What is a Mid Layer? | Merino Mid Layer Guide

Pack comfort every time you head out the door with a mid layer for any outdoor pursuit.

A mid layer is an essential part of any outdoor adventure. It is the heart of your layering system, using advanced insulation to regulate your body temperature all day, in any season. Our responsibly sourced merino wool keeps you warm and comfortable no matter the conditions. Offering first-rate functionality, our mid layers are made of merino wool and plastic-free fibres so you never have to wonder if you’re making a great choice. Choose a mid layer that’s versatile and comfortable, and it’ll be your go-to adventure partner every time you walk out the door.

Whether your next path leads to a high mountain campsite, into knee-deep snow in the backcountry, or on a stroll around the neighbourhood, be prepared with the right mid layer.

RealFleece™ - Lightweight Warmth

These technical mid layers regulate your body temperature making a perfect performance piece. What makes RealFleece™ so unique is its brushed merino wool that regulates your body temperature without adding weight.

When you need a layer that will balance your body temperature all day, the Descender is a great match with its striped fleece fabric structure. The Descender family offers three three weights so you can have the right piece for an adventure in any temperature. When warmth is the focus, reach for the Elemental, made with 100% merino wool it's built for cold winter days. If cosy and comfy is calling you, then turn to our irresistible High Pile with its TENCEL™ Lyocell blend to keep things light, warm, and breathable. Our one-of-a-kind RealFleece™ mid layers make it easy to stay warm when chasing your mountain objective.

200 RealFleece™ Descender

The 200 RealFleece™ Descender is the perfect lightweight mid layer for high intensity activities. Its Cool-Lite™ underarm panels let your natural cooling system thrive while the striped merino fleece brings extra warmth. Seams in all the right places reduce friction. This piece moves with you, and adapts to you, so all you have to focus on is your objective. Move to Natural™ in this perfect plastic-free mid layer.

Good for: Running Hiking Warmth system 200

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360 RealFleece™ Descender

A reliable warm layer that lets you forget about what your clothes are doing, and focus on your pursuit instead. Thumb loops, zippered pockets, and a zipper chin guard are just a few details that make this layer a no-brainer. This warm technical piece is a perfect go-to when the weather is cold and your route is long.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Warmth system 360

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400 RealFleece™ Descender

The warmest piece in the Descender series, designed for low intensity activities in cold winter days. Featuring Merino wool blend, this is an ideal piece of gear for a big mountain pursuit. Working with you as you work, the 400 RealFleece™ Descender adapts as you progress up the route. With its flatlock seams, and dipped hem, the details are almost as prepared as you are. When it’s cold outside, you’re warm inside with the 400 RealFleece™ Descender.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Everyday Warmth system 400

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360 RealFleece™ Elemental

When you need a trusted layer that will excel on any adventure, turn to the Elemental. The 360 RealFleece™ is made with 100% merino wool and with a regular fit, making it an obvious partner for cold endeavours. So layer up and get out there.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Everyday Warmth system 360

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560 RealFleece™ Elemental

This heavyweight mid layer with a regular fit keeps you warm on cold days. No nonsense, all comfort. For days when the forecast is giving extra “winter” vibes, the 560 RealFleece™ Elemental has got your back. With details like thumb loops and articulated sleeves, and made from 100% merino wool, you’ll forget about your wardrobe and keep your eyes on that summit.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Everyday Warmth system 560

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960 RealFleece™ High-Pile

A classic fleece, reinvented to be 100% plastic free fabric, the 960 High-Pile is the warmest mid layer in the RealFleece™ category. The brushed merino wool offers unparalleled warmth without weighing you down, and brings extra comfort and coziness. Relax, reflect, and look great while you’re at it.

Good for: Hiking Everyday Warmth system 960

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Active Insulation

When the going gets cold, the tough get going. With our Insulated Layers, you can face the chill without feeling it drag you down. These mid layers have all the warmth you want and none of the weight you don’t. MerinoLoft™ innovation and Lyoloft insulation make them expert temperature regulators. So make the forecast one less thing to worry about with the warmth and breathability of our insulated layers.

260 Quantum Hybrid

Don't let the weather keep you indoors! This technical layer regulates your body temperature and keeps you protected from the elements. Our Lyoloft insulation, made with 100% plant-based TENCEL™ Lyocell fill, gives this midlayer the perfect balance of warmth and insulation. So, get out there before the sun does - you’re well equipped.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Warmth system 260

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1360 MerinoLoft™

Sweating in the cold? That’s so last season. Layer this insulation under a waterproof shell, or wear it on its own: either way you look great and feel even better. This layer is water repellent and wind resistant so you’re ready for anything the cold mountain day throws your way. Its shoulder panels and a secure hood help it meld seamlessly with the rest of your kit. Get after it.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Everyday Warmth system 1360

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Everyday Essentials

Not every outdoor pursuit is a mountain expedition. Sometimes the chill of a morning walk with the dog can take your breath away. We made these essentials with plastic-free fibres like Merino wool, Cotton and Tencel™ Lyocell so you can rely on them for any activity. Above treeline or on a morning jog, you’ll be equally prepared. Enjoy comfort anywhere you go with our essential layers.

260 Quantum

Every once in a while you find that one piece that does it all. High alpine jaunts, hikes through that first fall chill and strolls in the park . That’s why we made the 260 Quantum with 100% Merino wool. It’s the layer legend of your everyday life.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Everyday Warmth system 260

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Crush & Shifter

When the day calls for sitting by the fire with your favourite book, reach for these indulgent lounge layers. Perfect for rest days, or relaxing after something epic, the Crush & Shifter are built to put a smile on your face. So, when the weather isn’t playing nice, snuggle up and try again tomorrow.

Good for: Everyday Warmth system 200

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Original

If you’re not sure where to start with your first mid layer, the classic is always a smart choice. icebreaker’s heritage 100% merino wool mid layer, this piece offers a simple and timeless design. This one does it all, and does it well - all while being conscious of its impact on the environment.

Good for: Hiking Snow Sports Everyday Warmth system 300

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Central

Don’t overthink it. Our classic Central pullover boasts organically grown cotton fibres that pair perfectly with merino wool for the ideal comfort year-round. So take a deep breath and get your day started. The Central has got you covered all year-round.

Good for: Everyday Fabric: 70% Merino wool, 30% Organically grown cotton

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