Arc'teryx  Rho Merino Wool Crew Neck Base Layer Top - Men's

I was comparing this to a competitors 100% merino wool base layer and opted for the rho because the 5% spandex makes a huge difference where I don't feel the prickliness of the wool. It feels incredible on the skin and regulates temperature well. I will likely be living in this all winter. For sizing base layers can be tricky since they need to be tight on you and not loose. I'm normally a small in everything but this shirt has some space between my skin and the fabric which I don't mind. I may need to try XS but I like how it fits a little loose. Highly recommend this base layer.

I have mostly used the Rho baselayer (not the merino version) and wasn't sure about trying the merino version, but having received one as a gift I tried it over the first month of ski season both in resort and backcountry and have now purchased a second one. Thermal regulation works ! Its not too warm or too cool and can be used multiple days without smelling too bad as its merino wool. I use for uphill and downhill skiing and don't notice I'm wearing it since I don't feel too damp, cold or hot. I haven't used it extreme cold yet.

This layer is simple, durable, warm, and unpretentious. No tricks, just an all around great baselayer that has become my first choice for almost every winter activity whether it's +5C or -20C. I've been wearing it ~4 times a week for the past 3 months and have been impressed with the durability, even through nasty early season bushwhacks. It's warm enough that it is often the only layer that I wear for running, ski touring, (approaching) ice climbing or cross country skiing, while also being a true-to-size fit that complements other layering choices. Perhaps the most striking feature is it's odour resistance; I'll often wear this 5-6 activities before washing it yet it retains it's elasticity without having any odour (at least none that I perceive, my partners might say otherwise).

i'm 6' and 185#'s and usually get XL's in arc'teryx crews. i took a chance on an L this time, since the size guide mentions that they've changed to slightly larger cuts. this feels and fits about right, but it's right on the line, if that's any help. this material is slightly thicker than i expected, a little more than the ionic hoodies i have. but, it seems fine now (late august near Seattle), so i'm thinking this will get a lot of year-round use. finally, like the ionic hoodie, this shirt was very slightly scratchy before i washed it (Euclan and cold water). after one washing, i can't tell any difference between this and any other soft merino wool shirt i own, including the ionics. let's face it, merino is the most comfortable fabric out there for t-shirts and this one is no exception.

This is an excellent base layer for aerobic exercise in cool weather. I find the fit excellent and the material very comfortable.

I have several base layers from SmartWool and Icebreaker but none of them fit like this ArcTeryx, which is much better tapered for an athletic build. Breathes exceptionally well, is just the right weight of merino for warmth and stretches on the move without resistance. Was a tad itchy when first worn but that was sorted after an initial washing. Was so impressed with the performance of this base layer that I went to buy another small and unfortunately they are now all sold out. This continues to be a problem with ArcTeryx, they seem not to be able to successfully gauge inventory levels to meet demand. As a business, they are leaving money on the table and frustrating clients. This is not the first time I have wanted to purchase multiples of an item after an initial purchase and testing period, only to find all was sold out.

This is an excellent base layer that will keep you warm in colder conditions. No matter the use, sport activities or general purpose around town, this crew neck will give you a comfortable sensation next to the skin, given the high merino content. It is thicker and warmer than the Ionia Merino Wool shirt LS, so make sure to wear it in colder conditions. The elastane gives you a sensation of support and mobility, even if the shirt fits tight.

It’s an amazing piece of garment, equipment is the proper word! Wool is the most versatile material, comfortable in a wide range of temperatures and travelers must-have. It can go for days without washing while camping, hunting etc. it has antibacterial properties. And being the Arcteryx quality ( it lasts for years) it can’t get any better than that!

I wear the merino top whenever. Its just so comfortable - light, warm, go to base layer, fits just right and has a decent drape almost as good as the Veilance equivalent. Itsgood for the city and for the mountain i hoe it doesn't pill or anything. Probably buy another one , could do with a dark cocoon colour or carob or even a ray colour please.

I'm a big advocate of this piece. I love the properties of merino and softness. I wear this all year in the mountains as my base layer. It is warm if it’s dry or wet, has anti-odor properties and is soft to the skin. Merino is a natural fabric and in my opinion it’s essential to have layers you can rely on it and wear day after day.