Is Merino Wool Good for Summer?

05 August 2024

Pick up an item of high-quality winter clothing or cold-weather activewear, and you might find merino wool in the construction. Merino is known for its excellent insulation properties, so it's a great choice when it comes to just about all cold-climate activities.

What's less well-known is that merino wool is also an excellent choice for summer clothing, too. From merino wool socks to breathable sportswear , casual clothes and more, merino wool's breathability and moisture-managing capabilities mean it ranks top when it comes to clothing that's ideal for the summer months.

What is merino wool?

merino wool comes from merino sheep, which commonly graze amongst the rugged landscape of New Zealand. Merino sheep are renowned for producing a soft, fine wool that's highly versatile when it comes to clothing construction.

For example, merino wool is much finer and softer than its classic sheep's wool counterpart, making it less scratchy and more comfortable against the skin. It effectively manages moisture, keeping you dry in all climates by absorbing sweat from your skin and releasing it into the air. It's also lightweight, insulative and highly resilient.

Is merino wool good for summer

Can you wear merino wool in summer? The answer is a resounding yes. When the temperatures start to climb, one of the major benefits of merino wool is its breathability. Merino wool fibres are naturally porous, meaning they allow air to circulate easily around the body, delivering a naturally keep-cool feeling of freshness all day.

Secondly, merino wool is great for keeping active in summer, thanks to its moisture-managing properties. If sweat builds up on the skin as you exercise, the merino fibres draw sweat away from the body, leaving you feeling cool and dry.

Thirdly, merino wool is naturally odour-resistant. The result: the growth of odour-causing bacteria is kept in check, keeping you feeling fresh even in the hot and humid climates.

Why merino wool for keeping active in summer?

When it comes to exercising in hot weather, clothing made from merino can make a real difference to how you feel, which in turn may help boost your performance. For example, merino t-shirts are perfect for hiking, running gear and other sports. Engineered merino fabrics, as you'll find in our Merino Tech Lite tees, are particularly comfortable to wear for extended periods. This is due to their sheer feel and lightweight design.

Bottoms aren't to be forgotten, either. A moisture-wicking pair of shorts can help keep you dry and comfortable, even when you're sweating heavily. The breathability of the fabric also allows optimal air flow-through, helping to maximise cooling.

Are merino wool socks good for summer

Many people also wonder, are merino socks good for summer? Absolutely. When it comes to summer socks, merino wool socks offer a number of benefits. Their breathability and moisture-wicking properties can help keep your feet dry and even prevent blisters – especially important when you're walking long distances or playing a big match. Merino wool's odour control properties will also help to reduce potential odour buildup.

Lastly, if the weather is changeable, merino is ideal for layering. Consider adding a base layers for running on chillier mornings, or grab a merino top. Our ZoneKnit™ technology balances warmth and breathability while exercising, and incorporates strategic panels of eyelet mesh for enhanced airflow. The result: all the natural benefits of merino wool, with an extra dose of cooling.

An all-round summer fabric

Whether you're hiking, running, or just enjoying some rest and relaxation in the summer months, merino wool is a high-performing summer fabric that'll keep you comfortable and dry, day long.

At icebreaker, we've worked hard to refine the natural benefits of merino wool. From our easy-wearing Cool-Lite™ casual summer clothing to activewear, everyday breathable underwear and even high-performing ZoneKnit™ gear, you'll find everything you need to keep cool throughout the summer.

Is merino wool good for summer? - FAQ

Is merino wool better than cotton in summer?

High quality merino wool is considered more breathable than cotton, with better thermoregulation and moisture management capabilities. Lightweight merino will help keep you cool and wick-away sweat in hot summer conditions. It's also highly durable and maintains its shape in humid climates, meaning it won't crease like linen or cotton.

Is merino wool really hot?

Merino wool, despite its name, isn't like traditional sheep's wool. It's ultra breathable, lightweight and helps to regulate body temperature. It allows air to circulate, to help keep you cool in the heat, whilst managing moisture to leave you feeling dry and fresh. 

Does merino wool stop sweating?

Whilst your body may still produce sweat when you exercise, merino wool can help keep you feeling fresh whilst reducing clamminess thanks to its breathability and natural temperature control abilities. The sweat you produce is absorbed and released, and its odour resistant properties help to reduce any sweaty smells.

Can you wear merino wool everyday?

Merino wool is ideal to wear every day. From underwear to base layers, casual clothing and high performance activewear, merino's breathable, lightweight and super-soft fibres will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. It's ideal for layering in chillier conditions, and is great for all the family.

Should merino wool be worn next to skin?

Smooth, super-fine merino fibres feel silky soft against skin, making them a fantastic choice for t-shirts and underwear. High quality merino is known to be non-itch, and won't irritate your skin like classic sheep's wool can. It's comfort, breathability and moisture management make merino the perfect base layer.