I have core top / bottoms as well as the merino top / bottom. I wear the core more, but pull out the thick merino when temps dip.

 

Big fan of Sitka but use all of the top brands. Also own Stratus and think it is best all-around mid to late season whitetail outer layer.

But I don’t recommend Sitka base layers. Mid layers fine but there are good options from all 3 top brands. I don’t have fanatic hoody but it gets good reviews. I have another Sitka hoody (don’t even know what it’s called) and use it interchangeably with KUIU peleton 240 and FL Klamath as mid layers. On base layers I would only recommend merino from either First Lite or Minus 33.

I do have a couple of Sitka core shirts but don’t use them as base layers - just as warm weather shirt for things like western or spring turkey hunts.

 

I have Sitka and first lite baselayers and prefer first lite as well.
FL furnace > Sitka heavyweight

 

I will mention the Fanatic Hoody is money! Probably my favorite piece of all around Sitka gear.

 

I use Sitka as well and have there core base layers too they are ok but First lite merino is the best imo I like the furnace myself any of there merino base layers are nice and feel the best next to skin for me. I’ve not tried Sitka merino so can’t say but have read they are not as comfortable on the skin I have used kuiu merino base layers while they work they make me itch


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The Fanatic Hoody is hard to beat for a mid layer.

 

If you decide to stay with all Sitka I’d recommend the core long sleeve and the fanatic hoodie. If you want to with merino I’d definitely check out first lite.

 

I love sitka core base layers, actually use them for an outer layer in warm weather. Heavy weight hoody is really nice as well!

 

I have just about every piece of Sitka whitetail stuff made and then some. I look like I belong in a Sitka catalog when I get dressed but honestly whatever base layers you currently use will work just fine, assuming you're happy with them now. I just feel better knowing my base layers and mid layers match the same camo as the outer layers. I had a Sitka buying addiction for about a year. I swear once I get the Delta wading jacket for steelhead fishing I'm all done, I swear....

The fanatic hoodie is great but I much prefer the heavyweight Zip-T because I don't use the hood/facemask or the built in mitts on the fanatic. If you like the facemask/hood idea go with the fanatic hoodie, They are basically made form the same material/weight.

 

Definitely like the First Lite base layers better, particularly the Furnace series

 

I like Sitka base layers. I use the mid weight layers and we get down to the teens here

First Lite furnace base layers severely disappointed me

 

What didn't you like about the First Lite Furnace base layers ?

 

I just bought the furnace with hopes of it being a touch warmer than my Klamath and core heavy weight. I hope I’m not disappointed.

 

I'd say core heavyweight is the winner. The furnace is not as elastic as the Sitka, so not as comfortable.

 

From my experience with the stratus if it’s in the 20’s you’re gonna need a puffy jacket.


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I always found layering my jet stream vest helped a lot