Merino wool for outdoor activities

07 October 2024

When you hear the word ‘wool’, some people may not think of it as the ideal clothing choice for activewear, sportswear or outdoor activities. But merino wool is different. This soft, versatile natural fibre is finer and more lightweight than traditional wool, and helps provide effective temperature regulation and moisture management. This high-performance natural fabric is soft against your skin rather than scratchy, is naturally odour-resistant, and helps keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. Merino wool is renowned for being an outstanding clothing choice for outdoor activities all year round.

Is merino wool the best base layer?

If you’re planning winter activities and wondering: ‘is merino wool the best base layer?’ you’ll find that merino wool makes the ideal base layer for activewear and outdoor pursuits in all conditions. With next-to skin softness, the ability to adapt to your body temperature, plus natural moisture management to help keep you feeling fresh and dry, layering merino wool can help you reach your peak performance. Merino’s versatility means it offers comfortable, lightweight natural fibres which stand up to changing weather conditions and temperatures.

Discover icebreaker’s modular layering system, which works seamlessly with other layers, to support your activity level. Inspired by the hardy merino sheep, who thrive in the scorching summers and freezing winters of New Zealand, we've adapted the amazing natural engineering of their fleece to complement your body’s own heating and cooling system. Unlike traditional wool though, merino is gentle on your skin, making it the perfect choice for base layers as well as mid layers and outer layers.

Is merino wool good for hiking?

Merino wool is a popular choice for hiking clothing, and for good reason. As well as offering comfort and support, its moisture managing and temperature regulation properties mean it can adapt to your body. During more challenging terrain it will help to keep you cool and dry, and once you’ve reached your peak and feel the wind in your hair it’ll help keep you warm. It’s also lightweight, and ideal for layering, so that you can prepare for tough conditions in all seasons.

If you’d like to know: ‘are merino wool socks good for hiking?’, the answer is yes! Thanks to its softness, natural odour resistance and breathability, merino wool is a great option for underwear and merino socks for hiking, as well as t-shirts, sweatshirts, leggings and trousers.

Is merino wool good for running?

When it comes to the question of: ‘Is merino wool good for running?’, the short answer is yes! Running in merino wool offers a high-performance clothing solution which is lightweight, soft against your skin and breathable. Unlike synthetic running wear, choosing merino wool for running helps to manage moisture away from your skin, to keep you cool and dry, as well as being naturally odour resistant. The benefits of merino wool running wear can be enjoyed all year round, and it’s possible to layer your running wear in the winter to help regulate your temperature to keep you focused on your PB.

Is merino wool good for cycling?

Just like runners and hikers, many cyclists opt for merino wool as their fabric of choice due to its durability, breathability, odour resistance, thermoregulation and moisture managing abilities. It’s also soft and flexible, making it a great choice for cycling and other activities. Discover icebreaker’s Cool-Lite™ range, which blends natural merino wool with TENCELTM Lyocell plant-based fibres to create a luxurious fabric that naturally regulates your body’s microclimate, or try Tech Lite range which is ever-popular with cycling fans.

Is merino wool good for camping?

Opting for merino wool as part of your camping essentials is a smart move. Great for layering and keeping out the cold, it can also keep you cool and feeling dry and fresh thanks to its breathability, which can adapt depending on the conditions. The lightweight and versatile nature of merino wool also makes it great for travel wear, whether you’re planning wild camping or glamping with the family. Thermal base layers are a must-have for evening warmth, when socialising or sleeping, as even in the summer months the temperature can drop significantly overnight. Merino wool also offers exceptional natural odour resistance, softness and temperature regulation, so it’s a good choice for mid layers through to travel wear, accessories, jackets and outer layers which may be needed all year round under canvas.

Conclusion

Choosing merino wool for outdoor activities and exercise clothing can provide unrivalled performance in all seasons and conditions. Lightweight, comfortable and truly versatile, merino wool benefits are numerous, and merino fabric makes the perfect choice for all sorts of sports. If you’re still wondering: ‘is merino wool the best base layer’, or ‘is merino wool good for running and hiking’ - why not try this impressive, high performance natural fabric for yourself? You’ll soon discover the unique merino wool benefits, and how exercising or running in merino wool provides soft, versatile separates that will support your next adventure by helping you to keep cool and comfy, no matter what the weather brings.

Merino wool for outdoor activities - FAQ’s

Can you wear merino wool in wet weather?

Merino wool is perfectly adaptable to rainy conditions, as, unlike synthetic fabrics, it stays warm when wet and still offers incredible thermoregulation when damp. If you’re out walking or exercising and the conditions turn to drizzle, merino wool can absorb up to 35% of its weight in water without feeling wet, so you can continue your outdoor adventure whilst still feeling comfortable.

Does merino wool protect against sun?

Merino wool is thought to offer some degree of natural protection from the sun’s rays, as the incredible merino sheep have adapted to survive in scorching summers as well as freezing winters. However, it’s always advisable to wear high factor, broad spectrum sunscreen when spending time outdoors, to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Is merino wool good for all weather?

Merino wool can be worn all year round. Thanks to its breathability and thermoregulating properties, it helps keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. It’s a great option for activewear, and hiking, climbing or running in merino wool makes this lightweight and versatile fabric a good choice even in the heat, as well as for layering as conditions change. Wondering ‘is merino wool the best base layer’? The answer is yes! It manages moisture and stays warm even when wet, making it perfect for cold, snowy and challenging outdoor conditions too.

How many days can you wear merino wool without washing?

High performance merino will not need to be washed as frequently as synthetic fabrics. Thanks to merino wool’s breathability and natural odour resistance, many people find they can wear their favourite items several times before having to wash them. This is just one of the answers to ‘is merino wool the best base layer?’, as the clever moisture management properties ensure sweat is absorbed and released into the air, to prevent bad smells and dampness from building up and creating a breeding ground for bacteria.