The Artilect Redstone 185 GSM Wool LS Baselayer Crew Shirt delivers a well-balanced mix of warmth, comfort, and practicality that will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Positioned as a midweight wool baselayer, it aims to combine the natural performance benefits of merino with thoughtful construction and a clean, functional design. After wearing it for a variety of conditions and activities throughout the winter and into spring, here’s an in-depth take on its strengths and small drawbacks.

• Materials: Nuyarn 185gsm Jersey: 82% Merino wool, 18% Nylon
• Weight: 7.4 oz (Men’s large)
• Fit: Easy fit (not too roomy, not too athletic)

Material and Feel

The standout feature is the 185 GSM merino-blend fabric. At this weight, it hits a sweet spot: noticeably warmer than lightweight 150 GSM tops while remaining less bulky than heavyweight options. The fabric drapes nicely and feels soft against the skin from the first wear. It’s not the ultra-fine merino that feels like silk, but it’s very comfortable with minimal itch, even when worn directly next to the skin for longer periods. The knit has a nice density that suggests durability while still offering excellent breathability.

The breathability is on par with Patagonia’s original synthetic Capilene jerseys, which are no longer made.

Thermal Performance and Breathability

Thermally, the Redstone 185 performs well as a versatile midlayer or standalone baselayer in cool-to-cold conditions. It traps heat effectively when used under a shell or insulated jacket for winter hiking or skiing. At moderate exertion levels, the fabric breathes and wicks moisture away from the skin, keeping you dry and preventing chill when you stop. In damp, cold conditions, its natural odor resistance and moisture management are additional benefits; even after a full day of activity, the shirt stays fresh.

Materials: Nuyarn

Nuyarn is not a typical spun yarn. Instead of tightly twisting fibers together, the process wraps merino fibers around a high-tenacity nylon core. This creates a fabric that is loftier, more elastic, and significantly stronger than conventional merino of the same weight. Because the fibers are less compacted, moisture has more surface area to evaporate from, so your skin stays drier. The breathability is on par with Patagonia’s original synthetic Capilene jerseys, which are no longer made, but were awesome.

And when it comes to washing, I treat my Nuyarn wool clothes just like my 100% synthetic garments, washing them in cold water and drying them on high, without any noticeable shrinkage. If you do your laundry at small-town laundromats, this is a must-have.

Fit and Sizing

The fit is comfortable and not too close through the torso and arms to be constrictive, but not billowing either. Sleeve length and torso length are proportionate for most body types; cuffs sit comfortably at the wrist without riding up during movement.

Construction

Construction quality is solid. Seams are flat and minimally intrusive, which reduces chafing under packs or straps. The neckline is a classic crew that sits flat and retains warmth; there’s no excess fabric around the collar that could bunch under jackets. Stitching appears sturdy with no loose threads after repeated wear and wash cycles. The shirt’s overall build indicates it should handle regular use for seasons without premature wear. I’ve used it frequently during the entire winter, and it’s held up well.

The Redstone 185 has become one of my go-to baselayers.

Recommendation

The Artilect Redstone 185 GSM Wool Long Sleeve Baselayer is a dependable, well-made midweight baselayer that excels in cold-to-cool conditions. It offers excellent moisture management, natural odor resistance, a comfortable fit, and durable construction. If you want a single versatile baselayer for hiking, skiing, travel, and everyday cold-weather wear, the Redstone 185 is a strong choice. It is pricey, though, and can be difficult to get at a discount. REI often has Artilect garments in the outlet, where you can pick them up at a bargain price.

Disclosure: Artilect donated a shirt for review.