Heavier base layer or mid-weight mid layer?
 

So I have a Minus33 718 and 719 light weight base layer set, and it was 12 degrees today. Wearing a Pearl Izumi wind/rain jacket as an outer layer, and still somewhat cold.

My options are:

• Heavier base layer, either another Minus33 or an Ibex or IceBreaker
• Mid layer, i.e. some sort of mid-weight sweater thing?

I don't know where to get a mid layer from, though. Minus33 stuff seems to be all base layers, and then an extra heavy full zip jacket type thing:

http://www.minus33.com/catalog/men-s...t-full-zip/708

There's stuff like this, but it's just a heavier base layer and not really made to stack:

http://www.minus33.com/catalog/men-s...rtleneck/712NC

Ibex seems to sell some stuff but it's far more expensive.

What would you do? Just get a heavier base layer, or look for something to go between that and the wind jacket?

12 degrees ... C or F? Big difference.

What about getting a basic long-sleeved jersey? When the temperature starts getting a little bit cooler, I will usually wear a polypro base layer with a long-sleeved jersey over the top. Torpedo 7 has long-sleeved jerseys with a windproof layer in front which helps with the warmth factor. Then I wear a vest or jacket over that depending on the sun, wind, etc.

Even cooler and I'll do polypro, then merino wool, then the long-sleeved jersey, and then jacket. Cold ... and I'll add a fleece layer in between the long-sleeved jersey and jacket. It's all about layers.

I actually prefer polypro to merino wool as a base layer, and you should be able to pick up polypro at Sierra Trading Post or Anaconda/MEC/Decathlon/REI. You might even be able to get it at Walmart or Canadian Tire or similar places ... maybe ... it might be worth a look.

12C. I just switched from some sort of synthetic thing that I was wearing to stay cool in the summer.

Midlayer is the cheapest and most versatile way to improve insulation. A long sleeved jersey is ideal, it doesnt need to be a fancy one, the material of midlayers is much less important than that of base or shell layers.
A neck zip is useful but a rear pocket (under the shell) is of little use.
My winter gear involves a merino baselayer, polyester jersey, woollen sweater and wind/waterproof.

At 55F, I'd go with a long sleeve Ibex jersey (looks like your Minus 33 "heavy"), and possibly knee warmers with shorts. When it starts getting chilly, then I'll start looking at cool weather clothes. YMMV.

You need to be cool when you walk out the door, or you'll be sweating and really cold shortly thereafter!