Polypropylene vs polyester base layer.

Polypropylene vs polyester base layer One thing, as previously mentioned, the UA base layers will get stinky and will hold the stank forever. The military often uses base layer garments made from polypropylene. I've got a Polartec Power Grid base layer for warmer days and a Polartec Power Stretch base layer for colder days. That’s not to say that merino wool can’t be a great base layer, but for moto related activities in hot or cold, polypropylene is the most efficient and easiest to maintain. They are much cheaper of course, but not sure at what cost. But very few would mention the importance of a good base Note that some people may mention polypropylene aka "polypro" base layers, which were popular 35-40 years ago and replaced by less stinky polyester. The polyester base layers are nice but very stinky and difficult to wash out the odor. Dec 3, 2018 · Thicker mid-layers such as down jackets are best for wearing over long-sleeved base layers so that the base layer does the heavy lifting in terms of moisture management. aka poly-PEW!. Those happen when brands try to push the envelope on the light end of the fabric spectrum. Polypropylene's strength and chemical resistance make it a popular choice for geotextiles, filters, and medical devices where moisture and bacterial resistance are essential. in truth it works best as an intermediate layer instead of a base layer but is wonderful to sleep in by itself. Mar 30, 2025 · To appropriately evaluate each base layer's performance, we have divided our testing team into separate teams for each gender. Heavyweight base layers: Below-freezing temps. The list goes on. Aug 1, 2024 · As long as a garment was designed to be a base layer, you can assume that its fabric does a decent job of wicking moisture. Voormi makes some interesting base layers where the inside is wicking polyester and the outside is wool. These types of socks are great for hiking and other outdoor activities. The mid layer sizing is good. What is the difference between Polypro and Polyester? I read quite often that Polypro base layers stink. Author: Sam Brilleman. Adding polyester or nylon to Merino significantly increases durability and reduces stretching/sag after several days of use. Overall, while both polyester and nylon can be suitable for base layers, polyester is often preferred for its superior moisture-wicking properties, faster drying time, and softer feel against the skin. Jan 4, 2023 · 20 years ago alot of the synthetic stuff was polypropylene. In this paper, I subject base layers in various weights made from merino, merino blends, and alpaca to the suite of tests I have developed to evaluate base layer performance. I'm working on getting some new thermal base layers. We look at some of the features below. I have seen a few different options out there that are wool blend, usually 60% polyester and 40% merino wool. 99 women’s version. poly base layers. For bottoms I'm thinking about getting something merino wool, but seems the merino is usually mixed (50-60%) with another material, most common being polypropylene and polyester. However, the choice between polyester and nylon ultimately depends on individual preferences, intended use, and specific performance requirements. Mar 6, 2025 · Helly Hansen’s Lifa Stripe Crew is a case in point: This affordable layer is right at home on spring ski tours with a thin polypropylene construction that’s lightweight, highly breathable, and wicks sweat to an impressive degree (it does so much better than polyester). Alpaca vs. Patagonia Capilene, Arc’teryx Phasic, Rab Motiv and plenty of others are all Polyester fabrics. Which is it and why? Nov 27, 2021 #2 ZRob97 Lil-Rokslider. There is very strong science to document this claim. Bamboo Pros. The newer stuff seems to do better but it can hold odor even after a wash especially if it was left to ferment in a laundry basket or backpack for a few days, then the odor comes back with a vengeance with a little heat and sweat. Oct 2, 2006 · So, having explained this, polypropylene will dry much faster than polyester. The heavier your fabric is, the more water it holds, the slower it dries, and the colder it feels. Polyester has more UV resistance than polypropylene. Feb 11, 2025 · Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew & Bottom: $115: 218 g (top), 208 g (bottom) 100% merino wool: Midweight: Helly Hansen Women’s HH LIFA Long-sleeve Crew Base Layer: $45: 108 g: 100% polypropylene Polypropylene is often used as a base layer in the production of clothing to make other fabrics more waterproof and improve their ability to draw out water to their outer surface for evaporation. The Power Stretch layer is also so warm, I tend to wear just that and a hardshell to Nov 12, 2021 · It insulates better than the UA with regards to wet and windy conditions. So what gives? While we are on the subject, what is your favorite Sep 26, 2022 · Synthetic fabrics range from polyester to nylon, polypropylene, and more, but they generally all share similar properties. There’s 3 layers, base layer is wicking, middle layer is your insulation and outer layer is your protection from wind and snow. Polypropylene, on the other hand, offers higher impact resistance, flexibility, and chemical resistance, making it suitable for food packaging, medical Oct 14, 2023 · Polyester offers a level of comfort and is often used in clothing due to its resistance to wrinkles and quick-drying