Silk

I’ve used SilkSkins for decades as a base layer for skiing. It has certainly worked fine for that. I haven’t used it for backpacking, though.

used silk tops and long johns when working outdoors in winter–subjective not sientific view–very warm for first day—second day not so warm–my theory was that the skins natural oils stopped the silk from insulating–gone over to icebreaker- no such problems–however i did like the silk –very light -easy to wash easy to dry–was thinking of trying again as emergency extra warmth over icebreaker–anybody got any thoughts on this

The purpose of the underwear layer in cool / cold weather is to provide some warmth and to keep moisture away from the skin by transporting it to the next layer by wicking, or capillary, action. Materials used in underwear layer and their % of weight in moisture absorption:

Best (polyester-.5%, polypropylene-.3%, and chlorofiber-.3%).

2nd best (acrylics-2.5%, silk-5%, nylon-4.5%, and wool 17%). The BPL staff has high regard for wool as a base layer. They report that it keeps moisture away from the skin, not causing flash cooling, and not stinking. On the down side, wool doesn’t wear as well as the best class and for the same thickness/weight as the best class it will not be as warm after you have perspired. Silk is very comfortable against the skin but it is expensive and absorbs more water than the best class.

Worst (cotton-8% and rayon 11%).

I have been wearing silk for years. I usually just use it after hiking but it helps to cut the wind in colder weather. I think of it as backup dry clothing. It is for spring and fall–not winter. Mary