Patagonia Merino 2 Lightweight Zip-Neck Top - Women's

As far as versatile base layers go, lightweight merino can't be beat. It draws moisture away from the body, works well in any weather condition with proper layering, and doesn't adopt the smell of polyester! Patagonia makes a great product too.

Coupling an excellent material with an excellent manufacturer means this shirt is at the apex of its category.

Patagonia in general has a pretty steep price tag, but if you spend wisely it is well worth it. I bought this shirt a couple years ago and have gotten even more use than expected out of it. Being super light weight and odor resistant make it a great shirt for long backcountry hiking trips. I have also warn it on cool morning jogs and to race in. Amazingly I manage to stay warm while hiking/running, yet never over heat even when the morning chill burns off.

I had been told that lightweight wool was the way to go but didn't want to spend the money. I am so glad I did! Worth every penny! I am 5"10 and 145 lbs with really long arms and the M fit perfectly. I got the Pearl color and LOVE it! It is a very slim fit but that was what I was looking for so that I could use it as a base layer under other tops. The sleeves come to my wrists not quite to where it meets my hand (I usually like them a little longer) but I'm willing to deal with that. I am not a girly girl who usually likes gathers or feminine frills on my clothing but the gathers at the shoulders are actually really nice and allow for a broad range of movement. All in all a must have in any active woman's wardrobe. Thanks again Patagonia! And thanks to Backcountry for having it on sale!