[Jill]

What kind of long underwear does everyone prefer? I see that Smartwool seems to be popular but is that what everyone uses? Ready for the investment but can't decide on what to buy!

[L. Cheepoh]

I get whatever non-cotton material is on sale. Since I wear the stuff so often, and they wear out after a while, I have to go with price. I don't think it makes THAT much difference. I've worn several types and what matters more is if I can stretch it over my boots, so I can peel off that layer without taking the boots off.

[Steve]

I prefer the polypropylene lightweight stuff for both tops and bottoms. They keep mewarm when its cool and don't make me overheated when it's warm. They wick the moisture out quickly and last for many years. I personally haven't had a problem with them stinking but many people do.

[Allison]

REI Brand midweights are not too bad, keeps you warm and feels good against the skin.

[Sundance Kid]

DO NOT use cotton!!! Cotton sucks very hard. Hint, hint: stay away from Duofold. I like anything 100% polyester, as this wicks away sweat quickly and breathes well. I have a pair of "Hot Chillys." I don't know where my parents got them, but I've seen them for sale at ski resorts. They work very well. I personally prefer Patagonia Capilene. This is superior to everything in my opinion. I've had my pair since I was 13 (I'm 24 now) and aside from wanting to patch a small hole worn in the knee, they've worked wonders for me over the many times I've worn them. Yes, they're quite expensive, but I'll guarantee that you will be satisfied. Anything that will last you 10 years and still go strong is worth $80 for top and bottom. Look online at REI-outlet.com and you might get a good deal. Speaking of REI-outlet, I got a Helly Hansen boarding jacket, originally $300, for $65. I'm a big fan of REI outlet when I have the money to actually buy something.

[kleet]

When I went to buy something other than cotton longjohns, I couldn't decide if I should get lightweight, midweight or heavyweight polypro. I figured midweight was the best compromise, though it is sometimes too dang warm. I am impressed by just how warm it keeps me and how much quicker it dries than that cotton stuff... REI Outlet is a good place to look. Also check Sierra Trading Post, they always seem to have a good price on it.

[Dante]

I like the feel of Merino wool. My second choice is polyester microfiber. Cabelas sells some merino cheaper than Smartwool and then there's another brand called Ulfrote or something like that and Icebreaker from New Zealand. Unfortunately, most wool is too heavy for me--like midweight polypro. I want to try one of the new lighter weight tops from Icebreakers or Smartwool (Aero). The new stuff is about the same weight as light weight Capilene.

[#19]

personally, I don't think it matters much. Its all good. But I would take exception with this

[Dante]

Me too. I picked up some Duofold Coolmax Alta cheap. I like it better than Patagucci's silkweight capilene.

[Tom]

I bought some merlino wool underwear from REI (if you read the fine print they're only 20% merlino wool). I haven't used them yet but am curious if anyone else has used this product? BTW, sizing runs a bit small.

[Dante]

Cabelas has the best deal I found when I looked: http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/pod/standard-pod-wrapped.jhtml?id=0007097&navAction=jump It's 100% merino. An XL crew-neck tips my scale at a little over 8 oz. Sierra Trading Post has some Smartwool on sale for $38 right now, but I think the Cabellas stuff is lighter.

[Backpacker Joe]

I havent tried Dante's Merino, but my vote goes to SmartWool! TB

[Allison]

We must be shopping at the same store--I have custom fleece hot pants for when my hiney gets cold, or when there is too much deadfall or bushwhacking for my hiking skirt.