Rated 5 out of 5 by MarineArcticInstructor Merino, Proven excellence.
There are basically 3 types of underwear:
Cotten: Super Comfortable, durable, cold when wet, hypothermia when active.
Synthetic: Polyester, warm, wicking, dry, warm when wet, smelly and not meant for multi-day trips. Easily melts to skin in event of fire, cigarette burns, or combat.
Natural: Awesome.
Merino wool keeps you dry. It wicks sweat from your body and allows it to evaporate quickly. Just like polyester except you can wear it day after day without a mildew or body odor smell. Merino stays fresh day after day. Week after week actually. Merino will burn, it will not melt to your skin. Merino will wash clean and stay fresh time after time. Merino will wear nicely, and even when worn out, will not loose effectiveness. This middleweight merino is very cost effective compared to named brands. I have tried many brands but and completely satisfied will this version. I have 4 sets and they all fit and have not shrunk, even when washed it hot water.
I highly recommend merino over synthetic (Polyester) even though a lot more expensive. You will get many more useful years out of merino then polyester, polypropylene, or silk.
January 24, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by MIJOE About right.
Quality is better than some of the cheaper merino baselayers. Also, a little thicker (and that is a good thing). The premium merino baselayers might be better, but at their price point, I'll never know (seriously some baselayers cost as much as a high end wool coat). So the LL Bean Cresta midweight merino woll baselayer is a good middle of the road value for a 100% merino wool baselayer.
Slighly more itch than other merino baselayers, but very slight. Also, just might be newer then my other wools, as often the itch decreases with use. Also I noted in other reviews that the red/black version was slighly more itchy, so perhaps when I order a black, this will be a non-issue.
Appears to shrink just a little after washing, then returns to size after wearing an hour or so.
My review might appear negative, but I'm very happy with the product and plan on buying 3 to 5 more before next hunting season. With patience, I'll get them during a good sale. I have been shopping the website every day waiting for a deal, that is how much I like them.
Don't discount the thumb holes, even if you never plan on using them to cover your hands. They are nice to have in a pinch, and help keep sleeves in place when putting on other potential layers.
Would have been 4 stars, as there are slighly better merino baselayers out there. Went with 5 because I'm counting on LL Bean warrenty. I can find other merino wool baselayers of about the same quality discounted to a far more temptng price, but are not backed by LL Bean.
January 5, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by AMaineDad pricey but comfy & warm
$65 for an undershirt is way more than I usually spend, but it's amazingly comfortable and keeps me warm - and that's what I was looking for.
I'll be wearing this every day I'm spending time outside.
December 16, 2012
Rated 3 out of 5 by NatureBoy123 Not what I expected...
I ordered this layer after favorable reviews......but I was disappointed when I received it. It is thin, not what I had expected. The temperature was about 61F. I was still cold, and had to put on a jacket to keep me warm....
December 13, 2012
Rated 4 out of 5 by BillfromNY Another Oversized Neck Opening
I bought a medium tall, for which the collar is supposed to fit a 15.5" neck. Instead, the collar on the medium seems too large, more like for a 16 or 16.5" neck.
When I wear it under a shirt, the front of the oversized collar is so far from my throat, that I can fit four fingers of both hands between the turtle neck and my throat without stretching the fabric.
And making it look even worse, is that the loose fabric in the front of the turtleneck takes on a wavy, wobbly "W" shape.
Worn without a shirt, the extra material in the collar is more evenly distributed returning the turtleneck to its original round shape, and the excess material is less noticeable.
Except for the collar, I really like it, and wish I could keep it--but I will probably send it back.
December 9, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by PD63 Cool Wool :-)
I had bought one of these at one of the LL Bean stores and didn't really know what to expect from Merino Wool ( I'm a first time user of this material). I was so impressed and happy with the results that I immediately ordered a second one online. This is the perfect base layer. It's light, warms up pretty well with a second layer (it stays cool if you wear it without a second layer) and it does not itch at all. This was definitely a great find. Also, LL Bean's online order and delivery processing was very swift and fast. I am now a LL Bean Member and so far I am impressed with their products and services.
November 22, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by gmhtosa Good base layer
I am 6'1" 180lbs with an athletic cut and a medium fits perfectly. Its a super soft non-itchy material and seems to be of very good quality. I haven't washed it yet, but I think it's going to last a long time.
October 24, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by BirdManFromCA Great Item
Glad that I purchased this item. It is relatively light weight. The sleeves are too long for me so I had them shortened. It will be good weight for the spring, fall and for backpacking in the Sierra.
July 28, 2012
Rated 4 out of 5 by dontliveneartownshopper after midnight lounge
It's nippy enough where I live that it
makes more sense to wear warm clothes
in the early mornings than to use fossil
fuels and the Cresta Wool zip top and
pants are sensuously warm, and a great
way to hug oneself.....of course the rest
of the attire consists of fleece pants and
shirt, wicked good mocs and heavy socks
all from my new favorite store....LLBean
April 25, 2012
Rated 4 out of 5 by DubXion Great so far
I've been using this for my bike commute in 20-40 degree weather. It's great, warm, doesn't stink, so I can wash it just once a week. Dense knit which is nice. Haven't used for skiing yet, but might be too heavy as a layering piece except for very cold conditions.
Fits a little on the loose side, but after a wash and light cycle in the dryer, it shrank just enough to be nicely fitted for biking.
March 14, 2012
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