Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Your All-Season Layering Guide

July, 2025 | icebreaker

Conquer New Zealand’s epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing in any weather with our merino wool layering system. Stay warm, dry, and agile—naturally.

Why Tongariro Demands Smart Layering

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19.4km) throws every condition at you:

Scorching sun on volcanic plains
Freezing winds at Red Crater (1,886m)
Sudden rain in Emerald Lakes valley

Traditional synthetic layers fail here—they trap sweat, then freeze. Merino wool’s natural temperature regulation keeps you comfortable through rapid shifts.

The icebreaker Layering System for Tongariro

1. Base Layer: Moisture Control
✅200 Oasis Crew 
● Why: Wicks sweat, prevents clamminess during steep climbs
● Pro Tip: "Size up for airflow if you run hot!" – Guide Sarah K.

2. Mid Layer: Insulation
✅200 RealFleece™ Descender
● Why: Brushed merino traps warmth without bulk when temps drop
● Feature: Underarm panels of Cool-Lite™ mesh for optimal ventilation

3. Outer Layer: Protection
✅ Shell+™ Jacket 
● Why: Blocks alpine winds + light rain
● Bonus: Durable, PFC-free, water-repellent, providing sun protection

What Real Hikers Pack

"I’ve guided Tongariro 50+ times. The difference? Merino doesn’t stink after the sulfuric vents like synthetics do." – Jake, NZ Mountain Guides

Complete Packing List:

● Top: Merino 150 Tech Lite SS T-Shirt + 200 Realfleece™ Descender LS Half Zip Jacket
● Bottoms: Blend 125 Cool-Lite™ Active 7" Shorts
● Extras: Merino Chase Beanie, 260 Tech Glove Liners, Merino Hike+ Medium Crew Socks

Beyond Tongariro: More NZ Adventures

1. Routeburn Track →1360 MerinoLoft™ Vest for Fiordland’s damp chill
2. Abel Tasman Coast →125 Cool-Lite™ Sphere T-shirt for beach-to-forest transitions
3. Winter Summit Attempts →260 Zoneknit™ LS Crewe for extreme conditions