Once you wear it you can't go back! 10 recommended merino wool base layers (inners) that are even more comfortable
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
table of contents
- It's a season when the colder weather is even more so I still miss Merino wool this year too
- The hybrid model, which makes use of the functions of merino wool, is hot.
- table of contents
- Editorial Department's recommended merino wool base layer
- Arc'teryx SATORO AR Zip Neck Shirt LS
- SmartWool NTS Micro 150 Pattern Crew
- NORRONA Wool Round Neck
- Patagonia Capreen Air Crew
- Rab Merino Plus 160 Long-Sleeve Crew
- Teton Bros. Power Wool Grid L/S
- Icebreaker Oasis LS Crewe Stripe
- Houdini Activist Crew
- ibex Woolly's 1 Crew Stripe
- mont-bell super merino wool LW round neck shirt
- summary
It's a season when the colder weather is even more so I still miss Merino wool this year too
Of course, this year, we will continue to do it again, just like last year.
This base layer made of "old and new" merino wool material, which has long been popular as a classic wear on the mountains, has undergone various improvements and has now gained a lot of support as a magical underwear that can be used all year round. The tingling sensation that traditional wool has been removed, and it feels comfortable to wear is great, and has moderate elasticity, making it easy to move around, keeping you warm even when you sweat, and also has a natural deodorizing effect. The high quality, which evenly covers the functions necessary for winter underwear, is great for use in harsh environments like outdoors, as well as everyday wear in winter (underwear). Many people are always comfortable, no layering or heating, making it a must-have for winter.
The hybrid model, which makes use of the functions of merino wool, is hot.
Looking at the new models from last year to this year (2016), it seems that in recent years we are not competing for the quality of merino wool itself (has it already reached a plateau in terms of quality?), but we are entering an era of technological innovation competition in various layers, from how we make fibers to how weaving fabrics.
Of course, the advantage of 100% merino wool is still in good condition, but these hybrid models are all extremely challenging and attractive in the sense that they do not kill the merino wool's strengths and make up for their weaknesses. And because of the nature of underwear, it's not just about the functionality that is excellent, but there are a lot of things that are required of a base layer, including the delicate aspects of clothing, such as comfort, fit, and design.
This time, we will introduce 10 recommended items selected by our editorial team from among the 2016 models, including many ambitious new models. An important equipment that will completely change your comfort in the outdoors in the winter. Before you decide on the momentum, please refer to this!
We also recommend this article about base layers.
- I want to get it wisely! How to choose the best base layer throughout the year
- Comparison review: What I learned from comparing 20 or more Merino wool base layers (Comparison report from 2015)
- I've tried out all the high-performance mesh underwear that's rumored to be "too comfortable" (now about the best partner that is essential for base layers)
table of contents
- Merino wool base layer recommended by the editorial department in 2016
- Arc'teryx SATORO AR Zip Neck Shirt LS
- SmartWool NTS Micro 150 Pattern Crew
- NORRONA Wool Round Neck
- Patagonia Capreen Air Crew
- Rab MERINO +™ 160 LS Crew
- Teton Bros. Power Wool Grid L/S
- Icebreaker Oasis LS Crewe Stripe
- Houdini Activist Crew
- ibex Woolly's 1 Crew Stripe
- mont-bell super merino wool LW round neck shirt
- summary
Editorial Department's recommended merino wool base layer
Arc'teryx SATORO AR Zip Neck Shirt LS
Heat retention ★★★ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★★ Sweat removal ★★☆ Everyday use ★☆☆
The hybrid base layer announced by Arcteryx this season uses the newly developed material "Nucliex STR", which is wrapped around highly strong nylon core filaments and merino wool fibers. This has succeeded in achieving both the comfortable feel of merino wool and the high durability of the nylon in the center, while fully utilizing the heat retention and deodorizing properties. It is true that the thin, supple fibers have a stunning finish, and the unevenness of the seams is minimized, making it comfortable to wear when worn, just like a 100% wool model. Furthermore, the elasticity of the polyurethane fibers gives it an excellent fit that matches the lines of your body. It can be said to be a new dimension of hybrid base layer that brings out the best of merino wool. *Crew neck type is also available.