properties. They wick moisture away, keeping the wearer dry and warm. Merino vs. Depends upon the length of the trip. Polyester? Answer: They are fabric materials used as base layers and are very effective Poly pro is great, when people say that military gear isn't ideal for backpacking they're usually right, except for the poly pro tops. The lead reviewer for our Men's Base Layer lineup is Justin Simoni. Sep 21, 2023 · Synthetic base layers are made of material like polyester, nylon, or polypropylene. Base layers come in different fabrics with different weights, which is measured in grams per square metre (gsm). These base layers will keep the wearer warm when combined with ski wear. Our favorite Alpaca base layers: Paka and AlpacaTek. Jun 30, 2019 · Thick garments are obviously warmer than thin garments while tight fitting garments retain more body heat than loose one. Synthetic options are usually less expensive and more durable than their Merino friends, although they are typically less breathable and not as warm. The rule of a thumb is that the closer the mid-layer is to the skin, the better moisture-wicking properties it has to offer for providing and maintaining good warmth. So, if the objectives for selecting your base layer are light weight, warmth and moisture management it’s clear that a mesh base layer garment made from polypropylene simply will outperform all other options. It goes against all of my cold weather training. Oct 9, 2020 · When it comes to lightweight base layers, synthetic is typically more durable than merino wool. The average consumer can buy polypropylene undershirts at low cost as well, though. On a long trip you can wash one set with shampoo and cold water in the sink and hang to dry. There are three major functions of the base layer: managing moisture, protecting the skin, and maintaining your body’s correct temperature. Sep 3, 2021 · The primary difference between polyester and polypropylene is that polypropylene is non-absorbent and better at wicking moisture than polyester. Nov 27, 2021 · Let’s hear it. You might also see "ultralightweight" or "featherweight" or other similarly gossamer descriptors. Regardless of what you call them, your next-to-skin clothing layers are vital for ensuring your backpacking trip is safe and comfortable. Polyester is also more UV resistant than polypro. Nov 13, 2024 · For the full rundown of how alpaca performs compared to merino, check out our Merino Wool vs. Apr 15, 2019 · Polyester baselayers Polyester is far and away the most popular fabric used for baselayer and is the default choice for most outdoor brands. Polypropylene materials will hold in heat better than polyester, making it better for cold weather. Personally I found that merino, once wet, stays wet and that made me cold! Synthetic base layers dry quick and are better at moisture transfer. Polyester is by far the most common synthetic and a nice cost-effective alternative to merino: It keeps up in terms of moisture wicking, comfort is still fairly high, and it tends to be much more hardwearing. Note that insulation should be mainly provided by the mid-layer clothing (fleece jacket, down jacket etc. Synthetic base layers will largely be made from polyester and polyester blends. I also wear Merino boxers under my Merino base layer… really nice and I can go on long trips without being smelly or wasting time on laundry. Odor control May 12, 2018 · However, Wilderness Wear in Australia has developed a new line they call MerinoFusion which is a new hybrid weave made up of 50% Tasmanian merino wool and 50% ultrafine Schoeller polypropylene. The Base layer should be a wicking layer. In cold weather (below freezing), my base layer is midweight thermals, which allow me to hike without overheating. They move moisture really fast and work as a base layer or alone in warmer weather. What base layers are meant to do is to prevent you from getting cold – this might sound like semantics, but it is not. with that being said, you can find better bottoms than the poly pros, but you won't be disappointed with the top. But he suggests a polyester long-sleeve base layer from Amazon for very inexpensive. May 17, 2023 · What is a Base Layer? Answer: A base layer is a fabric that acts as an insulator in direct contact with your skin. Polyester has higher tensile strength, stiffness, and thermal resistance than polypropylene, making it ideal for fabrics, clothing, and industrial applications. Alpaca: Battle of the Base Layers. Synthetic Base Layers. True polypro does not absorb ANY water into the fibers, and will drain out and dry quicker than polyester, and MUCH faster than Nylon or wicking fabrics. (I only have limited experience with polyester baselayers so have not discussed them below) Nov 4, 2016 · Base layers will keep you warmer than being naked, or even wearing a t-shirt, but a real base layer (not so called “thermals“) is not meant to keep you warm. The larger the number, the heavier and thicker the garment – although where base layers are concerned, heavier/thicker does not always mean warmer. Thermal clothing is typically worn as a base layer to maximise heat retention in cold weather. Oct 11, 2024 · Infrared image of a water droplet (purple) wicking through a hydrophilic polyester base layer fabric (yellow). Merino wool base layers When I search for best base layer for treking, climbing, hiking etc I rarely see product from brand like Nike or Adidas. Sep 2, 2014 · Toughness