Non-thermal thermal

[slparker]

The post concerning merino and its various qualities got me thinking about what I wear. Sure, I wear polypropylene, merino or polyester thermals for various activities but my favorite top is not a thermal. When I go x- country skiing, walking in all climates i wear a north face long sleeve polyester polo. I bought it in WA for thirty bucks in 2006 and it's a honeycomb knit but other wise just a standard polyester, no silver impregnation, no claims of ultra wicking this/wind proof that. It's warm in cold conditions and cool and sun resistant in hot weather... I've worn in in thE NZ mountains, kayaking in WA, walking in tas and skiing on dinner plain... In every condition I've worn it it is suitable. I have no idea why.. In a blizzard with a goretex jacket it keeps me warm, on a thirty plus day it isn't too hot. It's loose on my torso so doesn't really wick but seems to dry quickly and not chill me down. I can only attribute this to the knit not the fabric, as other polyester tops I have aren't particularly impressive. The beauty of this top is i can wear skiing in the blazing sun and when the clouds roll in I can whack a fleece or shell on and stay warm. A polypro or wool shirt in these conditions would be way too hot. Anyway one day soon it will die and I have no idea how I'll replace this versatile top... Anyone else have experience with such a garment?