Alright, let’s be real for a moment, base layer is the most overlooked piece of clothing for skiing and snowboarding. And yet, it’s one of the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to outdoor winter activities. The best base layer for skiing and snowboarding has to be functional. Your discount leggings, and old long sleeve t-shirt are cute, but they aren’t cutting it. Base layer has been all too important in my snowboard journey, and just like your outerwear, it has to be comfortable, it has to keep you warm, keep you dry, and prevent any stinky odour.
I recently discovered Smatwool’s Intraknit™ Merino 200 base layer which is a real game changer. Before I dive into my review about this base layer, here’s a video from Smartwool that dives a bit deeper into this very cool fabric.
Amazing, right? Well it really is! As it’s made with 3D knit construction, the garments have very little seams and it stays put. So yeah, it’s not uncomfortable and there is 0 chafing. As this is a technical base layer, the merino yard is very quick drying as well as extremely comfortable and warm. I wore the bottoms with a lightly lined snow pant and the top with my lightly lined Burton jacket on a day that was -1C and I was more than warm. This is the kind of base layer you need when enjoying your time on the slopes as well as running after the kids on the bunny hill (both of these things have been done while wearing the Intraknit™ base layer.)
Can I also mention how cute this base layer is? I mean, it’s pretty nice looking which is another lovely bonus and I feel really snug, but not overly constrictive. I’m also rather tall (at 5’10”) and this set fits really nice, not too short at all.
Let’s talk about price, shall we? Now the age old adage of “you get what you pay for” is something I strongly believe. I’ve had some of the same base layers since 2006, because good base layer LASTS a long time. The Intraknit collection from Smartwool is not fast fashion, nor is it something that you’ll replace quickly, and like I mentioned above this is pretty technical stuff which is made well. The Intraknit™ Merino 200 crew sells for $155 CAD, the Intraknit™ Merino 250 with 1/4 zip (the one I’m wearing) sells for $180 CAD, and the Smartwool Intraknit™ Merino 200 base layer bottoms are $150.
Final thoughts: this is a GREAT base layer and something that will make you feel good, look good, and keep your warm and dry all day long.
Disclosure: Smartwool sent me this base layer to test out and give my honest review. I can say that my opinion is 100% my own and I do strongly recommend this product.
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