Skiing at Snowbird with Icebreakers Bodyfit Merino base layer

If you like spending time outdoors in the winter months, staying warm is a critical component to success. Whether it’s alpine or nordic skiing, snowshoeing, hunting or riding snow machines, proper layering for the activity at hand will differ. Dynamic activities will require less insulation while static activities will require more. As an alpine skier, I take a look at the hourly temps plus windchill for the duration of my ski day. Based on the ambient conditions and the type of skiing I’m planning, I then select my base layer, insulation layer and outer layer carefully. This is where the Bodyfit Merino base layer from Icebreakers comes in.

Always start with the base layer. This next-to-skin layer is critical for managing moisture as you perspire in addition to keeping you warm. A recent trip to Utah with my family saw temperatures hovering in the mid 20’s with some wind. The Icebreaker 100% Merino Wool 260 weight Base Layer was a perfect option to serve as both base and insulation layers. I felt the level of activity would allow me to skip my insulation layer and wear my Mammut hard shell pants and jacket directly over the Icebreaker base layer.

Snowbird Mountain Guides Cat Skiing Video:

Icebreaker uses body mapping technology to insure a smooth, less bulky fit. No bunching of material under the arms or elbows. Additionally, the flat lock seams provide a chafe free fit. Plus, Merino wool is naturally itch free compared to traditional wool. I recall my army issued wool socks itching like hell back in the day. Another natural property of Merino wool is the ability to remain oder resistant for longer. This allows you to pack lighter as you can re-use these pieces for more than one day if necessary.

Mens Merino 260 Tech Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Base Layer:

• Offset shoulder seams prevent pack rub
• Flatlock seams prevent chafing
• Backward set side seams for comfort
• Underarm gusset for comfort and mobility
• Drop tail hem for added coverage
• Center back length: 75cm/29¾” size L
• MSRP $98 ON SALE Amazon

Icebreaker also provided the matching bottoms to test and they are some of the most comfortable bottoms I’ve tested to date. Merino wools next-to-skin comfort is unmatched and these bottoms feature all of the same body mapping features as the top. Including a gusseted crotch and a functional fly. Which is nice when nature calls in the woods and you need to take a quick pee. The slim fitting and lack of bulk allow an unrestrictive fit below my Mammut hard shell pants making the perfect combination of warmth and protection.

Mens Merino 260 Tech Leggings w/ Fly Thermal Base Layer:

• icebreaker branded brushed elastic waistband
• Flatlock seams prevent chafing
• Contoured pouch with functioning fly
• Gusset for comfort and mobility
• Inseam: 78cm/30¾” size L
• MSRP: ON SALE Amazon

“Merino is super lightweight, soft, non-itchy, non-clammy, warm in the cold and cool in the heat, and has a miraculous ability to resist odor. Because it was made in the mountains rather than in a petrochemical laboratory. It’s naturally renewable, recyclable and biodegradable.” -icebreaker.com