hiking shirt over base layer

then why do you care about a base layer?  just wear your shirt.

then why do you care about a base layer?

-sweat wicking

-odor buildup in a synthetic shirt over multi-day trips

-chill

-more comfortable than a shirt for sleeping

As I am from a country in Europe where the population density is almost 2x that in Italy, I think I do know what you mean. And, to be honest, I just don’t care what people, who I meet on the trail and probably never will see again, think. My priority is taking care of myself and not what others might think.

Now, I know Italy as a country where it’s generally pretty warm (depending of course on where you go so where in Italy is that mostly ?) and for that I would only hike in a cool, synthetic, loose baselayer and sometimes a windshirt. Odor buildup may be an issue, but generally I don’t see the problem.

ExOfficio Insect Shield Halo Shirt. Super durable, UPF 30, quick drying, great pockets, well ventilated, bug repellent. Works in extreme heat and extreme cold.

Thanks Marc T, I’ll look for it! I knew about Ex officio nice underwear, their shirts look promising as well!

Woubeir, nice to know that Italy is not the only crowded country in Europe. I agree about letting others opinion out of the equation:) I just didn’t mention that I’m a sound recordist, I got interested in ultralight backpacking ’cause I have to bring microphones and stuff which is heavy enough to push me lightening the rest of the gear I have to carry. Sometimes people look at me in strange ways already for the fact that I’m setting up microphones in a forest.. I just prefer keeping a low profile, that’s it:)

If you already get strange looks now, smelling or not won’t change that. :-)

For myself, I still wear old capilene silkweight shirts without odor control; a loose fit btw. All looks normal and the only thing that people might disturb, is the odor (particularly after days or even weeks). Now, I also have several shirts with Polygiene Odor Control and while there is still a smell after use, it’s definitely less than with shirts without (in my case).

If you’re based in Europe, just in case you don’t already know it, I suggest you to check As Tucas garments, http://www.astucas.com/en/products/cabietos-t-shirt. Marco is very nice and responsive. I’ve been using his merino beanie all fall and winter and it feels great when hiking, even after repeated washes it shows less usure, after more or less the same life span, than my pricey Smart Wool long sleeved base layer. I actually never tried Polygiene Odor Control polyester though..

Attila, Marco A. Sanchez  who started As Tucas has been a member of BPL for over 6 years

I guess it depends on when you want to use it and your metabolism. For me, a merino-shirt is not an option outside winter and perhaps late fall and early spring.

And I know As Tucas and I’ve been in contact with Marco already. Sounds great. ;-)