Gear Review: Watson’s Double Layer Mid-weight Base Layers

watsons double layer

I tried a set of Watson’s mid-weight long sleeve top and long john bottoms from their “Double Layer” collection during a day of skiing at Jackson Hole.  The weather conditions were cloudy and windy with temperatures in the low 30s. Personally, I am always freezing cold while skiing, especially in-between runs while resting on the chairlifts, and I was eager to try a product that claimed to be not only soft and moisture-wicking, but also very warm.

The Canada-based company claims its Double Layer collection is “designed for exceptional warmth during outdoor activities” by combining a “soft inner layer and a warm and durable outer layer” to “trap air to form a thermal barrier.” The material is a blend of 60 percent cotton and 40 percent polyester, which made me wonder if this product was really made for sweating in as cotton tends to get very cold when wet, but I gave it a shot anyway.

With 10 inches of fresh powder on the slopes and being my first ski day of the season, you can bet I was working hard making turns and controlling my speed down Jackson’s famous steep runs, even on the groomers, so I didn’t have any trouble staying warm while in action. As mentioned earlier, I usually get very cold sitting on the chair lifts, especially after a sweaty workout, but I was surprisingly comfortable.  It was very windy but these base layers definitely kept the chill from reaching my skin, especially on my legs where I was just wearing the Double Layer long johns and my waterproof ski pants (on top I chose to layer Watson’s heavy-weight fleece over the Double Layer long sleeve base and under my jacket).

After skiing I did notice that I wasn’t drying out as quickly as normal, however, legitimizing my concern about this product’s moisture-wicking capabilities. But, because this product is so darn soft I was still very comfortable posted up on a barstool for a few hours après ski.

I usually find most base layers feel too tight and restricting, and I usually can’t wait to take them off at the end of the day. However, the flattering design (cute pink stitching) and comfortable fit of the Double Layer set were attractive and cozy enough that I found myself wanting to wear the top as a sweater alternative throughout my trip and back home, just for bopping around town and lounging around the house.

Pros: Super soft, very warm and nice design and fit

Cons: Limited moisture-wicking capability

For more information on Watson’s, visit http://www.mywatsons.ca.

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