[Review] Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Crew by Smartwool

If you invest in a $200 mid layer but are still wearing cotton up against your skin, you’re doing it all wrong! For proper layering for any adventure, the base layer is very important. The Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Crew by Smartwool is a base layer I reach for 9 times out of 10 and I can use it throughout the entire year!

The 250 Base Layer from Smartwool is their warmest base layer and I love it for skiing because I’m always cold but this is also a great standalone layer in the fall and spring. In the summer, on chilly nights camping, I can wear this around camp and then wear it to bed to keep me warm while the temps dip.

This base layer is comfortable no matter if you’re skiing at the resort, backcountry touring with a big pack on, or traversing the high country in the summer with a pack. Not only does it have flatlock seam construction, but there are also panels on the shoulders to avoid having seams sit on the top of your shoulder. If you’ve ever had a pack rub on a seam after a long day in the backcountry, you’ll be able to thoroughly appreciate this design.

If you’ve been around here before, you know that merino wool is probably my number one favorite fiber. Merino is not only warm and super soft up against the skin (and definitely no itch), it also helps to pull sweat away from your skin. Merino is naturally anti-microbial so if you’re doing a lot of traveling, it’s a great fiber to pack.

I do have to say, I feel as though the fit is a little different with this style than with base layers I’ve had in the past. I am usually a size medium in tops and large in outer layers and I went with a medium in the 250 Crew. I’m 5’10 and 155 pounds. The length is great (both arms and torso) and allows for a comfy, all-day tuck in. I just feel as though it isn’t as tight as I would like in the abdomen. I personally would say that if I ordered this top again, I would order it in a small to gain a bit of torso tightness.

If you’re ready to make the merino switch, be sure to look at Smartwool products. If you feel as though the 250 is a bit heavy for you, check out the 150 crew—similar design and features, just a little bit lighter weight. Once you go merino, you won’t want to go back!