Field Test: GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and Basin Merino Bottom on Humpback Trail, Virginia

Humpback Trail in Virginia is a popular hike, known for its steep inclines and breathtaking views from the summit. Recently, we had the chance to test the GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and Basin Merino Bottom on a particularly cool, windy day atop this trail. As any seasoned hiker knows, staying comfortable in unpredictable weather is critical, and these merino wool layers proved their worth during the trek.

The Challenge: Cool Winds at Elevation

Hiking Humpback Trail is not for the faint-hearted, with its 1,200-foot elevation gain in just under two miles. It was a cloudy day with variable winds. At lower elevations, the temperature was cool but manageable. However, the wind picked up once we reached the exposed summit, and the temperature dropped significantly. It’s the kind of scenario that can quickly chill you if you’re not properly dressed, but the GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and Bottom worked flawlessly in fit and comfort.

The Performance of the GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie

The GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie was the real MVP of this hike. As I started my ascent, I wore a thin, long-sleeved performance shirt as an outer layer. This proved to be the perfect garment during the ascent. At the summit, the wind was relentless, quickly drying my sweat and cooling me down. I took the Basin clothing out of my pack and put them on. I immediately noticed the hoodie’s fitted hood provided a surprising amount of warmth without the bulk of a heavy jacket.

The merino wool’s natural insulation kicked in, keeping me warm without overheating, which was especially helpful as I crawled over a few more boulders to take in the views and snap some photos. The hood stayed in place even in the gusts, and I didn’t have to worry about adjusting it every few minutes.

Wind Resistance and Breathability

Despite the winds, the GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and the GOHUNT Basin Merino Bottom shielded both of us from the brunt of the chill. While not fully windproof, the merino wool did a great job of cutting down on the wind’s bite while maintaining breathability. I never felt clammy, even after working up a sweat on the climb. As the wind picked up, the flatlock seams and close fit prevented any draft from sneaking in, which made a huge difference at the exposed summit.

The Performance of the GOHUNT Basin Merino Bottom

The GOHUNT Basin Merino Bottom also performed well at the summit. The bottoms feature full-length leg YKK zippers and a Velcro waist closure, making it easy to put them on and take off without removing my boots. The snug but comfortable fit made it easy to layer under my athletic shorts. As the temperature dropped near the top, the bottoms kept my legs warm without adding bulk or restricting movement. The Merino bottoms wicked away moisture effectively. I never felt overheated or sticky, which is always a concern when climbing and moving in cooler weather. The wide waistband stayed in place, and I didn’t have to adjust it while exploring the overlook. The 85% merino wool and 15% nylon blend provided durability without sacrificing the softness and performance of merino.

The athletic fit of both garments ensured that they stayed close to my body, optimizing their thermal regulation and wicking capabilities. This is key when hiking at elevation, where the temperature can drop quickly, and the wind can become a factor. The hoodie’s ability to layer easily under a jacket added to its versatility, making it perfect for the cool, unpredictable weather at the summit.

Ideal Conditions for the GOHUNT Basin Merino Layers

The cool, windy conditions atop Humpback Trail provided the perfect test for these merino wool layers. The GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and Bottom truly excel in environments where the temperature fluctuates, and wind becomes a concern. Whether you're hiking in the early morning, late evening, or reaching exposed summits, these pieces keep you comfortable without overheating or adding unnecessary bulk.

The GOHUNT GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and the GOHUNT Basin Merino Bottom performed impressively on Humpback Trail. These garments provided the warmth, moisture management, and comfort we needed to tackle the trail’s challenges. For anyone planning to hike in similar conditions, especially where the wind is a factor, I highly recommend adding these merino wool layers to your gear lineup.

The combination of temperature regulation, odor resistance, and wind protection makes them a smart choice for any cool-weather adventure. Whether you're scaling a mountain or embarking on a multi-day hunting trip, the GOHUNT Basin Merino Hoodie and Bottom will keep you comfortable every step of the way.