When I think of wool I think of itchy, scratchy and ugly grandma sweaters, I do not think of performance apparel. Listen up though, SmartWool isn't your grandma's wool sweater.
I received Smartwool's women's Microweight crew (in short- and long-sleeve versions) over the summer. As I sweated through sweltering long runs the shirts sat on my counter mocking me with thoughts of cooler weather. What a tease. I knew I was going to have to wait until winter to test these out as even the short-sleeved version was too hot above 60 degrees.
Heeeeeeeeello winter. (As I write this, the D.C. area is expected to get two more feet of snow, starting this afternoon.)
The first real test was a 5-hour trail run in the mountains. Projected forecast: Temps in the mid-60s, sunshine and general awesomeness. Actual weather: 39 degrees and hurricane-strength winds. Thankfully, as an afterthought, I'd thrown the long-sleeve crew in my pack.
While the crew didn't block the wind (A wind vest is now on my must-have list) it did just about everything else. I layered the crew over a Mountain Hardwear Conditioning S/S top (review to follow) and found I was plenty warm despite the biting wind. The top wicked moisture away and kept my core warm and dry. As temperatures climbed to a balmy 40 degrees I found myself almost too hot.
The crew is extremely lightweight, and works well as a base layer or top layer. The 100% SmartWool Jersey knit only weighs about 5.68 oz. Its probably best suited at temperatures below 40, otherwise, be prepared to sizzle.
The only thing that could make this top better would be the addition of monkey thumbs for a little added warmth and snugglyness. It runs true to size, and fits close to the body. In this case snug is good, it'll help the technical wool wick better, and won't be too bulky when worn as a base layer.
And as a bonus, these tops don't scream athletic wear, so feel free to throw on this toasty top for everyday use. No one will know you're wearing outdoor gear.
Speaking of SmartWool … No one told me they made socks. And no one told me they were incredible. So now I'm telling you: They make socks … they are incredible. Buy them. Use them. Love them.
I tried my PhD Outdoor Light Minis (light cushion, 76% wool/23% Nylon/1% Elastic) during a fall 50k with multiple stream crossings.
[Note: I also have the PhD Outdoor Ultra Light Minis, which have a lower wool to nylon ratio and theoretically less cushion, but frankly, I can't tell the difference between the two.]
I tip-toed across the first stream crossing to keep my feet dry. On the second crossing I wasn't so nimble and splashed in almost up to my knees. I was not please to be only six miles into a 31 mile race in wet socks. But surprise, surprise. Not even two miles later my socks were dry, my feet were happy and I was in love with this sock. Other runners even complimented me on my 'smart' (hehe) choice of footwear. Socks with a fan club? Apparently so.
I will never do a long trail run without them; they're cushy, cozy, warm and wonderful. And did I mention blister-free runs? Try the socks. You'll love them too.
Sara Davidson is an ultramarathoner and our resident women's running gear destroyer.
