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.
What type of weather are you running in? In my area it gets just below freezing in the winter, and I run with a full length compression shirt, then a technical running tee, then a fleece jacket. Works in wind, rain and snow between around 12c and -4c. Leggings and head/face covering are also often needed.
Biggest thing for me is really socks and runners; socks are wicking insulated running socks with an ankle, shoes have GoreTex uppers to keep my feet warm and dry.
Something to also take into consideration is how hard you’re pushing/sweating.
Merino wool will definitely work as a mid layer, but you’ll likely overheat pretty quickly, and it’s hard to get the sweat out.
Is Merino Wool hard to wash?
Depends? If you want it to keep its size, softness and insulative properties, yes — wash by hand and hang to dry. But being wool, it binds to oils well, including body oils.