merino/loose fitting base layers VS under armour/tight fitting base layers

[squeekieslayer]

Hey guys, I have always used under armour type, tight fitting base layers from sporting goods companies. They seem to work well, I use them skiing and such, and they have been OK for hunting.

That said, I hate how uncomfortable they are (tight and constricting) and they seem to stink like chit after only a short period of time.

I am looking at the merino base layers or similar base layers by companies like kuiu/sitka/first lite etc. and was wondering how they compared.

Thanks guys

Joe

 

[ScottP]

In my experience, there is no comparison. On multi-day trips my synthetic stuff reeks, and merino hardly has any odor. I'm not taking any base layers that aren't made from merino any more. all the companies you list make good stuff. Smartwool and core4 can be had discounted sometimes.

there are some kuiu pieces on the classifieds... maybe they are your size.

 

[aron]

I personally hate UA and that tight fitting shit. Never found the material comfortable and the shirts always seem to climb up when you raise your arms and what not. Merino ismore comfortable and by far much better in regards to the stink factor over synthetic. I have both First Lite and Kuiu and thumbs up goes to the First Lite merino.

 

[Jordan Budd]

I think if your hustling all the time and not doing too much sitting UA is good. I wear it on the walk in if its cold. Then switch to my first lite when I'm hunting. Keeps odor down and is warm and comfortable.

 

[gelton]

I am in the op's position. Those of us who geared up on base layers 3-5 years ago before merino made the big push in hunting are all behind the times. Back when i bought the synthetics they were the best since sliced bread. I have a lot of it. Also have tons of warm but HEAVY outerwear designed for stand hunting not backpack. I have decided to replace it first and work backwards. The synthetics will be replaced last but from everything I see and read merino is definitely the way to go.

 

[TheRambler]

I like the UA loose stuff , not sure when it started coming out but I bought a few shirts last year on clearance. I really like en. I prefer wool, but at $7 a pop on clearance they can't be beat.

 

[rodney482]

IMO.. UA has no business in the back country..not for base layers anyway.