I workout, stretch and run outdoors three to four times a week, it’s a routine I like.

It’s November already and it’s getting cold. I have a 100% merino wool mid layer long sleeved shirt I spent 130$ on I wear to the office but I don’t want to ruin it working out, stretching and running because it was expensive.

This piece of clothing is quite thick, like 2 layers put together. I don’t want to buy anything thinner for sport because I’ve read thinner undershirts/base layers break due to friction.

This is what I fear is going to happen with my merino mid/base layer if I workout with it, even if it’s on the thicker end of layers.

Another option would be to buy a regular polyester base layer to use with a synthetic mid layer or combine a synthetic base layer and a cotton mid layer. Would these be stupid ideas?

What should I use as an outer layer?

Overall, what brands would you recommend? I’m a skinny 5’6’’ woman.

  • @[email protected]
    3•2 months ago

    As someone else mentioned I would recommend a compression type base layer. You can get slightly different thickness ones that will help in different temperatures.

    I had a Nike DRI Fit one that lasted for 10 years, and would have lasted me longer if I hadn’t left it on the roof of my car at one point and lost it. You can get far cheaper ones as well though, my current one cost me around £15 and has lasted me 5 years so far and hasn’t stretched out of shape or have any holes in so far and I use it pretty much everyday during the winter ones.

    They keep air flowing and move sweet away from your skin to keep you dry as wetness will make you colder.

    In my opinion morino wool is one of the worst things I have tried. They make you sweat a lot more, dont move the wetness away from your skin exacerbating the problem and making you feel very uncomfortable and fall apart in no time when compared to compression garments.

    I’d say save your expensive wool for some when else.

    For other layers I tend to use a cotton t shirt over top the compression layer, maybe two t shirts if it is very cold and then add in things like gloves, something to cover your neck and face and then a wool hat of somekind.

    It is always best to be able to remove these layers where possible whilst you are running. In time you’ll find what works with you. I’d often start out with a few more layers for that initial start then once you get going progressively remove stuff until comfortable. I’d always rather be very slightly cold then too warm when running.