Testing: Bergans 1965 Fjellrapp Lady Shirt
Size: M
Size range: XS to XL.
Colour: Light Primula purple
Other colours: Black, Navy Melange/Red, Primula Purple Striped
Weight: M: 185g
Fabric: 100% Merino
RRP: €60
Further info: Bergans of Norway
Bergans 1965 Fjellrapp Lady Shirt claims:
The packaging says: “Bergans has been the preferred partner of polar expeditions for more tha a century. This pioneering spirit is still wiht us today, as we aim to make the very best equipment for adventurers. Our underwear collection in 100% Merino wool achieves the optimum balance between comfort and function:
- Soft and comfortable against the skin
- High insulation function when it's cold
- Wicking and colling when it's hot
- No odour
- Athletic fit and extended back
- Flatlock seams in contrasting colours
- 210 g/m² Merino wool that offers a baselayer weighing 185g
- Perfect for outdoor versatility.
What I like about Bergans 1965 Fjellrapp baselayer
This baselayer is nice and long. I am tall-ish, slim and have long arms! I hate baselayers that leave my wrists and hips open to the elements but this baselayer certainly doesn’t do this. In fact, I was able to easily tuck the baselayer into my knickers (sorry for the detail on this but there is more to come!)
The fit is lovely. I am usually a 10 and the M is perfect. It is tight but not too tight and effectively creates a layer of warmth between my skin and the fabric.
Despite this being a lightweight baselayer I have been impressed by its warmth. I have walked, run and cycled in the Bergans baselayer and have felt my core body temperature has been comfortable (even when temperatures have dropped). I like that you hardly feel as though you’re wearing a baselayer because it is so light yet it still keeps you warm.
Also, in the interests of this kit review, I have worn the baselayer many times without washing it. Amazingly there is not a single whiff of BO. Even my daughter who wasn’t keen to do so, gave the top a sniff and reported is still smelt nice and woolly and not of sweat. She has complained before about me “whiffing a bit after exercise”.
I love the colour range, especially the stripey baselayer.
What I’m not so keen on
You either like the smell of wool or you don’t. This Merino baselayer is the most "wool-smelling" that I have tested and I don’t mind it but others might not like it. I imagine a few washes will get rid of the wool smell anyway.
I always find new Merino to be a bit itchy. I have quite sensitive skin so it might be my skin but I do find myself scratching my skin a bit in Merino baselayers. This usually goes after a couple of washes though and is a small issue when compared to the amazing warmth offer by natural Merino fabrics.
I found that when I stopped exercising the baselayer didn’t dry out quite as quickly as I’d hoped. In fact, my back felt pretty damp until I was able to undress and get a hot shower. It wasn't soaking wet and it was only the back but this could cause a problem if you're out for a long hike and need to stay warm when you stop.
Summary review of Bergans 1965 Fjellrapp baselayer
(Scored out of 10)
Female fit:9
Warmth:9
Moisture management: 7
Whiff:10
Does what it says on the label:7 (lost points for the itching and a bit of back dampness)
Price:7
Where to buy?: I did a Google shopping search and found Berg fest and Outdoors Sports 24. Outdoor Kit, Nordic Life and Elite Mountain Supplies also sell Bergans products. I can’t vouch for these sites but that’s what Google threw up.
Note: This article was restored from the archives. It's published creation date is inaccurate.