Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s arrives as a promise of warmth without the bulk – a crucial factor for anyone operating in cold conditions where layering is key. Under Armour has built a solid reputation for athletic and tactical apparel, so I was keen to see how this base layer stacked up against competitors. I was on the hunt for a base layer that would provide exceptional warmth during long static periods, like deer hunting in a tree stand, while also being breathable enough for active movements, like hiking into the backcountry.

My search began last year after a particularly brutal late-season elk hunt where I was constantly battling the cold, even with multiple layers. I had tried several different base layers, including a Merino wool option and a synthetic blend from another well-known brand, but neither quite hit the mark. The Merino wool was comfortable but seemed to lose its insulating properties when wet, while the synthetic blend felt clammy and didn’t provide enough warmth for extended periods in sub-freezing temperatures. The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s intrigued me with its promise of infrared technology retaining body heat.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the soft feel of the fabric. The brushed interior felt immediately comfortable against my skin. The mock neck was a welcome addition, providing extra coverage and protection from the cold. My initial impression was that the material felt lighter than expected, raising a slight concern about its actual warmth in truly frigid conditions, however, I was eager to put it to the test.

Compared to the REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew Top and the Smartwool Intraknit Merino 200 Crew, the Under Armour option felt slightly less bulky. The REI base layer felt similar, but lacked the mock neck. The Smartwool felt great but I was keen to try a synthetic for more demanding tactical activities. My decision to go with the Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s ultimately came down to the promise of the ColdGear Infrared technology and the mock neck design, hoping it would provide a superior combination of warmth and performance for my needs. I was excited, yet cautious, hoping it would live up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s was during a late-season coyote hunt in the high desert of eastern Oregon. The temperature hovered around 25 degrees Fahrenheit with a biting wind chill. I spent several hours sitting motionless, glassing for coyotes from a ridgeline.

The base layer performed admirably, keeping me surprisingly warm despite the freezing temperatures and wind. I did not need time to get used to it. I noticed the material wicked away moisture effectively when I was actively hiking into my chosen location. After the coyote hunt, I noticed some minor pilling around the collar.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple hunting trips, hiking excursions, and even a few days at the shooting range in cold weather, the Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s has proven to be a reliable performer. It has shown only minimal signs of wear and tear. After numerous washes, the fabric hasn’t lost its shape or softness, and the Infrared technology seems to be holding up.

The base layer is easy to care for. I simply toss it in the washing machine with my other athletic apparel and tumble dry on low heat. Compared to my previous experiences with other base layers, the Under Armour option seems to retain its warmth more effectively in damp conditions. This product certainly outperforms my older base layers, which is great.

Breaking Down the Features of Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s

Specifications

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s is constructed from a dual-layer fabric comprised of 87% Polyester and 13% Elastane. This blend provides a combination of warmth, stretch, and moisture-wicking properties. The base layer features ColdGear Infrared technology.

The ColdGear Infrared lining utilizes a soft, thermo-conductive inner coating designed to absorb and retain body heat. The 4-way stretch material allows for a full range of motion, essential for tactical applications. The fabric is designed to wick sweat and dry quickly. The mock neck construction provides added coverage and protection from the elements. These specs matter because they directly influence the comfort, performance, and durability of the base layer in demanding outdoor conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s excels at its primary function: providing warmth in cold weather. The ColdGear Infrared technology does seem to make a noticeable difference. It keeps you warm longer. The material’s ability to wick away sweat is also a significant plus. It prevents that clammy feeling that can lead to discomfort and even hypothermia in extreme conditions.

The base layer’s strengths lie in its warmth, comfort, and moisture-wicking capabilities. Its biggest weakness is its susceptibility to pilling. It meets and exceeds my expectations based on its advertised features.

Design & Ergonomics

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s boasts a streamlined design that fits snugly without feeling constricting. The build quality is generally good. The stitching is solid, and the materials feel durable. The mock neck provides excellent coverage without being too tight or restrictive.

The base layer is user-friendly. There is no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s should last for several seasons. The fabric is resistant to tearing and abrasion. It’s easy to maintain and care for.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s doesn’t come with any specific accessories. There aren’t many customization options. It is designed to be worn as a base layer.

Pros and Cons of Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s?

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s is perfect for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and anyone who spends extended periods in cold weather. It’s ideal for activities like hiking, hunting, skiing, snowboarding, and winter camping.

Those who require maximum warmth in extreme cold conditions, or who prefer the natural feel of Merino wool, might want to consider other options. No must-have accessories or modifications needed.

Conclusion on Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s

The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of warmth and comfort without the bulk. The ColdGear Infrared technology seems to provide a noticeable boost in heat retention, and the moisture-wicking properties are excellent. While it may not be the warmest base layer on the market, its combination of performance, comfort, and durability makes it a great value for the price.

Considering its overall performance, the price is justified. The Under Armour Tactical ColdGear Infrared Base Mock – Men’s comes highly recommended. If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable base layer for cold-weather activities, give this one a try!