and durability of synthetic base layers. Synthetic base layers are made of material like polyester, nylon, or polypropylene. For this reason, polyester materials are much easier to care for than polypropylene. One of the most common synthetic fabrics for long underwear is polyester. Apr 17, 2025 · Which is warmer polyester or polypropylene? Polyester materials are much easier to care for compared to polypropylene. Polyester all the way. ’ If you’re looking for cheap, cheerful, and very washable (a great place to start), Blacks have a similar polyester base layer top and bottom set for just £21. There are more chemical and physical differences, but our intention for this post today is to explain how the differences effect those of you who wish to craft with either material. Aug 1, 2024 · Lightweight base layers: Moderate to cool temps. There are manufacturers that make combination merino wool and polypropylene base layers. I think thin polyester baselayers of about 120 gsm are good all-rounders. Synthetics are much better at wicking than wool. Polypropylene is inherently hydrophobic, repelling water and effectively floating on its surface, making it useful in applications requiring moisture resistance. The tops can be worn as a single layer but the bottoms would just look baggy and weird on their own. On the flip side, with mesh, their base layers are a lot lighter than regular knit base layers. Nov 4, 2016 · Base layers will keep you warmer than being naked, or even wearing a t-shirt, but a real base layer (not so called “thermals“) is not meant to keep you warm. If you don't have a strong preference already, then consider the following attributes of each type of base layer fabric: Synthetics. Using the two base layers could replace a medium layer in certain weather conditions saving weight/space/etc. Nov 10, 2021 · Cotton is unsuitable for a technical base layer as the fabric soaks up moisture and draws heat away from the body leaving the wearer cold and uncomfortable. I've never even heard of a nylon base layer. Examples include sports bras, leggings, t-shirts, etc. I’ve been testing their midweight top and bottom Capilene layers throughout The difference between wool and polyester is not going to kill you. I use Smartwool baselayers since they blend their Merino with synthetic fibers so you get the best of both worlds. They help to keep the body warm and move sweat away from your body. How would they stack up to 100% Jan 28, 2025 · The Outdoor Research Alpine Onset Merino 150 Base Layers ($119 top; $99 bottom) are another merino wool base layer set, except these are a blend, with a large percentage of polyester and Lycra I’m blown away by the popularity of wool as a base layer. Although polypropylene is commonly blended, you can find 100% polypropylene socks. I have a "polyester" base layer that (I think) stinks in what seems like 2 minutes after I put it on. I want to get some Merino wool base layers but the 100% merino wool are outside my budget. Midlayers, on the other hand, don’t have to wick, so most are made out of completely hydrophobic materials like fleece or puffies with polyester fill It(like Primaloft). Oct 25, 2022 · In this paper, I subject base layers in various weights made from merino, merino blends, and alpaca to the suite of tests I have developed to evaluate base layer performance. This question has been driving me crazy for the past couple of weeks. Which Baselayer Is Best? — Merino Wool vs Synthetics. Arizona. Both types of synthetic baselayers are much tougher and retain their shape much better than the natural options below which means you can get a tighter fit, resulting in better insulation and wicking. This unique fabric is based on a yarn technology that moves moisture away from the skin and transports it to the surface of the fabric, where it evaporates, keeping you warm, dry and comfortable. The base layer of clothing is one of the most important layers for thermoregulation or control of your body temperature. Yes, cotton is not a good material in survival situations. I'd definitely use my wool layers for below-freezing days, but the polyester options will be perfect for non-alpine climbing. Check out OR Echo or the lightest Patagonia Capilene if they're available in your neck of the woods. A thermal base layer works by trapping body heat and minimising heat loss. Regardless, not getting chilled when you sweat and not getting clammy are big advantages. Joined Feb 4, 2020 Messages 252 Location N. Midweight base layers: Cold temps. You can always remove or add mid and top layers, but your base layer stays on. Alpaca base layers are best for: high-activity adventures, people with wool allergies, and cold-weather activities. The smell of synthetic base layers. I agree that wool works better in cold weather, but plenty of mountain guides, professional outdoor athletes, and military personnel wear polyester base layers, and the knit and fabric structure of decent polyester base layers brings it close to wool for performance. There are polypropylene base layers, but they stink worse than polyester, wear out faster, are scratchier feeling, and can melt in the clothes dryer. Super soft; Lightweight breathability Aug 24, 2009 · Yes, if it’s real polypropylene and not the fuzzy polyester we often wear when hiking. I think that a 50/50 blend makes the ideal base layer top for most conditions. The only real flaw with synthetic tops is the smell. Oct 16, 2018 · Source: