For those looking to stretch their dollar further on thermal wear, consider shopping at military surplus stores. You can find ECWCS polartech items for a fraction of the cost compared to specialized gear shops. They come in practical colors like sand, coyote, olive, and black. The same savings can apply to socks as well. Many sock manufacturers offer a ‘Tactical’ line which tends to be cheaper than their ‘Sport’ line. Check out the variety in the mentioned colors.
Absolutely, the level 1 silks and level 2 waffles from military lines are top-notch.
Just make sure to avoid knockoffs or lower-quality brands like ROTHCO.
Zev said:
Just make sure to avoid knockoffs or lower-quality brands like ROTHCO.
I’ve found some decent budget-friendly pieces from tactical brands. For example, the Condor Base II quarter zip top serves as a great mid-layer without breaking the bank.
@Sky
True, Condor and Propper offer decent quality. However, be cautious with Rothco as their quality has declined significantly and is often better suited for cosplay or airsoft rather than serious outdoor activities.
Zev said:
Just make sure to avoid knockoffs or lower-quality brands like ROTHCO.
The Rothco grid fleece neck gaiter has worked well for me, and their boots are durable too. I had an issue with a pair of desert boots that came with an unglued sole, but they replaced it quickly without hassle.
I’ve been using polypro underwear and waffle top grid fleeces for over 20 years. They are incredibly cost-effective, and while they may not have the brand recognition of a Patagonia R1, the value is unbeatable—you can get about six waffle tops for the price of one R1.