In praise of Smartwool's base layers

Submitted by LifeofSMILEY t3_zjd7y4 in BuyItForLife

I have 3 sets of bottoms/tops, all different weights. I bought them over 10 years ago and probably wear them approx 20x/year during winter months. I've worn them snowmobiling, skiing, running, cycling, to ballgames, and/or just when I need a little more warmth indoors. It's uncanny how they can regulate your skin temperature during many different activities, and even more amazing that they don't develop perma-stink.

They have no holes, all seams are still intact, and they have no odors. I would love to buy more, but like so many high quality items of yesteryear, I'm worried their quality isn't what it once was.

So...thanks smartwool. Hopefully, you're using the same materials, process, and quality assurance so that others can get the same enjoyment from your clothes.

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Comments

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regaphysics t1_izuog4w wrote

Yeah imo darn tough gets way too much praise relative to smart wool. Every single piece I’ve had from smart wool has outlasted my DT. Not that I don’t like DT also. I think it’s just the warranty that everyone is so drawn to lol.

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LifeofSMILEY OP t1_izupps6 wrote

Replying to regaphysics (#909,476)

Agreed. I've had 1 pair of darn tough socks and I didn't care for the fit and feel. I could give some of their other styles a try, but I'm hooked on Fits, Swiftwick and Danners.

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GeoSol t1_izw1tf8 wrote

I've been loving my patagonia thermal layer, but the elastic is goign out and been thinking about getting something to replace them.

Gonna check out Smartwool. Thx for the suggestion.

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LarixOcc t1_izw3vrr wrote

The Smartwhool mock turtleneck with the 1/4 zipper is a game changer for people who work outdoors. Keeps the back of you neck warm in the morning. Allows you to regulate temp as you start moving.

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theatre-matt t1_izwk4il wrote

I don’t have any of their base layers, but I have several pairs of smartwool socks that are between 15-18 years old and still in great condition. They get weekly use in the cold months, and I still prefer them to all my new Darn Toughs. I bought my SW while going to college in the Rockies when they were still made in USA, and I’d still be buying them if they didn’t move their manufacturing.

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Mighty_Larch t1_izwpqlg wrote

I've been really disappointed in their base layers, I've worn holes in mine in less than a season, nice and warm, but definitely not bifl. On the other hand I have Craft long underwear and Duofold items that are nearly 20 years old that are in better condition than any of my Smartwool pieces.

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Srs_Bizz t1_izz1hnv wrote

Replying to LifeofSMILEY (#909,522)

Smartwool is alright, much like Darn Tough lasts a good long while.

I don't like that both companies blend non-natural fibers in.

Well-made 100% wool will last just as long if you care for it, and doesn't come with the microplastics issue. You do need to choose the finest merino wool, or alpaca, or cashmere, to get similar comfort against skin, but the prices are comparable at many vendors.

Good luck!

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Srs_Bizz t1_j04314i wrote

Replying to LifeofSMILEY (#923,324)

After some digging, it appears to be a mixed bag. You are correct, SW has 100% wool "base layers". However, they do not offer 100% natural fiber jackets, underwear, or socks. This is confusing terminology to me, since underwear and socks fall under the "base layer" definition when you consider how to layer clothing on in cold weather (oversocks are a thing).

So, I guess we were both correct in a way.

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LifeofSMILEY OP t1_j044cds wrote

Replying to Srs_Bizz (#923,405)

You're right--i believe they sell many different types of clothing and their socks are probably blends.

I guess the point of my rambling post was to comment on how well those pieces have held up over the years, but I'm hesitant to buy more out of fear that they ain't what they used to be. Some of the reviews on their site support my concerns. Some buyers say the fit and feel is different. I just need to stop being so demanding. :)

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