Surprised!

By jbm_13 Ranked #536 - Men's Lightweight Long Underwear - Tops May 14, 2009

But I really shouldn't be considering the quality of my BC branded Shift Welder hoody. I really had no interest in this since I've owned several Icebreaker and Smartwool merino tops over the years and grown quite loyal to the brands..but this is a nice surprise. It came up at a good price on S&C so I got my mormal size (M) in Abyss color. I'm not crazy about brightly colored shirts (I prefer black, dk brown, grey etc..) but this top fits so closely that it really can't be used for anything other than a baselayer unless you have a worked chest/guns to show off. (mine are so-so most of the year) As others have mentioned, the thumbholes are a little small but no biggie for me since I don't have large hands..at least they are reinforced well and the sleeves are plenty long. Unlike a lot of similar tops, the napolean pocket on the Merino Bliss is actually deep and large enough to be useful for more than a credit card...but it could be moot if you only use this as a baselayer underneath something else. The chest zip is very deep for excellent venting and also makes for easy on/off. The biggest thing about this top is the softness of the Merino...I had to take it off and check the tag to make sure it wasn't spun cotton or poly. Yes, it really is that soft...and softer than some of my more expensive Icebreaker tops. Basically I would have given the Merino Bliss 5 stars except for 3 things...the small thumbholes already mentioned, too close fitting to wear alone, and the lack of colors other than red/grey and navy/grey. If you're looking for a nice Merino baselayer for active pursuits (not cruising the mall) then grab the Merino Bliss...even at the normal price it wouldn't be a ripoff considering the price of Merino wool pieces in general.

View Details: Backcountry.com Merino Bliss Lightweight Long Underwear Top - Men's

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