Wool or synthetic?
- Thread starter Erik
- Start date
The new stuff coming seems to be pretty good. As for wool I’ve got to tell you a story.
Back in my hunting days I was in a tree-stand. Had two pair of socks inside my boots.
Thought I would get frostbite. The next time out I did things a little different. One pair of socks, tennis shoes and a pair of wool socks on the outside. Stayed toasty all day.
Yep it’s hard to believe but it worked for me. Forgot to mention that the socks on the outside made less noise while walking. I don’t recommend walking in water very much.
[This message has been edited by jeffer (edited March 14, 2000).]
Back in my hunting days I was in a tree-stand. Had two pair of socks inside my boots.
Thought I would get frostbite. The next time out I did things a little different. One pair of socks, tennis shoes and a pair of wool socks on the outside. Stayed toasty all day.
Yep it’s hard to believe but it worked for me. Forgot to mention that the socks on the outside made less noise while walking. I don’t recommend walking in water very much.
[This message has been edited by jeffer (edited March 14, 2000).]
Wool has two main advantages over synthetics:
1) It insulates even when wet
2) It doesn't burn very easily
Despite these advantages, I tend to avoid wool because it's generally heavier than synthetics and because it itches. I can deal with a little more weight but the itchiness drives me nuts!
1) It insulates even when wet
2) It doesn't burn very easily
Despite these advantages, I tend to avoid wool because it's generally heavier than synthetics and because it itches. I can deal with a little more weight but the itchiness drives me nuts!
if you're going to do the layer thing, then high-tech wicking synthetics are the way to go for the first (underwear) layer; I like Thermax, wicks well, keeps me warm, and doesn't get stinky like plain polypro sometimes does.
for the insulation layer(s), either wool or synthetics are fine. synthetics are typically lighter in weight, wool typically more durable. I often wear a wool shirt (Pendletons) and a fleece hooded sweatshirt.
for wind- and waterproofing, Goretex or equivalent is the way to go.
sock-wise, I like Thermax liners and wool/synthetic outer hiking sox.
for the insulation layer(s), either wool or synthetics are fine. synthetics are typically lighter in weight, wool typically more durable. I often wear a wool shirt (Pendletons) and a fleece hooded sweatshirt.
for wind- and waterproofing, Goretex or equivalent is the way to go.
sock-wise, I like Thermax liners and wool/synthetic outer hiking sox.