REI Polartec or Terramar for base layer

[joshgray]

Hey, I'm starting my northbound AT thru-hike in the second half of March 2013. Currently deciding on my base layer.

The system I'm using for bottom is base layer, shorts, rainpants. System for top is base layer, shorts-shirt, fleece jacket, rain jacket.

I think I've narrowed it down to these three options:

1. REI Midweight Polartec Screw Shirt (http://www.rei.com/product/837173/rei-midweight-polartec-power-dry-crew-shirt-mens) and Pants (http://www.rei.com/product/837155/rei-midweight-polartec-power-dry-long-underwear-bottoms-mens)

3. Terramar Thermawool Superfine Merino Wool Midweight Pants (http://www.rei.com/product/837155/rei-midweight-polartec-power-dry-long-underwear-bottoms-mens]REI Midweight Polartec Long Underwear Bottoms[/URL]<br /> <br /> 2. [URL=&quot;http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___75183) and Crew Shirt (http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___75182)

3. Theunderwearguys Midweight HydroPur Thermals (http://theunderwearguys.com/product_info.php?cPath=52&products_id=179)


I'm not looking to get into a philosophical discussion of the virtues of wool versus polyester. I'm looking for opinions on which would keep me warmest, last longest (durability), wick moisture best, be most suitable for a thruhike, etc. I imagine weight is similar, although they aren't listed for the Polartec or the Hydropur.

Thanks!

P.S. I'm leaning toward the Terramar, but I'm unsure of its quality compared to midweight Smartwool stuff - it's half the price, is it worth half as much? And DANG that Hydropur is cheap!

[ChuckBrown]

I have used REI Polartec power dry for as long as its been around . I can only compare it to EMS shirts and pants, the other type i have worn. The wicking ability of the REI clothing is much better than EMS. I only use mid weight for sleeping,which keeps me warm enough for that, for hiking I use light weight. I prefer the zipper neck as opposed to crew. When hiking its easy to unzip and expose upper body to cool air. For REI clothing, The crotch on my pants seems to always go first, But with proof of purchase REI will replace any item for free. I still have my Gray REI ploartec 200 shirt from my GA to ME hike 12 years ago, although its in rough shape, I cant turn it in for a new one.

[joshgray]

Thanks for the info! The opinion on the zip-neck is especially appreciated.

I should probably add that I have some super lightweight silk top/bottoms for sleeping.

[Blissful]

My terramar has worked well for me. I have a polartec pullover from them that has gone 3,000 ,miles and silk baselayer. No issues.

[10-K]

IMO they're all fine. Just pick.

[joshgray]

Thanks for the info and affirmation guys. I'm getting weight data on the Hydro-Pur and then I'll make a decision between it or the Terramar. I just like having the wool I guess.

Cheers!

[Sarcasm the elf]

EMS is running a sale on base layers right now, 40% off of most of the smartwool. Just thought I'd give a heads up since this is the best deal I've seen in a while.

http://www.ems.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=18481406

[joshgray]

That's awesome! I'm upgrading, Smartwool is now my choice :-D

Just gotta decide between mid- or light-weight bottoms...