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Bull elk pawing through deep snow on a sagebrush slope in warm winter light, Yellowstone National Park

Hunting Base Layers

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Your base layer decides whether you stay dry on the climb and warm on the sit. Two merino layers chosen on review reputation, from a heavyweight hoodie for cold glassing to a light value zip top.

Photo: National Park Service (NPS / Jacob W. Frank, Yellowstone National Park) via Wikimedia Commons, public domain. Credits

The Picks

Fit a base layer snug but not tight; it has to touch skin to move sweat.

Women's Core Merino 220 Half-Zip: Out of Stock at OpticsPlanet

Merino Weight By Conditions

Match the merino weight to the hunt.
ConditionsMerino weightWhy
Long hikes in, 30s FLightweight merino (about 145 to 150 g)Moves sweat fast on the climb; add warmth on top when you stop.
All-day still-hunting, 20s to 30s FMidweight merino (about 200 to 250 g)Enough warmth to wear alone on the move, light enough to layer.
Long glassing sits, teens F and belowHeavyweight merino (300 g and up)Holds warmth when you stop moving for hours.
Cold mornings, warm afternoonsLight base plus a heavier hoodie in the packTwo thin layers adjust better than one thick one.

The Base Layer Is One Piece of The System

The cold-weather layering guide covers insulated mid layers and vests, and the cold-weather rain jacket guide covers the shell that keeps it all dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why merino for a cold-weather elk hunt?

Merino keeps much of its warmth when damp, resists odor over a multi-day hunt, and moves sweat off your skin on the climb so you are not chilled when you stop to glass.

What merino weight do I need?

Lightweight (about 145 to 150 g) for hard hikes in, midweight (about 200 to 250 g) for most cold-weather days, and heavyweight (300 g and up) for long, cold sits. Many hunters carry a light and a heavy piece and swap through the day.

Is merino durable enough?

Pure lightweight merino can wear through at pack straps. Blends with a nylon core add strength.

Do these base layers come in women's cuts?

The Sitka Core Merino 330 Hoodie has a women's version with their own button and price.

More: cold-weather layering guide, elk hunting boots, season gear and 2027 draw application deadlines.

See the cold-weather glassing vest guide: a Top pick, Solid pick and Best value pick, chosen on review reputation, with dated prices.

See the cold-weather insulated jacket guide: a Top pick, Solid pick and Best value pick, chosen on review reputation, with dated prices.

See the cold-weather neck gaiter guide: a quiet windproof pick, chosen on review reputation, with dated prices.

Bull elk in golden grass at sunset below the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Great Sand Dunes, Colorado

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Photo: National Park Service (Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve) via Wikimedia Commons, public domain. Credits

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