Reader Reviews

Rating: 5 / 5

Yes I live in Arizona and I still love wool! I have always been impressed with SmartWool socks and their crew and bottoms don't disappoint. I have had the lightweight longsleeve merino wool crew and bottoms for a couple years. They have a few holes in them from losing a few battles with the Arizona brush, but the holes have been surprisingly rip resistent in that the holes haven't become larger tears.

I can generally wear these comfortably up into the 80's. (I do better in the heat so some folks might not want these over 70 degrees.) I love the fact that I can develop a bit of a sweat during the day and still have a high degree of thermal protection at night, even when moist.

I used to use the midweight top and bottom during winter, but have learned that these can soak up too much moisture for my comfort. I learned from some very experienced folks to layer lighter weight baselayers for improved thermoregulation and moisture control.

This baselayer is heavier than my Kenyon polypro baselayer I used to use, but I prefer the feel of merino wool and I can go months without washing them! (Just don't tell my wife.)