How to Choose Base Layers

For everything from sleeping to sweating on the trail, the ultrafine merino wool of the women's REI Co-op Merino 185 long-sleeve half-zip base layer is ideal. It's soft, breathable and odor resistant.
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View the REI Co-op Merino 185 Product LineView all REI Co-op Women's Base Layer TopsBest Use | Multisport |
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Shirt Type | Partial-zip |
Fabric | Merino wool |
Sun-Protective Fabric | Yes |
UPF Rating | 30 |
Moisture Wicking | Yes |
Quick Drying | Yes |
Underwear Weight | Lightweight |
Sleeve Length | Long Sleeve |
Gender | Women's |
Sustainability | Fair Trade Certified™ factory From a Climate Label Certified brand |
XXS | XS | S | M | L | XL | 1X | 2X | 3X | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18W | 20W | 22W | 24W | 26W | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Numerical Size | 00 | 0-2 | 4-6 | 8-10 | 12-14 | 16 | 18 | 20-22 | 24-26 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 22 | 24 | 26 |
Bust | 31 | 32-33 | 34-35 | 36-37 | 38.5-40 | 41-42.5 | 43-45 | 47-49 | 51-53 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38.5 | 40 | 42.5 | 45 | 47 | 49 | 51 | 53 |
Sleeve Length | 29.5 | 30 | 30.5 | 31 | 31.5 | 32 | 32.5 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 30 | 30 | 30.5 | 30.5 | 31 | 31 | 31.5 | 31.5 | 32 | 32.5 | 33.5 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 34.5 |
Waist | 24.5 | 25.5-26.5 | 27.5-28.5 | 29.5-30.5 | 32-33.5 | 34.5-36.5 | 37.5-39.5 | 40.5-42.5 | 44.5-46.5 | 25.5 | 26.5 | 27.5 | 28.5 | 29.5 | 30.5 | 32 | 33.5 | 36 | 38.5 | 40.5 | 42.5 | 44.5 | 46.5 |
Hip | 34 | 35-36 | 37-38 | 39-40 | 41.5-43 | 44-46 | 47-49 | 50-52 | 54-56 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38 | 39 | 40 | 41.5 | 43 | 45.5 | 48 | 50 | 52 | 54 | 56 |
Inseam | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 |
Measurements are stated in inches unless otherwise indicated. Size chart values represent body measurements, not garment measurements. Some women's pants are available in petite and tall sizes. Typically petite sizes fit women 4'11" to 5'3". Regular sizes fit women 5'4" to 5'8". Tall sizes fit women 5'9" to 5'11".
PETITE: Generally, as compared to regular sizes, petite sizes are 2.5 inches shorter in inseam, 1 inch shorter in body length, 1.25 inches shorter in sleeve length and Âľ inch shorter in total rise.
TALL: tall sizes are 3 inches longer in inseam, 2 inches longer in body length, 2.5 inches longer in sleeve length and 1.25 inches longer in total rise.
Capri or cropped pants have an intentionally shorter inseam—reference the technical specs instead of this chart.
Inseam is measured to the floor.
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.
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The zip/funnel neck isn't quite my style, but I want to wear this all the time so I just roll with it, knowing it doesn't quite match the rest of my outfit. Cozy layer, not too hot, not too cold. Even if I have a sweaty day, it airs out beautifully. I have the crew neck of the same 185 line and the neck is uncomfortable. I wish I had sent it back a year ago and gotten this. I will probably buy another one soon.
I bought this a few months ago but it finally got cold enough here to wear it. But there is a hole in the sleeve. I washed it according to directions and it did not snag it on anything.
I got this to wear for late season backpacking in Minnesota and I have been so happy with it. The fit is so much nicer than my other Merino shirt (SmartWool) which is has a nice feel but too short in the waist and this one has such a perfect fit. It even looks good.
I've worn this as a shirt, under another shirt, and as pajamas. It's very comfortable and not itchy at all.
This is also not usually my style — specifically the collar— but it is so comfy and the fit is excellent. I don’t love the feel of the zipper, but I do love the flexibility.
So soft and warm! Great fit, comfortable, and just the right bit of extra warmth for a cold Maine winter!
Bought two of these shirts, washed and wore each once and they both developed small holes in the front and back. Took to REI store for return (over 1 year after purchase) and was denied a return for the amount I paid, only offered about 15% trade-in value. Disappointed in quality of REI brand and declining customer service. Will be finding alternative retailers in the future.
Love the fit and the feel of this and the matching bottoms. Fantastic. So pleased with these!
5 days and still going...i just got back from iceland. This was worn above a tank or tshirt and with my jacket. This was warmer than the sweater. It still going no smells.
Fabric is soft and smooth, top is well-made and fits very well. Color is as described- a soft heather-like blue. The collar shape and zipper are comfortable and provides some temperature control. I'm VERY happy with this top/shirt, (looks, comfort, fit, fabric weight) and was DELIGHTED to find it on sale! win-win!