Hello all: I've been looking at new posts and came across some info which encouraged me to re-think a bit. We will be in Wengen 9-13 May and visit the Jungfraujoch. Will silk underwear make as effective a base layer as merino wool? Looking for cold to warm temperature adjustability and ability to wick sweat away efficiently. Thank you.
Posted by
Chicago
4136 posts
This article might help you decide.
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/underwear.html
I have a couple different pairs of long johns. One is silk and the other i think is polyester. I like to have that extra layer under my jeans when i am out early in the am. I don't wear them all day.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
16794 posts
I use the lightweight base layers from 32 Degrees. It is sold at Costco but also on their own website. It works well for me although this winter it's not really been cold enough to need a base layer here at home. They pack down small which I think was your concern on an earlier post.
For myself, if I didn't go for the 32 degrees brand, I'd go with the silk that is stretchy over a Merino. I wanted to not be allergic to Merino but alas even though all the ads say it's not allergic it makes me itch.
Posted by
Bay Area, California
1885 posts
Another factor to consider is how you wash the base layers. Both should be hand washed and air dried, although some merino wool products can be machine washed. Depending on where you live, you can also purchase some "warming packs" from outdoor supply stores or a Japanese houseware shop called Daiso.
Posted by
Northern Minnesota
971 posts
Like Pam, I would go with the silk for the same reason. I also think at that time of year you could use a pair of tights (that's what I've been using since my silk longjohns wore out).
Posted by
OP
lake forest park, washington, usa
181 posts
thank you all. Your information was most helpful! I already bought a merino sweater - quite thin, good price, love the color. I May keep it if even not just for this trip. BUT, I would like to have the silk - at least for the top. I just ordered bottoms -leggings by 32 degrees.
Posted by
SF
99 posts
I know that weather is unpredictable because the Alps were white when we flew home from Milan on June 25, 2024, but would you pack a bottom layer, just in case, for Lauterbrunnen in June?
Posted by
Chicago
4136 posts
Lindann, I’m in the habit of taking my long johns on most trips. I like to get out early in the morning when it can be pretty chilly. They don’t take up any space in my luggage. For June, I would take a light pair, like these:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZMDHSCG?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1&th=1&psc=1