Synthetic – Oil Typically used for: Base Layers; Mid-Layers; Pants; Polyester is the most widely used fiber for base-layer clothing as it is relatively inexpensive and offers great performance in certain aspects – not least because the fibers can be knit into a very lightweight fabric that is still durable. You can literally wear them all year, which for my budget is a much better value. Odor resistance is still pretty good. Having said that if you had a polypropylene base layer with a cotton t-shirt (sacrificial layer) over that and a synthetic fleece over that with an outer layer (windproof/waterproof) over that. Then apply next layers as appropriate. Mar 3, 2024 · Polypropylene and polyester find widespread use in various industrial applications due to their distinct properties and versatility. Polyester. Merino’s biggest advantage is that it won’t stink after you sweat it in it, but polyester base layers actually do a better job wicking sweat. It could be that a mesh base layer is as warm as a regular base layer, just lighter. Oct 21, 2018 · The polypropylene fiber also accepts color with very little processing. May 10, 2024 · SYNTHETIC BASE LAYERS. The options are endless, but time and again Patagonia’s Capilene baselayers come back as a top pick. ) and not by base-layer clothing. Jan 28, 2025 · Base layers made of synthetic fabric are usually made with Polyester or incorporate a blend of a natural fiber like Merino Wool with Polyester. Mid-weight: The best base layer for cold weather where temperatures are near 0C or 32F. Polypropylene also makes excellent thermals/long underwear (a two-piece set consisting of a long sleeve shirt and long pants, meant to be worn under your “real” clothes). Apr 23, 2003 · I have no idea what the difference is between polypro and polyester, but I would guess that polypro is a type of polyester. Made from insulating materials like wool or synthetic fibres, these garments create a layer of warm air next to the skin. Why? In general terms, Polyester wicks moisture away from the skin fast and dries quickly when it does get The base layer of clothing is one of the most important layers for thermoregulation or control of your body temperature. 99 sale price, both mens and $9. Heavyweight: The best base layer for extreme cold where temperatures are well below 0C or 32F during the winter or in cold climates. Polypropylene has a much lower melting point than polyester so you will want to avoid washing polypro in hot water or drying it. The Mount Merino Base Layer Top and Trousers combine wool and polyester, offering wool's natural benefits along with enhanced durability. Nylon absorbs a lot of water, can't imagine it making for a good base layer. I stick pretty religiously to my R1 hoody (just switch to the R1 pullover to drop the hood though, can't have a hood on every single layer). Dec 7, 2021 · It’s a common misconception that a heavier base layer is a warmer base layer. They go by many names… baselayers, next-to-skin layers, thermal underwear, long johns. A great base layer wicks moisture and keeps you warm during any activity. Base layer clothing should be quick-drying and thus made of relatively thin fabrics. Apr 30, 2021 · Bryn Davies beats the chill as he puts 15 base layers through their paces Ask any rider what item of clothing is key when maximising in-saddle comfort on the bike and you’ll likely receive a range of answers. Oct 25, 2022 · Wool vs. Whether the provide the best and/or the worst of both is debatable. Our range of LIFA® Active and Solen base layers use LIFA®. Whats the difference between a Nike Dri fit fabric VS patagonia capilene or other similar product for hiking in term of breathability, ability to wick moisture, to stay dry? Because technicaly, they're both 100% polyester. Available in both short and long sleeves and in ¾ length or full-length trousers, the Mount Merino series is perfect for skiing and similar higher-intensity activities in cold weather where you don’t want . Oct 17, 2024 · The base and mid layer products have very different sizing, I need to size up on the base layer model or it’s far too small, especially the bottoms. The fleece pullovers fit well and look good enough for the $12. Once evaporation becomes the dominant moisture transport mechanism (see the dark purple edge of the droplet near the top of the image), the fabric temperature cools because heat loss (from the fabric, air, and user’s body) occurs during evaporation. For some reason, the term "polypro" stuck, although AFIAK nobody has made polypro baselayers for at least two or three decades. Feb 16, 2016 · The market for high performance baselayers is pretty crowded these days, with a bewildering assortment of pure fabrics and blends with various treatments or paint-on silver dots. Sep 27, 2024 · Polypropylene and polyester are both synthetic polymers with distinct properties. I then compare the performance of these base layers with those of the polyester base layers I have recently reviewed. A local of Colorado, Justin maintains his fitness by performing year-round ascents of Longs Peak, often relying on human-powered bike-from-town approaches. Jackets, trousers and gloves will probably all get a mention, as will mid-layers like insulated linings and heated jackets. Polypropylene vs. It doesn't have good insulating properties and is awful when it's wet. Wool is hydrophilic, while polyester is hydrophobic. 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