An important consideration that is essential for survival out there in the subzero temperatures is underwear that can protect you from the cold and wind. However, I think the most important factor is choosing good quality wicking underwear. When snow hiking and backpacking camping in the winter, it is imperative to wear undergarments made of material that spreads out moisture and dries quickly. Having your next-to-skin clothes damp is not only horribly uncomfortable, it is also extremely dangerous. Luckily, in my search for the ultimate long johns underwear I have discovered the Smartwool Men’s and Women’s underwear, tops and bottoms, which are made from Merino wool. Merino wool, as the name would suggest, comes from the Merino sheep of New Zealand and far surpasses any other wool product. This wool underwear is very different from the old-fashioned scratchy woollen long johns of yesteryear. Merino wool is as soft as cashmere, has an insulating air layer, a non-odorous capability and a natural anti-bacterial property. Another great thing about this product is that it is easy to maintain in that it can be machine washed and tumbled dry. All in all, this product gets a big thumbs-up from me. What do you think? See it here.
