I had a pair of Smartwool bottoms (unfortunately, I do not remember the name), and they were so uncomfortably low-waisted, falling down under my three layers of other pants.
I’m not sure if I can trust the other brands. I’m working and recreating outdoors in temps from 10 to -10 and I really need to get this one right!
“KariTraa”, if available where you are?
Ali said:
“KariTraa”, if available where you are?
I love Kari Traa! They have lots of fabric options (synthetics, blends, and even 100% wool) for different temps/uses and really beautiful patterns and colors. Note that they run small. I’m usually a 2-4 in pants and wear a medium in Kari Traa base layer bottoms. You can often get them on sale (50% or more off) toward the end of the season–I’ve never paid full price. If you are in the USA they are sold at places like Backcountry, REI, Public Lands (formerly Moosejaw), and most ski/snowboarding shops.
I’ve really liked the 300 weight Icebreaker (has high waisted options) or Meriwool (has a thick waist band) merino leggings! Haven’t used them alone in super cold weather, but I’ve layered them with an insulated bib in -40F during snowshoeing/stargazing and they were fine.
That’s the main issue with woolpower 400 (I’m assuming). My girlfriend and I use the same. They are best used as a mid layer. We wear ruskovilla long underwear first and then those when it’s really cold. They stay up a lot better when you have something on under them.
Not sure where you are, but Ruskovilla is the best I have ever used. Svala is great too as well as Devold
I actually really like cheap synthetic Cuddleduds.
@An
yeahh but I’m going to be in -20 windchill so I really don’t want to risk it with the synthetics. though I would get some for everyday use in the city
Arc’Teryx Kyanite is high-waisted and quite warm.
Not wool (unsure if that’s a must for you), but I love my Crash Polartec Tights from Title Nine.
I’ve always used fruit of the loom either waffle or the satin-ish ones and I love them…thin enough to fit under jeans or any pants but also warm (they do tend to be the high rise around your belly button) but I feel like that’s how thermals should be😂
Not sure if they’ve recently changed or if they even still sell them but I’m 37 and my mom has bought me a pair almost every Xmas lol
Costco’s Paradox brand has some fairly decent merino-blend base layers, and Uniqlo’s HeatTech line is surprisingly good if you’re okay going fully synthetic. I wear both fairly consistently from Nov. - Apr.
I love my smartwools. They have a thick waist band that stays put and are nice and high. I ware the plus size ones, but I would definitely recommend trying a different style from them.
Uniqlo Heattech is amazing
Uniqlo. No brainer.
Minus 33 is a merino wool company out of NH.
They have various weights, too.
rei brand is my light mid-layer, and the waistband is amazing. it’s high and wide, very comfortable. you might want to see if they have a colder weather version with a similar waist.
I had the same problem with my smart wool bottoms! It was a sensory nightmare! Not to mention, made me feel like I was in high school again with my literal ass fighting for its life to stay contained within my low rise jeans. Thought those days were behind me.
Patagonia thermal weight for kenetic activities , and icebreaker 260 for static /low output stuff. Best two layers I’ve found, and I own quite a few.
If you’re REALLY needing sole warmth, I use First Lute Furnace layers, but only for hunting late season.
Brands make many styles, and I’m not sure it’s reasonable to equate the brand (Smartwool) with the style (low waisted). If you want a higher-waisted base layer, then you’ll have to try on base layers and find one that suits.
Kari Traa, Icebreakers, and Under Armor (the last just for base layers) have all served me well. Make sure you’re playing attention to the ‘level’/material weight and getting the right duty layers for your application.
Layers
The best base layer is thin and synthetic … water wicking
Then add a wool or fleece layer
Then puffy, then shell