Under Armour and Nike Pro -- I was wrong

I had posted earlier that I wasn't sure if the quality of the big brand base layer running apparel would justify the price compared to something like the Target brand gear. I would like to recant that statement.

I received both Under Armour and Nike Pro gear for Christmas, and after several cold weather runs, I must say, I'm very impressed!

Both brands of gear blew me away with how comfortable, durable, and well designed they are. The multi-material construction allows the gear the have some insulation, as well as the wicking dryness.

In comparison, my cheaper stuff seems to be less durable (have had seams rip), less thermal (need more layers to stay warm), and more stinky. Oh, that's something I've come to notice. The technical material in the Target (Champion) base layer stuff tends to give off a strong, weird, synthetic smell -- especially when sweated in. My Nike Pro and Under Armour gear doesn't have the problem.

So, I guess I'm a convert -- and have taken the cool aid. That said, the big brands are still very expensive. $30 for a pair of Under Armour underwear? Ouch!