MerinoLoft™: The Revolutionary Insulation That’s Changing Cold-Weather Performance

July, 2025 | icebreaker

In the world of alpine gear, a quiet revolution has been unfolding. icebreaker’s MerinoLoft™ – the first natural merino wool insulation – is redefining what adventurers expect from their cold-weather kit. Combining 30 years of wool innovation with cutting-edge textile engineering, this breakthrough challenges the dominance of synthetic and down insulation with nature’s own solution.

The Insulation Dilemma Solved

Traditional insulation options force uncomfortable compromises:

● Down – Loses all warmth when wet, ethically questionable sourcing
● Synthetics – Bulky, non-breathable, shed microplastics
● Fleec – Poor warmth-to-weight ratio, absorbs moisture

MerinoLoft™ eliminates these trade-offs through a patented blend of:

● Warm When Wet – MerinoLoft™ outperforms down in wet conditions, preserving warmth when traditional insulation would lose effectiveness.
● Breathable & Odor-Resistant – Merino’s natural fibers regulate temperature and resist odor buildup, keeping you comfortable for days.
● Sustainable by Design – Biodegradable and made with traceable, non-mulesed wool, reducing microplastic pollution.

How It Works: The Science Behind MerinoLoft™

1. Natural Loft Structure
● Merino fibers trap warm air like down but wick moisture like synthetics.
● The crimped structure creates millions of tiny air pockets for efficient heat retention.

2. Moisture Management
● Unlike synthetic fills, which absorb sweat and feel clammy, MerinoLoft™ pulls moisture away from the skin and releases it as vapor.
● Tests show it dries faster than polyester insulation.

3. Temperature Regulation
● Adapts to your body’s heat output, preventing overheating in active use.
● Perfect for variable conditions – from freezing mornings to midday hikes.

Sustainability You Can Trust

● Biodegradable – Breaks down naturally at end of life (unlike synthetic fills, which persist as microplastics).
● Ethically Sourced – Wool comes from ZQ-certified farms with strict animal welfare standards.
● Lower Carbon Footprint – Produces 50% fewer emissions than synthetic insulation manufacturing.

The Future of Insulation is Natural

MerinoLoft™ proves that high-performance gear doesn’t need to harm the planet. With ongoing innovations like climate-smart wool sourcing and recycled PLA blends, icebreaker continues to lead the shift toward truly sustainable outdoor apparel.

Our warmest layers yet, icebreaker's MerinoLoft™ collection is a breakthrough in warmth to weight ratios and sustainability. Get the ultimate protection against the cold with our new MerinoLoft™ lightweight jackets.

Machine washable, water resistant and made from recycled materials, our line of performance jackets and vests give maximum warmth with minimal bulk. Part of our unique layering system, pair these lightweight jackets with warm base layers, or shop our collection of hats and neckwear for added warmth. Stay warm this winter while minimizing waste with the icebreaker MerinoLoft™ collection.