How to Choose Base Layers

Built to flex and follow you like a shadow, the men's Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino base layer bottoms put warmth first, while 3D knit mesh ventilation helps keep you dry and comfortable.
Imported.
View the Smartwool Intraknit Product LineView all Smartwool Men's Base Layer Bottoms| Best Use | Multisport |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 52% merino wool/44% polyester/2% elastane/2% polyamide |
| Moisture Wicking | Yes |
| Underwear Weight | Lightweight |
| Inseam (in.) | 28.75 inches |
| Gender | Men's |
| Sustainability | Contains ZQ merino wool |
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Loved the warmth of this base layer and the flexability. However after a two year period they fell apart. They were used for skiing and long distance cycling only during cold weather. I would say average use. I turned in a claim included pictures to Smartwool and it was declined. I decided to purchase again because of the warmth & comfort.
I replaced my previous base layer with the Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino base layer - top and bottom. They are comfy, well-made, and fit very well. On cold-weather bike rides, I wear them under REI Junction Hybrid cycling pants & Junction Hybrid jacket, with an extra layer and REI cycling windbreaker. Just got home from a 30-mile hilly bike ride in 35 degrees, here in Wisconsin. I was plenty warm with this combination. Previously, I used a different base layer, and upgrading to the Smartwool Intraknit Merino base layer made a bigger difference to my comfort and warmth on the ride than any other upgrade I've made to my cold weather riding attire. They're not cheap, but they're occasionally on sale (like right now, mid Nov '22). Honestly though, I would have paid full price. They're comfortable, very well-made, and all of my various Smartwool products have lasted me years and years. Highly recommended for cold-weather bike rides, walks, or hikes.
Great for Cold Weather Adventures I've been using the Men's Intraknit Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottom for a few weeks, and overall, I'm very impressed. The merino wool blend provides excellent warmth and breathability, making it perfect for hiking, skiing, or any cold-weather activity. The fit is snug but not restrictive, and the seamless design prevents chafing during long wear. The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is that the waistband could be a bit more comfortable—it tends to dig in slightly after extended use. Other than that, these are durable, well-made, and worth the investment for staying warm and dry.
An excellent product with a compromise between the benefits/draw-back of PE and merino fabrics. My main criticism is the extremely high-cut waist that rides all the way up to the belly button. It should be about two inches shorter than it currently is. Fit (Men's Medium): Great in the legs but unusually high waist band. I'm 5'9", 165lb, 31" Waist, Climber's Build. Pros: + Excellent wicking and drying times + Warm + Quality build Cons: - Unusual cut and fit at the waist - While already very soft to the touch, just a tad coarse compared to Icebreakers products.
I bought a set for running. I wear a medium in Smartwool base layers, the medium for intraknit is a lot shorter. I returned it, and bought an extra large. Its best to buy two sizes up from the merino wool base layers you normally buy, at least for me. Its a little heavier than the other base layers, its also not full merino, its 50% polyester. It doesn't absorb sweat as much as the 100% merino base layers, this may be because it has polyester. I ran a few weeks ago in 5 degree weather for ten miles, it kept me warm, the layer was just damp from my sweat. Its good if you just want to use it for the cold weather, but you might want to use a 100% merino base layer fir running.
I have two other pairs of Smart base layer bottoms. I love the way they feel and keep me comfortable in cool weather, but their one shortcoming is they don't wear that well. I purchased these men's Intraknit bottoms thinking they would remedy that one shortcoming. I ordered a size large since that is the size of my other two pair of Smartwool bottoms. When I tried these on the waist was uncomfortably tight. It was like they were 6 inches too small. If I ordered an xlarge or xxlarge they would be way too long. These would fit someone with a 32 inch inseam and a 28 inch waist. They also felt rough and hard, not at all like the regular soft Smartwool products. I returned them.
The material is really soft and mostly comfortable (a slight itch, but I could get used to that). The problem is the cut. I don't know what human this was measured for, but it's bad: * The waist band is really thick, super stiff, and uncomfortably tight * There's way too much material between the crotch and waistband. It means either the crotch is way too low and rubs / restricts leg movement, or the waistband is hiked up above your belly button. The only comparison I can make is to women's maternity pants. Like, "support your belly" high-waisted. * If you don't hike them way up, and the crotch is in the right place, then there's like 2" of extra fabric in front and maybe 1" in back. But if you do hike them way up, then they're too short at the ankle! The material makes me want to like them, but the cut ruins that. Very disappointing, definitely returning.
First time purchaser of smartwool. Been committed to UA coldgear for years and still committed. After three weeks 240 miles of gravel bike riding unwashed leggings 30-50 degree temps I like them a lot. Super comfortable against the skin. Never gave odorless material any thought but for those who feel odorless is a plus these are def odorless. Great job wicking sweat off the body. I have the XXL, should've gone with the XL. But I'm a first time purchaser. They hold up well. I don't have to stop my bike and feel the need to pull them up. I'll be purchasing a second set XL I'm 6""1 215lbs. My guess, these with the UA it'll be more than a month between washes. I wash my UA's delicate/cold hang dry. I'll do the same with these
This product's ventilation system worked wonderfully. The fit was perfect (5'9, 140lbs - Small), and these pants don't stink even if you live in them daily. Bought two years ago, and I have worn them around 100 days of the year. From weekly backcountry skiing in the Alps to working in the Uinta desert for months, these guys are awesome. Unfortunately, their bottoms have entirely deteriorated (fraying starting at the crotch). There are other brands I own that have seen the same use and are fine, but overall I'm not complaining. I used the heck out of them.
Very warm and comfortable, but odd there is no fly as they are mens pants. We were confused at first and thought we accidentally bought the women's ones.


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