SmartWool Lightweight Zip T

Summary

Good wool layer with easy care

This is a great under layer, or for single layer wear without a pack. It washes well and dries pretty fast. If you work up a sweat on the trail it doesn't wick super well and takes longer than other products to dry. Although dryer time after washing is pretty fast.

This is an excellent light base layer, and the zip-neck adds versatility as you can unzip to ventilate if you get warm. What they say about merino wool is true--it doesn't itch, feels drier than synthetics when you sweat in it, and takes a lot longer to start smelling ripe than synthetics. Besides, at least for me, the fact that it is a natural material is appealing.

I wear mine for hiking and trail running. The fit is just right and it can be washed and tumble dried without messing that up--shrinkage is minimal. I seldom wear my synthetic base layers anymore since trying Smartwool and similar products.