How to Choose Base Layers

A warm merino wool base layer top for skiing, snowshoeing and other cold-weather pursuits, the women's Icebreaker Merino 260 Tech Long-Sleeve Half-Zip is a go-to piece for winter layering.
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Imported.
View all Icebreaker Women's Base Layer Tops| Best Use | Multisport |
|---|---|
| Shirt Type | T-shirt |
| Fabric | 100% wool, exclusive of decoration |
| Moisture Wicking | Yes |
| Quick Drying | Yes |
| Underwear Weight | Midweight |
| Sleeve Length | Long Sleeve |
| Gender | Women's |
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I purchased this in the Atlantis blue color. I was excited to get my new long underwear, but back at went to the store because  the tag in this top is located on your lower left side in an uncomfortable location, and worse, it’s not cloth, it’s stiff scratchy paper that is sewn into the top,  there is no way of removing it. And if you’re like me, and stiff paper scratchy tags really bother you, then cutting them with a scissor is also going to bother you because it leaves remains that are stiff scratchy paper, razors.  I’m very unhappy with this display of cheapness by otherwise good brand. Size was great. Purchased a small.
Substantial feel but soft this has been a great base layer for xc skiing in the very cold. Some wool base layers are like tissue paper. This quarter zip is substantial. Came back to order another icebreaker.
This is described as a heavyweight base layer. It's a thin, long-sleeved tshirt. It's not warm. I'm returning. It gets 2 stars because it's a nice sage green and it's comfortable, just not as described and not what I'm looking for.
Feels snuggly and soft. I have a circulation problem and need to keep my core warm. This is replacing my worn out top after years of wear.
Love the feel, fit and weight of this top. It is a bit heavier than I expected and is so cosy.
Love this piece. Have another in blue. It is great as a base layer or on its own if it is not too cold. Use it for birding on the Pacific coast when the winds make it nippy outside. It washes well and I hang it to dry. I am 5’3” and weigh 128# and bought a small. Fits great. It does run a tad long but that does not bother me — keeps my butt warm.
I took this with me on a long week at Mammoth Mountain for snowboarding. Wore this set under a shell everyday with weather that ranged from 30-56 degrees. Both pieces are well constructed, neat and tidy stitching and fit true to size. I am 5'2, 125-130# and a small fit me perfectly. There is a good amount of stretch without it being too tight or too baggy. Easily returns to original shape after use. I followed cleaning directions on the tags and was able to machine wash and flat dry with no problems. This is especially important to me because although I want natural fibers, I also want maintenance to be easy as well. The merino was so soft, breathable, and versatile. Kept me warm on very chilly mornings and was able to breathe and keep me warm enough against the wind, but cool enough during snowboarding in the sunshine on what felt like late spring skiing. Odor was kept to a minimum especially compared to my other synthetic heavy weight baselayers. I'm personally opting for more natural fibers in my wardrobe and merino wool is a great option.
This is just what I wanted. A heavier weight merino that I can use as a base layer or wear as a sweater with a shawl or scarf. Nice color too. I’m tired of grey and blue.
It's a nice shirt in terms of fit and style, but the color was really drab and unappealing. I returned it.


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