SmartWool NTS Micro 150 Pattern Crew
Heat retention ★★☆ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★★ Sweat removal ★★☆ Everyday use ★★★
If you were asked to choose merino wool that can be used all year round, you would not hesitate to choose this one. The high quality quality that is carefully crafted down to the smallest detail, such as a fine, supple feel that is only possible with 100% high-quality merino wool, high temperature adjustment, flatlock seams that reduce unevenness in the seams, and a comfortable fit due to the position of the seams calculated to prevent them from hitting the shoulder, will make it easy to wear and fit. There are almost no drawbacks, including its durability and cost-effectiveness, which means it is hardly pill or sagging even after long-term use. The most basic and easy to use throughout the year is the thin type of 150g/m2, but there's nothing to be said for a thick model of 250g/m2 for the middle of winter. *Zip neck type is also available.
NORRONA Wool Round Neck
Heat retention ★★☆ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★★ Sweat removal ★★☆ Everyday use ★☆☆
Among Norna's Norna brands, it has made a good impression with its production of products that have no particular compromises in terms of functionality. The supple and soft feel that is only possible because of the highest level of ultra-fine wool fibers of 17.5 micron, which is woven in a rich manner, is the most impressive ever since Smartwool (a certain magazine information in the US also includes Smartwool 17.5 micron). There is no doubt that both are extremely comfortable to wear, but this one is not made from 100% wool, but rather the 6% blended nylon gives just the right amount of strength and compensates for the weakness of the ultra-fine fibers. Furthermore, the thickness of 170g/m2 is an exquisite weight that is neither too thick nor too thin for autumn and winter underwear. If you're going to be in a hard winter sport, including the perfect fit, this year might be the best choice. *Zip neck type is also available.
Patagonia Capreen Air Crew
Heat retention ★★☆ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★★ Sweat removal ★★★ Everyday use ★★★
The uniquely developed fabric, Caprein Air, is a novel blend made from extremely fine merino wool and caprein (synthetic fiber) sourced from the Patagonia region, seamlessly knitted with advanced spinning technology, making zigzag grooves crawl. This created an ideal bulky structure, dramatically improving heat retention per weight, but also the air-through grooves improved breathability, allowing for an innovative base layer that is "warm and easy to remove sweat." Not only is its functionality, but it also has a soft, seamless, comfortable feel and high elasticity, making it an exquisite fit that fits tightly and does not feel cramped. It gives you a sense of comfort you've never experienced before. *Image is taken from the manufacturer's website. There is also a hooded model with a higher heat retention.
Rab Merino Plus 160 Long-Sleeve Crew
Heat retention ★★☆ Comfort ★★☆ Fit ★★★ Sweat removal ★★★ Everyday use ★☆☆
A wool/synthetic fiber blend model that uses "37.5 Technology" which attaches carbon, an active particle with many holes, to the surface of polyester fibers. The sweat on the skin is quickly sucked up from the surface of the body due to capillary action and surface tension, resulting in a dry feeling and quick-drying of the clothing, and has been designed to maximize comfort during exercise while taking advantage of the heat retention of merino wool. Despite its slim construction, it is easy to move around with its cutting along the lines of the body and moderate elasticity. The position of the seams has been designed to prevent them from interfering with the backpack. Due to its high sweat-removal ability, it is ideal for highly motivated activities such as climbing, running, and backcountry, even in cold seasons. *Zip neck type is also available.
