Base Layers

[VolfYoder]

I find Merino wool to be by far the best option, but admit that most 'proper' Merino wool baselayers are crazily expensive. However, here's a tip. Pop round to your local Debenhams/M&S/equivalent. They're probably selling thin, 'smart' sweaters made of 100% Merino wool, for about 35-40 quid. This is a substantial saving from the recognised brands (Woolpower, Smartwool, Icebreaker, etc), and in my experience they perform just as well as a baselayer. My 'John Rocha' sweater, bought from Debenhams a few years ago, is still going strong, despite being worn a lot under my Filson cruiser wool jacket, which, whilst being a brilliant jacket, is unlined and made of fairly rough wool, so it's usually quite tough on any sweater that's worn underneath it. Shop around and you'll be able to find some green or brown ones.