Reliability, if you ask me, tends to be the name of the game when it comes to layering up for fall and winter. In my mind, that means knowing that, say, a certain base layer or sweatshirt is going to get the job done in terms of warmth and rugged style, all without thinking about it too much.

Whether you’re searching for one of the best men’s sweatshirts to wear underneath your favorite trucker jacket, or whether you merely want a cozy, casual layer for fall days at home, Relwen assuredly has you covered with some of the best rugged fall style essentials.

The Ohio-based brand takes a decidedly throwback approach to its highly functional line of menswear, modeling selections off old-school styles worn by the military and hardy outdoorsmen. The Relwen Bi-Waffle Thermal Crew has a touch of both of those categories in its final build, which is precisely the kind of reliability I mentioned earlier. For chilly days and nights, for times when you need a thick yet supple base layer, the Relwen Bi-Waffle Thermal Crew is as solid an option as it gets.

It’s made from sturdy, waffle-knit pre-shrunk cotton for a snug yet flattering fit, and in my experience with Relwen, the fabric won’t pill or give out on you unexpectedly. That’s true of the rest of the Relwen menswear line, which is the kind of durability I appreciate (and I think you will, as well).

On the surface, this design isn’t overly complicated: Just a darn fine thermal crewneck you can wear as a base layer beneath a puffer vest or your favorite Relwen jacket, to name but two wearing occasions. The bonded collar on the Relwen Bi-Waffle Thermal Crew should retain its shape and secure fit over time, and seamless double cuffs also provide a secure fit.

It’s the rare crewneck that’s substantial enough to wear as you would a traditional crewneck sweatshirt, or else thin enough to rock as a base layer, and the Relwen Bi-Waffle Thermal Crew is going to deliver standout warmth and rugged appeal all the way through. Layer up with it now and well into the months ahead, because it can stand up to anything.