Stio Basis Stretch Merino Crew Baselayer
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Any outdoor enthusiast knows that the key to keeping the chill out starts with a high-quality baselayer. The Stio Basis Stretch Merino crew absolutely falls into this category. This baselayer has been unbelievably comfortable and warm and has earned its keep as my go-to baselayer this winter.
Stio Basis Stretch Merino Crew Materials
The Basis Stretch merino crew top is new to the women’s line from Stio and is made of fine jersey merino wool. The combination of merino and spandex make it incredibly soft while offering just the right amount of stretch. The blend of materials make the Stio Basis Stretch Merino crew insulating, breathable, and moisture wicking. I’ve worn this baselayer on chilly powder days and skinning on spring-like days and can attest to the fact that it is extremely warm, but the breathability and wicking properties allowed me to stay cool and dry while skinning for hours in the sun. After working up a sweat in the backcountry I normally catch a chill and can’t wait to get out of my damp layers, but this seems to dry quick enough that I don’t get too chilly and can hang in it for apres without out shivering.
Stio Basis Stretch Merino seams
Functionality of the Stio Basis Stretch Merino Crew Baselayer
Aside from the performance and functionality of this baselayer, I loved the fit. It has raglan style sleeves, flatlock seams, and athletic, but slim cut make the Stio Basis Stretch Merino baselayer both comfortable and attractive. The length of the top was also spot on so it could be tucked in to pants to keep out the draft, but not so long that there was too much material. I’m not normally a fan of thumbholes, but these were done well. They were placed properly and finished thoughtfully to not dig into the webbing inside my thumb or pull on the sleeves too much.
Stio Basis Stretch Merino baselayer thumbs
As my primary baselayer, I have worn the Stio Basis Stretch Merino crew alone under a shell, and layered under other layers as well. The slim fit and weight make it perfect for layering, but it absolutely stands up on it’s own as well.
Durability
The Stio basis stretch merino crew is built to last. I was between homes while testing this and all of my other baselayers were in storage, so I wore it day after day. It has seen well over a dozen washes and probably twice as many days on the hill. It shows no sign of wear at all. The weight is slightly heavier than other wool baselayers I have which I think helps it keep its shape and provides a bit of extra durability.
Final Thoughts on the Stio Basis Stretch Merino Crew
Overall, I can’t say enough about this baselayer. The warmth, breathability, comfort, and durability are superior to many baselayers I have purchased and tested. I look forward to having the Stio Basis Stretch Merino crew as my go-to baselayer for years to come. It is a great option for anyone looking for an all-around baselayer that can be worn in just about any season to keep out the cold in any situation whether its highly aerobic skinning or riding up a chilly chairlift.
MSRP: $115
The Basis Stretch Merino crew baselayer is available in four colors and sizes extra small through large. For more information visit www.stio.com
