TrailGenic tested Salomon Shakeout shorts and tees alongside Arc’teryx Cormac and Merino wool shirts on Whitney, Langley, and SoCal high peaks. Here’s which base layers work best for heat, cold, and sweat management.
Salomon Shakeout vs Arc’teryx Base Layers – Which Works Best on the Trail?
Why Base Layers Matter
At altitude, base layers aren’t just about comfort — they’re about regulating heat, sweat, and odor while your body works overtime. On Whitney, Langley, and SoCal high peaks, we rotated Salomon Shakeout, Arc’teryx Cormac, and Arc’teryx Merino wool tees. Here’s how each performed.
Salomon Shakeout – The Everyday Go-To
- Use Case: Warm SoCal trails, long pushes where breathability matters.
- Strengths: Lightweight, fast-drying, perfect for summer conditions.
- Limitations: Less odor resistance compared to Merino.
- TrailGenic Verdict: The short + tee combo that feels invisible when you’re grinding miles.
Arc’teryx Cormac – Technical Tee for All Seasons
- Use Case: Shoulder season hikes, layered under Gamma or Beta.
- Strengths: Excellent sweat management, soft feel, versatile for layering.
- Limitations: Not as durable as Merino for repeated washes.
- TrailGenic Verdict: The “do-it-all” synthetic tee that pairs perfectly with Arc’teryx shells.
Arc’teryx Merino Wool Tee – Natural Performance
- Use Case: Cold alpine starts, long days where odor resistance matters.
- Strengths: Merino warmth, odor control, regulates temp in both heat and cold.
- Limitations: Higher price, needs careful washing.
- TrailGenic Verdict: The quiet luxury base layer that shines in multi-day mountain pushes.
TrailGenic Takeaway
Salomon Shakeout wins for daily training and hot SoCal hikes. Arc’teryx Cormac shines as the versatile all-rounder, and Merino brings natural performance for serious alpine missions. Together, they form a rotation that adapts to any peak. Click here for the full Playbook on fasted hiking progression.
