Merino wool, polyester or cotton?

Fifteen15 · World Chat Champion Joined: 25 Apr 2011 Karma :

I have some cheap 50% cotton, 50% polyester long sleeve shirts that I wear as base layers. Everyone seems to rave about merino wool being very warm. Would a 100% merino wool long sleeve base layer be much warmer that the 50% cotton/polyester stuff I wear now? In other words, would it be worth spending £40 to upgrade?
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"Pain is weakness leaving the body, and blood makes the grass grow faster...but I'll wear my gear anyway"

Clanger · Stirrer Joined: 27 May 2004 Karma :

Moo. · World Chat Champion Joined: 11 Jan 2009 Karma :

Question is, are you still cold?

If no, you dont really need too Very Happy

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Fifteen15 · World Chat Champion Joined: 25 Apr 2011 Karma :

What would be best to put on first. The cotton 50%/polyester 50% top first (next to the skin) and then the merino wool, or the merino wool first then the c/p?
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"Pain is weakness leaving the body, and blood makes the grass grow faster...but I'll wear my gear anyway"

covent.gardens · World Clap Champion Joined: 09 Jun 2012 Karma :

If you are unsure, get a 100% merino off eBay for about a tenner. Mine are second hand (but as new) jasper conran's and I'm very happy with them, I wear it on and off the bike and it does keep me warm. Overall I'd give it an 8/10 for performance and I also rate the anti-sweat and anti-smell properties highly.

Docker · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 15 Oct 2012 Karma :

merino wool keeps you cool in the heat and warm in the cold, only jumpers i ever wear are merino as polyester doesnt let your clothes breath.

Yes they will keep you much warmer.

Rogue_Shadow · World Chat Champion Joined: 10 May 2012 Karma :

keeping in line with this thread
How many layers does everyone wear?

I normally wear a short sleeve T-shirt and thermal with my jacket.
How does this compare to everyone else?

BigDan1190 · Could Be A Chat Bot Joined: 03 Mar 2010 Karma :

Work shirt, leather jacket. Bosh.

But I don't have far to go... Its only my hands that get cold really.

Frog · Traffic Copper Joined: 10 Jan 2011 Karma :

cimbian · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Sep 2012 Karma :

Rogerborg · nimbA Joined: 26 Oct 2010 Karma :

Merino as base layer = Thumbs Up

Score 100% merino whenever you can find it cheap. Go cheap. You can always add another cheap layer later, still for less cost than one premium set, and giving you more flexibility.
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