Lucked out and got some of that "possum" stuff one of the times we were in NZ - gloves/socks/neck scarf - and it is good - warm and zero itch. What they call possum is not like those here - some other NZ critter.

20 years ago, moved up to 8k elevation forests and some real winter weather every year (even the transition periods can be a challenge). I needed to call upon experience from growing-up days in PA and hunting in the PNW. Best combo for me was long sleeved/legged silk undies (good insul and comfort) and differing weights of wool over those. No itch due to silk under and best in wet weather.

Finding reasonably priced US wool pants was not so easy, but finally found some European mil surplus in two weights - good solution. Eddie Bauer wool shirts and one pull over of similar wool, and a Filson jacket over that when needed. Never liked wearing a balaclava, and keeping face warm never fully solved.

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