I’m searching for a good heavyweight base layer shirt for under $50 to keep hiking through the winter. While I’d prefer Merino wool, I understand it can be pricey, typically ranging from $70-$150. Any suggestions for something effective yet affordable? Thanks in advance!
For budget-friendly options, check out 32 Degrees. They offer lightweight and midweight base layers at great prices. Here’s a link to their collection: 32 Degrees Base Layers. I recently got a puffer jacket for my kid from there, and it’s quite decent for the price.
@Parker
Wow, thanks for the tip! I think I’ve found my new go-to for basics.
Nate said:
@Parker
Wow, thanks for the tip! I think I’ve found my new go-to for basics.
Right? It’s surprisingly good quality for the price, especially for base layers and other basics.
Nate said:
@Parker
Wow, thanks for the tip! I think I’ve found my new go-to for basics.
You can also find their products at Costco, which might save you even more.
Nate said:
@Parker
Wow, thanks for the tip! I think I’ve found my new go-to for basics.
You can also find their products at Costco, which might save you even more.
I don’t have a Costco membership, but thanks for the suggestion!
Any synthetic heavyweight long sleeve should do the job, just make sure it’s designed for cold weather. Sometimes simpler options work just as well without costing a lot.
Laken said:
Any synthetic heavyweight long sleeve should do the job, just make sure it’s designed for cold weather. Sometimes simpler options work just as well without costing a lot.
Looking for helpful, specific recommendations here, not general advice.
For deals on high-quality base layers, including Merino wool, check out online outlets like Sierra and Steep and Cheap. Brands like Icebreaker and Smartwool often have discounts there.
Penn said:
For deals on high-quality base layers, including Merino wool, check out online outlets like Sierra and Steep and Cheap. Brands like Icebreaker and Smartwool often have discounts there.
Agreed, I always find good Merino options at those sites.
Uniqlo has some solid options that might be suitable for you, though they’re not specifically heavy-duty.
Consider Uniqlo Heattech for a budget-friendly base layer. It’s quite effective.
Decathlon offers inexpensive Merino base layers. Right now, they also have a 10% cash back offer if you use Rakuten.
I recommend checking out 32degrees for their base layer sets. I purchased three and am very satisfied.
Try looking in ski town thrift stores. You can find high-quality gear at significantly reduced prices.
I found excellent deals on Under Armour cold gear on eBay, including tights and shirts. They work great even in severe cold as part of a layered clothing strategy.
Work gear brands like Carhartt and Dickies make affordable thermal tops that are extremely warm for outdoor work and could be a good fit for hiking.
Used wool tops can be a great budget-friendly option if you don’t mind minor imperfections like small holes. They’re especially effective as a base layer where appearance is less important.
Clancy said:
Used wool tops can be a great budget-friendly option if you don’t mind minor imperfections like small holes. They’re especially effective as a base layer where appearance is less important.
Absolutely, thrifted wool sweaters are an underrated resource for warm base layers on a budget.
The key is to find a base layer that insulates and wicks moisture without being too bulky. I use a thin merino wool top from Smartwool and layer up as needed, depending on the activity and weather conditions.