Winter Warrior 2015! Episode 1: Watson's Performance Base Layer Review

Well.. while we had a hint of the Spring to come a few weeks ago, Winter is back in full force here in Colorado with several snow storms and cooler weather... of course, not as much snow as we would like (Sorry East coast for getting it all!).

So, to celebrate winter, and winter running, this is part 1 of a 4 part Winter Warrior 2015 series! I have a lot of great winter related gear that I've been testing over this season, and looking forward to sharing with you what I've learned.

http://www.mywatsons.ca/home

So.. to kick this series off, I'll start with some base layers.  When it gets nasty cold and windy, a solid base layer can be amazing to keep things warm!

During those nasty days, I've been running (and skiing!) in a Performance base layer combo from Watson's, an active wear company out of Canada.  I had not heard of Watson's before, but was more than happy to put their gear to the test!

http://www.mywatsons.ca/men-winterwear-performance

Uh no... that's not me :-).  But it is the Performance series thermal long sleeve top and pants.  From a spec standpoint, these are considered medium weight, and comprised of a moisture wicking, 4-way stretch spandex material, with an anti-microbial treatment, and a great comfort fit.

Here are a couple of non-professional pics (very), but they give you an idea of the quality of the stitching and the design of the panels. I do like the higher collar as it helps to keep cold out, and almost reaches my beard :-)

The feature I love the most about this line, is the amazing feel of the material on the inside.  I tried to take a picture of it above, but it's hard to see.  You really have to feel it!  It's almost the feel of a sand-washed silk... very warm, very soft, and super comfy.. especially for synthetic materials.  Love it.

So.. how does it perform?  Amazingly well in my opinion.  If this is their medium weight offering, I can't imagine how warm the heavy duty stuff is!  Must be designed to battle harsh Canadian climates!  I loved running in this, and when pairing the base layer pants with the Super XC pants from Sporthill, I feel like I could take on any level of sub zero F temps!

Ok... so what would you spend on staying super warm and comfortable this winter?  That questions leads me to another feature of Watson's that I love... the price!  The top and bottom both retail for $25 Canadian on their website, which you can find HERE.   For those of you in the U.S. that translates roughly to $20 each, which I feel is a great bargain!  So be sure to check them out if you are looking for a great base layer, and check them out on Facebook as well by clicking HERE.

Thanks again for tuning in! Stay warm, and stay tuned for Episode 2 of Winter Warriors 2015, featuring Orange Mud, and Super.Natural!

Happy Trails!

Jeff
http://barefootinclined.com
barefootinclined@gmail.com

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Performance Base Layers for free from Watson's as coordinated by Outdoor PR in consideration for review publication.