How to Choose Base Layers

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A great base layer for warm or cold weather, the men's Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino quarter-zip top features lightweight, soft merino wool with a nylon core for increased durability.
Shop newer versionImported.
View the Smartwool Classic All Season Product LineView all Smartwool Men's Base Layer Tops| Best Use | Multisport |
|---|---|
| Shirt Type | Partial-zip |
| Fabric | 87% merino wool/13% nylon |
| Moisture Wicking | Yes |
| Underwear Weight | Lightweight |
| Sleeve Length | Long Sleeve |
| Gender | Men's |
| S | M | L | XL | XXL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest | 36 - 38 | 39 - 41 | 42 - 44 | 45 - 48 | 49 - 51 |
| Sleeve Length | 31 - 32 | 32 - 33 | 33 - 34 | 34 - 35 | 35 - 36 |
| Waist | 29 - 31 | 32 - 34 | 34 - 37 | 38 - 40 | 41 - 44 |
| Hip | 36 - 38 | 39 - 41 | 42 - 44 | 45 - 48 | 49 - 51 |
| Inseam | 30 - 31 | 31 - 32 | 32 - 33 | 33 - 34 | 34 - 35 |
Measurements are stated in inches.
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Overall the material and quality seems great but the photos are misleading on the collar design. My biggest issue was that the brightly striped band inside the collar is much more visible than the photos indicate. The collar is taller and floppier than photos, so unless zipped all the way up it has to lay flat and expose the bright stripes. Not necessarily a bad look for outdoors, etc. But I ordered these also for casual work pullovers and the stripes are too distinctive to be wearing over and over.
I am 6'1 and 190 lb In a medium fit perfect. The smart will switch shirt is warm, breathable and very comfortable, even directly on my skin. I just love it
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Great concept. I wish I liked it better. Merino wool is a little scratchy. The inside of the zipper head is cold against my skin. I can't wear this without a base layer and it's supposed to be a base layer. Not very warm - seems like the air goes right through it even when there is no breeze, but I did want something breathable so maybe I need a thicker garment. I'm 5'11", bought medium, I have long arms and the sleeve length is good. It was very helpful seeing what it looked like on the male model and to know his dimensions.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This long sleeve tee shirt has become my go to undershirt during cool/cold days when wearing long sleeve shirts. I also wear it alone when lounging around the house or if taking a walk or hike. The zip allows me to dump heat quickly if exercising. The fit is great and the wool just feels great against my skin. I'm 5'11" and 200 lbs. I wish they were cheaper as I'd own more of them.
Have the 2022 version, and have not tried the new version for 2023-24. This is very warm while being thin, and so far seems to be a lot more duarable that one might expect. Worn backpacking in 50°F weather, kept me warm and sweat-free moving at a brisk pace. I wear over a Vuori t-shirt as the material is a little bit rough on certain areas and I'm sensitive to the zipper.
I have two of these same tops that are a few years old now and they wear like iron and are soft and comfortable. However, this top seems to be made of a thinner, yet tighter weaved material and I doubt it will be as durable as the other two. That being said, the blue color is beautiful and the fit and construction are admirable.
Glad I purchased on sale. Bought the Large black for my husband. Fits snug, but not tight. Hope it holds up well as his old wool 1/4 zip has so many holes in, I cant even fold it any longer. It is also thicker than his old wool 1/4 zip, so I hope he can use it for mtn biking, hiking, skiing.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I ended up returning this item because I couldn't wear it. I have plenty of 100% Merino wool clothing items but this one has a small percentage of Nylon. The small amount of nylon made this feel scratchy/prickly. I liked the style though and would by a similar item but 100% merino wool.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This is a paper thin wool base layer. The point of a base layer for me is warmth and I find my cotton base layer is substantially warmer than this product. I'm spending the extra money on wool thinking it is going to be even warmer than my affordable cotton base layer. They are nice looking and look like a quality product except the fabric is so thin you can see through it. I would not buy this product again. I may try one of there winter weight wool fabrics but after this experience, I have concerns even this one won't be thick enough to provide the warmth over and above your average cotton base layer. I was disappointed with the product and will be returning them. Thankfully the company does provide a postage paid return label. Seems like a good company, I'm only disappointed in the thickness of the product. Perhaps this product should be called ultra light weight summer base layer. Your probably asking....what is the point of a summer base layer? Exactly, I have no idea and this product seems to have no point.
OK, I'm a reptile. Cold blooded. I need a warmer base layer, so going back to Smart Wool 250. This would be a great product for moderately cool weather. Also depends on the individual and whether you are wearing it while active or just hanging out.