How to Choose Base Layers

Soft, breathable and naturally odor resistant, the ultrafine merino wool of the men's REI Co-op Merino 185 long-sleeve base layer top is beloved for both sweating on the trail and just sleeping.
Imported.
View the REI Co-op Merino 185 Product LineView all REI Co-op Men's Base Layer TopsBest Use | Multisport |
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Shirt Type | T-shirt |
Fabric | Merino wool |
Sun-Protective Fabric | Yes |
UPF Rating | 30 |
Moisture Wicking | Yes |
Quick Drying | Yes |
Underwear Weight | Lightweight |
Sleeve Length | Long Sleeve |
Gender | Men's |
Sustainability | Fair Trade Certified™ factory From a Climate Label Certified brand |
XS | S | M | L | XL | XXL | XXXL | 24 IN Waist | 26 IN Waist | 28 IN Waist | 30 IN Waist | 31 IN Waist | 32 IN Waist | 33 IN Waist | 34 IN Waist | 35 IN Waist | 36 IN Waist | 38 IN Waist | 40 IN Waist | 42 IN Waist | 44 IN Waist | 46 IN Waist | 48 IN Waist | 50 IN Waist | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chest | 35 | 36 - 38 | 39 - 41 | 42 - 45 | 46 - 49 | 50 - 53 | 54 - 57 | |||||||||||||||||
Sleeve Length | 32 | 32.5 | 33 | 33.5 | 34 | 34.75 | 35.5 | |||||||||||||||||
Waist | 27.5 | 28 - 30 | 32 - 34 | 36 - 38 | 40 - 42 | 44 - 46 | 48 - 50 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 38 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 46 | 48 | 50 |
Hip | 33.5 | 34.5 - 36.5 | 37.5 - 39.5 | 41 - 43 | 44 - 46.5 | 47.5 - 50.5 | 51.5 - 54.5 | 32 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 36.5 | 37 | 37.5 | 38.5 | 39.5 | 40.25 | 41 | 43 | 44 | 46.5 | 47.5 | 50.5 | 52.5 | 54.5 |
Inseam | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 |
Measurements are stated in inches unless otherwise indicated. Size chart values represent body measurements, not garment measurements.
SHORT: Some pants are available in short sizes, which generally means an inseam that is 2.5 inches shorter than regular sizes.
TALL: Some pants, shirts, jackets and parkas are available in tall sizes, which generally means an inseam that is 3 inches longer and a rise that is 1 inch longer, a shirt or jacket body that is 2 inches longer, a parka body that is 2.5 inches longer and sleeves that are 2.5 inches longer than regular sizes.
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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I have purchased two of these shirts now and I enjoy wearing them every time. The Tall gives the extra length I needed both in the torso and the sleeves as I am tall and skinny and often have trouble finding shirts with the right dimensions. Warm and comfy, I wear these shirts both for working outdoors and for staying warm inside. I worked a job wear I was outdoor in subfreezing temperatures for 12 hours at a time last winter. This was my favorite shirt to wear as a base layer over other name brand ones I own. I definitely recommend purchasing this shirt whether you work in long sleeves or you just like to be warm and comfortable at home.
I have a few iterations of this base layer from REI from various years in tall and regular lengths. This one is the best yet. Soft yet indestructible. I’m not the intended user—6’ tall female but I love the extra long sleeves and torso for biking. I am not ashamed to say I sometimes roll out of bed in this, throw a work appropriate sweater over it and bike in for the day no worse for wear. This latest version runs a bit bigger—size down if you want that second skin type layer. This is cut more like a t shirt. Like the other reviewer, my only regret was not buying a bunch more when they were in stock. Please bring back the tall sizes and more colors too!
I'm known to bash on REI-branded stuff when it doesn't meet my standards. Too much of it is low-quality and made to hit a price-point rather than made to hit a quality benchmark (and that price point keeps going up. These days, I'd choose to spend 30% more on Patagoina-quality and get something I know is made for the long haul). That said, I tried this top out because it comes in tall sizes! And if you know merino wool, you know that's rare. I've worn this probably 20 times over the course of a month and it's holding up well. The cut is excellent with plenty of body length to stay tucked in, and enough sleeve length that I can extend my arms with the sleeve cuffs pulling up to forearm. and all the seams are staying intact. I have icebreaker, and Nau, and Ibex wool tops that are a decade old but they don't fit this well (again, Tall sizes for the win!) Will this top last a decade? I'm doubtful, but based on my month of heavy wear, I'm somewhat optimistic. If it holds up through occasionally laundering (and lasts for at least a couple years), I'll call this a winner. PS -- REI, please give us a short-sleeve tall version!
This is such a nice product. It is a good weight to wear alone, but is fitted and light enough to layer for chilly times. I'm 6'5 with long arms, a 31" waist and 40" chest and the medium tall fits very well. Some shirts grab a bit when moving about and this just moves with me. I wish I'd bought 5.
Medium tall is the perfect fit for a 6 foot 4 slim guy. Sleeves plenty long, warm, doesn't smell.
It is hard to find long sleeve shirts that fit my frame. This one fits perfectly! I ordered the M Tall, and I am 6'3", 180 lbs. It's very lightweight. It doesn't have an unpleasant odor. It's a great base layer or stand alone shirt during this Fall season. I would love to see more color options. I would buy more of these.
Large tall - Perfect fit for 6'1" 185 lb athletic build (I think). Large Tall is flawless in sizing. Love this shirt for skiing or chilly hiking. Perfect length in sleeves and torso. Keeps you warm and merino really does what it says. Impressive stuff.