eleveneightnate wrote: Tue Jan 07, 2025 6:52 pm
Snagged an Icebreaker Oasis merino base layer top and bottom in the 200 weight. Man, i waited way too long to go 100% merino... it's a game changer.
I’m in synthetics (Patagonia Capilene) for most day trips. I bust out merino when I wear the base layer multiple days or if I’m expecting really cold temps.
Merino’s dope, better temp regulation and general feel for sure. But fragile unless you baby it (no washer/dryer, keep it away from jean zippers, etc.) and doesn’t keep its shape well. And stays wet longer once it gets soaked— takes more moisture to saturate it compared to synthetics and still insulates when wet, but feels gross and smells like wet farm animal lol.
If I had to pick one and wear it everyday I’d probably go merino, but when I know I’m going to immediately wash the layer and temps are mild, I’ll grab a loose weave synthetic every time.
I just got an Airhole balaclava for the colder days, it’s definitely not as comfy fitting as a BlackStrap but seems like it will keep my face covered more effectively. I’ve been wearing a thin merino 686 hinged balaclava lately and it’s only OK and doesn’t keep my hair in so I end up with strands like the ladies.
after reading through this thread, i realized i don't have too many requirements when riding resorts. backcountry is a different story of course.
things i do love:
-i am a bib convert, i love how they feel and the front pockets/pouch, it's like a security blanket.
-i usually will wear my oyuki balaclava, but have been getting away with just the helmet recently as it's been warm here and my beard has kept me warm
-always rock a capilene base-layer upper, i have patagonia ones from high school that still work for me which is wild. usually just rock gym shorts under my bibs, will throw on long compression pants if gets into single digits, but i generally run very hot.
-i acquired vans quilted snowlodge slippers last year and i wear those the entire winter when i'm not in boots. my ski friends have those line quilted boots which i want very badly, but cannot bring myself to wear line stuff. they look so freaking cozy tho my goodness
-usually will rock darn toughs or smart wool socks
i used to be a heavy airpod user, but just scooped some chips for my helmet and curious how i'll like those
scrub wrote: Wed Jan 08, 2025 2:51 pm
I just got an Airhole balaclava for the colder days, it’s definitely not as comfy fitting as a BlackStrap but seems like it will keep my face covered more effectively. I’ve been wearing a thin merino 686 hinged balaclava lately and it’s only OK and doesn’t keep my hair in so I end up with strands like the ladies.
Interesting. you didn't find BlackStrap to cover your face effectively?
Will be keen to hear how the airhole actually works and whether you'll be able to get away with having it tucked under your goggles without creating fog. I considered grabbing an airhole but heard mixed reviews, so ended up with another blackstrap expedition for colder days.
fuck, the last week I ordered a couple of BlackStrap balaclava, because my neckwarmer leave my chin uncovered, during cold days...
I thought I was going to fix the issue, with these balaclava.
I should have gone with an Airblaster Terryclava, maybe
Skidding turns since 2011 - Capita & Salomon boards, Jones Mercury bindings, Salomon boots
I put the neckwarmer under my helmet strap, seems to work fine. Used a scooter mask when it's so cold I'd get frostbite on my cheeks, but there's some cold cream stuff that probably works when it's dry at least.
