I’ve always thought someone should create a base layer that wicks moisture, retains heat, doesn’t stink and feels great against your skin. Turns out, nature already created it, and the base layer is Merino wool. Jared Hargrave has long extolled the virtues of Merino wool here on this site, and after my girlfriend schooled me even further on its benefits, I had to see what the fuss was all about. Watson’s has been in the garment game since 1945, and they sent me their brand new line of 100% Merino wool base layers for a gear test. I wore them everywhere from cold Wasatch mountain days to wet nights in the Utah desert.
Watson’s wanted me fully ensconced in Merino, so they shipped their long sleeve top and long johns bottom layer. These are new to the company’s lineup of outdoor gear, and the addition is indicative of Merino wools newfound popularity. The garments are no frills: neutral gray color, not too much branding splashed all over, and a very nice cut. I found the fit to be ideal, and the fabric felt great against my skin. Because Merino wool is a natural fiber, there is far less (or none at all) irritation during activities. The other amazing trait of this material is that the wool is naturally antimicrobial. Essentially, Merino deters bacteria so you won’t stink when you’re out having fun. I pressed the issue by going almost a full month before first washing these base layers. Disgusting? Yes, very much so. However, I was amazed to find that every time I donned the long johns and top there was barely an odor to be found. After 3 weeks of use, they did get a little ripe, so I had to end my quest and throw them in the wash.
I used the Watson’s long underwear and long sleeve top for all sorts of outdoor adventuring. While snowboarding at the local resorts, I found them to be an ideal base kit for almost any condition. On chilly days they locked in my body’s warmth and kept me feeling toasty. Flip the script for the many warm days we experienced; the Merino wool was breathable, and absorbed my sweat to keep my dry and happy. During splitboarding outings I liked how well the fabric moved with my body. It stayed in place and never got bunched up while seeking those hidden pow stashes.
Base layers aren’t just for playing in the snow, and I rocked the Watson’s outfit during an early spring trip to Utah’s San Rafael Swell. The weather sucked! Cold mornings and rainy afternoons actually felt great compared to the windy and rainy nights. Miserable conditions, but this base layer combo was just the ticket to staying as comfortable as possible. My body was warm, and when the wind kicked up, I was happy to have the wool protection against my skin.
Rave review so far, right? Well, hold your horses. While I do love the Watson’s long sleeve top, the long johns have a fatal flaw: no crotch flap! The lack of a flap made for some interesting bathroom breaks. Folks, there were some very close calls! I grew rather tired of having to unbutton/unzip my outwear to accommodate for this, and feel that Watson’s should seriously consider a change for future versions of their long underwear.
The Watson’s Merino wool base layers performed well in snow, rain, wind, hot and cold temperatures alike. I loved the fit and feel, and give a big thumbs up to the no-stink factor of the wool. Aside from the crotch flap issue, these are damn near the perfect base layer combination. Now I see what all the hubbub is about with Merino base layers…the cult may have a new convert!
The Good: 100% Merino wool base layer means no stink, no skin irritation, and suited to almost any weather conditions.
The Bad: No crotch flap. Come on!
The Verdict: Watson’s Merino wool base layers are versatile, keep you dry, and won’t stink up the car after a big day of touring. At $55 apiece for the top and bottom, these definitely pack bang your bucks.