Thanks for the info AP....

Jim-so true the wool is naturally fire resistant.

Smart Wool....Been running Smartwool for years, both socks and baselayers. The initial experience kept me coming back...but recently the baselayers have been somewhat disappointing from the durability perspective...I have gleaned: this is an inherit issue with the fiber/textile. Still curious as to why I am seeing it now after so many years What I am seeing is that the garments get to a point and just disintegrate, darning is not the solve The use has been uniform, so the fiber issue is sort of mute but the construction is suspect, sorry Rep. That is why I am on the search...for garments that are of the hybrid persuasion, wool for the natural warmth and such and polypro/capalene for the strength and hydrophobic features...woolpower, mountain hardware, and patagonia are the possibilities that I have gathered so far; and woolpower I know very little about both in company and design. Just picked up another set of smartwool for my control in the adventure and discernment.

DB...justa notion...try a second rinse and mind the bug dope. Just a notion mind you. The burn is suspect, and a "control" may yield the knowledge you seek or more questions for sure. Do you use that Pyrethrin based log lasting garment applied bug control?

DB,
 It's not just you, I have the same problem. Poly does'n bother my sons, just me. I now use a cotton t shirt as a buffer.
Reguarding socks,  I've been using military surplus 100% wool socks for the last 9 years. The itch doesn't bother me, but drives my buddy nuts. I watch the surplus sales and pick up a dozen at $20. Not sure what country's military uses them.

Merino wool has made cold wet October trips much easier to bear. I've found this brand (You need to Login or Register to view media files and links) to be virtually itch free and very durable- no holes or tears despite a year and a half of hard use (medium weight zip).