Written by: Tracy (@tracy_gall)
I’ve been testing out some Icebreaker base and mid layers over the last couple of weeks on both a camping trip and a hiking trip, and I wanted to share my honest thoughts about them and tell you why they could be a great addition to your closet this coming fall, winter, and spring!
The pieces I’ve been testing include:
- Oasis 200 Base Layer Long Sleeve
- Oasis 200 Base Layer Leggings
- Descender 200
- Drift Pants
- Oasis Beanie
- Merino Blend Hike+ Light Crew Socks
Chilly mornings and evenings are not my favourite, but they’re just part of the changing seasons in BC. These layers were a great option to help keep me warm, and didn’t leave me feeling like I was over bundled.
One of my favourite ways to use my base layers is when I’m camping. Sleeping in a merino base layer is a great way to stay warm in your sleeping bag throughout the night without having to wear multiple items and risk getting sweaty. The Oasis 200 layers were particularly nice. They were warm, comfortable, and light enough that I didn’t feel restricted while sleeping.
Why Merino Wool?
One of the things I love about Icebreaker clothing is that they use merino wool. Merino is a great material for outdoor clothing because it helps regulate your temperature while also wicking moisture away from your skin.
This has been especially helpful for me when hiking uphill but wanting stop for lunch or a snack since I cool down quickly when I stop moving. It’s also helpful when the sun disappears and the air begins to cool down. I was able to start my morning without worrying about being too chilly, and gradually warming up as I began to move. I never felt damp in these layers because they did such a great job of keeping the moisture away from my body.I’ve also been making a conscious effort over the last few years to fill my closet with more natural fibres, so merino wool has big place in my closet and I couldn’t recommend it enough.
Beyond its warmth and natural material, it’s not itchy! I’m someone who will donate an item immediately if it irritates my skin, so being able to truly enjoy wearing these layers was wonderful. Each piece was soft, with not scratchy threads or annoying tags, I was able to wear these pieces comfortably all day.
Easy to Layer
I really appreciate that Icebreaker designs their pieces true to size, while still leaving enough room to layer.
The Drift Pants have been particularly nice for this because I can wear them alone or layer them over my base layer for some extra warmth without them bunching up or feeling restrictive. The Descender 200 was also nice to layer, but I really enjoy having even more layers on my upper body, so adding a puffy jacket to that was a must for me.
Having recently taken the base layers out on a five-hour hiking adventure, I was very happy but not at all surprised by how well they helped regulate my temperature. We started hiking early in the morning, and it was quite chilly, with a dusting of snow on the mountains. I’m not someone who can do the whole “Be bold. Start cold.” thing, so I did have a puffy jacket on over of my base layer. As my body temperature warmed up, I didn’t feel sweaty and the layers didn’t cling to me.
At the top of the hike, I added another jacket because of the wind, but other than my hands and
face, I was warm enough to enjoy the views for about 15 minutes.
Don’t Forget Your Feet
These socks were a dream for camping. They helped keep my feet warm and dry, which is especially nice when it’s easier to put sandals on around camp instead of proper shoes.
While I love the look of these lighter coloured socks, I might switch them up for a darker colour next time. Camping and hiking can get pretty dusty, and as cute as they are, they aren’t as cute covered in brown dirt.
If you’re going for looks though, 10/10! And even if they don’t stay clean, your feet will be happy.
My Takeaway
After spending some time testing these pieces, I can see them becoming staples in my outdoor wardrobe throughout the cooler months. Having a few versatile layers that work for hiking, camping, travelling, or simply going outside on a chilly day makes getting ready for changing temperatures a lot easier.
The base layers, Descender 200, beanie, and socks are all great options to add to your wardrobe to help you stay warm, dry and comfortable. They kept my temperature well-regulated when moving uphill, standing around at the top, and coming back down, as well as while sleeping and hanging out around camp.
If I had to pick a favourite item out of them all, I would say the Oasis 200 Base Layer Long Sleeve, specifically because it didn’t move or bunch up under my backpack. I put it on and it stayed put!
If you’re looking to add to your outdoor gear for fall, winter, and spring, I think a good merino base layer is the perfect place to start. From there, you can add to your layers depending on the weather, activity, and how warm you like to be. And if you really want to elevate your hiking experience, have the Drift Pants waiting for you in the car for the drive home!
Having reliable layers in your bag is always important, and you’ll never regret packing that extra layer!