Teton Bros. Power Wool Grid L/S
Heat retention ★★★ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★☆ Sweat removal ★☆☆☆ Everyday use ★★★
The "Polartec Power Wool" hybrid material used in this new medium-thick round neck base layer is a two-layer structure with a merino wool layer and a synthetic fiber layer on the outside, rather than mixing the fibers together. It combines the benefits of wool with the comfort, heat retention and odor resistance, as well as the breathability and durability of synthetic fibers. The wool surface of the lining is especially brushed with ultra-fine 15.5 micron fibers, making it easy to create a layer of air, and despite its lightweight, it is attractive for its warmth that you can feel the moment you wear it. Furthermore, this brushed material has a grid-like unevenness, ensuring good ventilation, making it less likely to get stuffy, and creates a high level of balance. In addition, the snow-facing design, such as the long hem on the back side, is great for backcountry skiers.
Icebreaker Oasis LS Crewe Stripe
Heat retention ★★★ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★☆ Sweat removal ★★☆ Everyday use ★★★
I secretly believe that Icebreaker's classic series, one of the top brands of merino wool along with smart wool, is thick enough for the fall/winter season at 200g/m2, has a very smooth texture, an exquisite fit that is perfect for both outdoor and everyday use, and is still quite top-notch in terms of ease of use, including everyday use ( see the review here for more details ). What's great about this is the rich lineup. There are also a wide variety of colors. This year, the striped model has also been added to the pattern from last year, as well as a thick stripe pattern. *Zip neck type is also available.
Houdini Activist Crew
Heat retention ★★☆ Comfort ★★★ Fit ★★☆ Sweat removal ★☆☆☆ Everyday use ★★★
If you are particular about comfort, you cannot remove Houdini's merino wool. Last year we introduced Airborn Crew, which is made with silk mixed in, but this year's recommendation is a blended model with Tencel, an eco-friendly material that is even softer, more durable and quick-drying. Not only is its patterning good in terms of lightness, feel and stress-free comfort, but the improved breathability makes it easy to use not only for everyday use, but also for intense winter sports such as skiing and backcountry. The unique texture and color scheme of the fabric are unique to this brand. *Zip neck type is also available.
ibex Woolly's 1 Crew Stripe
Heat retention ★★☆ Comfort ★★☆ Fit ★★★ Sweat removal ★★☆ Everyday use ★★☆
ibex, a merino wool apparel manufacturer that uses ultra-fine, high-quality merino wool from New Zealand, expands the possibilities of merino wool in a variety of situations, from harsh outdoor activities to everyday life.It has a wide range of simple and stylish silhouettes and designs that blend into your daily life. This classic model is made of 100% wool but has a highly elastic raglan sleeve (form fit) that gives it a great fit. In fact, the ibex seems to have an extremely comfortable model made from 17.5 micron fiber called Nelson Long Sleeve, but those models are relatively loose (regular fit) so they are more suitable for everyday use. For this reason, if you prioritize using it in sports, this classic model is still recommended. *Zip neck type is also available.
mont-bell super merino wool LW round neck shirt
Heat retention★☆☆ Comfort★★☆ Fit★★☆ Sweat removal★★☆ Everyday use★☆☆
It has a certain level of functionality that is incomparable and is surprisingly affordable. Is there any more obvious advantages? Although there's nothing stand out, it has the characteristics of merino wool, such as flexibility, temperature control (heat retention) and odor-resistant properties, so it's probably enough, as I reviewed previously, and if you consider it as an inner layer (although I personally find the silhouette disappointing), it's definitely a great deal. By the way, after using it for a year, it has a fairly durable finish, so it's best to keep in mind that you'll replace it every year. *Medium-thick and extra-thick models, as well as zip neck types.
summary
Merino wool has now become a fully established base layer for outdoor activities, but this year it is still a new system and is becoming easier to use, making it an interesting area that you can't take your eyes off of. Above all, unlike other mountain tools, it is troublesome that it is very useful in everyday life, and every time a new model comes out, I end up trying it out. Anyway, if you have never experienced merino wool, which has become an indispensable piece for winter life, why not take this opportunity to give it a try?
