortable. Now time to put the pack on and get some miles on it.
Also no idea how they did this but I ordered last Thursday at 5PM EST and it was delivered last night (Monday) by 7PM EST. How they ship from Norway in 4 days is impressive. They need to consult with the USPS on how to do their jobs efficiently.

 

[THLR]

Here's a film. I believe he arrives at 20% more insulation (or rather, 20% less power spent to maintain temperature) and superior ventilation after measuring it on a mannequin in a freezer.

 

[fwafwow]

Here's a film. I believe he arrives at 20% more insulation and superior ventilation after measuring it on a mannequin in a freezer.

Thanks for this. I wore my Aclima mesh for duck hunting. I can't help but thinking how it would be great if more layers built in pit zips and other ways of shedding moisture without having to remove the layer. My (admittedly old) duck hunting coat is definitely not made for that.

 

[Dobermann]

Here's a film. I believe he arrives at 20% more insulation and superior ventilation after measuring it on a mannequin in a freezer.

Hooray for athletic nerds!

Fascinating to see that the mesh layer weighed exactly the same at the end of a sweaty hike as at the beginning.

However, I did catch that he was using a polyester mesh base layer and standard base layer ... would be good to see a comparison between merino versions of each.

 

[isleofGough]

My experience with Brynje base layers is their fishnet (both polypropylene and arctic double layer ones) are far warmer than any other base layer I've used. Conduction heat lass to water is bad and cold skin rarely dries layers. Fishnets work.

 

[BoilerBowHunter]

Can fishnets make sense for static hunting like whitetail stand hunting? Or are they really just for active hunting styles?

 

[isleofGough]

They work well when not exercising too. When I was a teenager, I was given some cotton fishnet thermal underwear. That was both uncomfortable and cold. I think for the physics to work, it has to be a non absorbent fabric.