This is the godly base layer of the new era of Merino wool. A review of the great revived ibex merino wool products
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
I've started discord
Merino wool was revived in the outdoor world in the 1990s. As you know, underwear (base layers) made from natural materials have grown by many people to become popular in a variety of situations, from outdoors to everyday life.
Founded in 1997 ibex was one of the manufacturers that played an important role in the revival at the time, and was a brand that gained a lot of support as a manufacturer of high-quality merino wool and apparel. In fact, the business was suspended once in 2018, unfortunately, but it made a comeback in the United States a few years ago, and was a happy re-emerged in Japan in 2023.
For me ibex has been a familiar brand since around 2015, when the site was first opened, when we were still not aware of the right or left of merino wool. There's no way my temperament won't move after hearing this news. to have tried out this new ibex
table of contents
- Main specs and evaluations of the ibex base layer we tried this time
- Detailed reviews of each item
- WOOLIES 1 CREW: A signature piece of classic ibex, perfect for the closest layer to your skin
- INDIE HOODIE: A unique piece that you can enjoy seamlessly and comfortably, from active scenes to everyday life
- WOOLIES TECH LONG SLEEVE 1/4 ZIP: A high-performance model that offers the comfort and functionality required of adventures
- WOOLIES PRO TECH CREW: Benchmark for the new era of merino wool, further evolving through technology that overturns conventional wisdom
- Reference: Comparison of size and fit
- Summary: Merino wool is entering a new era.
- ibex Base Layer Details and Purchase
Main specs and evaluations of the ibex base layer we tried this time
| item | WOOLIES 1 CREW | INDIE HOODIE | WOOLIES TECH LONG SLEEVE 1/4 ZIP | WOOLIES PRO TECH CREW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| image |  |  |  |  |
| material |
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| material | Merino wool | MERINO EDGE COOL | WOOLIES TECH | PRO-TECH (Nuyarn) |
| Fabric thickness | 17.5 microns / 180 gm2 | 18.5 microns / 185 gm2 | 18.5 microns / 180 gm2 | 19.5 microns / 125 gm2 |
| Actual weight (g) | 186 (M size) | 273 (M size) | 260 (M size) | 135 (M size) |
| Variations |
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| fit | Close to the body | regular | Touches the skin | Touches the skin |
| Sam Hall | × | ◯ | ◯ *It is temporarily held | ◯ |
| This is ◎ |
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| This is △ |
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| Outdoor Gearzine Rating | ||||
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Thermal insulation | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Breathable | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Quick drying | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Ease of movement | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Durability | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| weight | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
Detailed reviews of each item
WOOLIES 1 CREW: A signature piece of classic ibex, perfect for the closest layer to your skin
Recommended points
- Perfect fit without too tight
- Moderate stretch and easy movement due to calculated patterns such as raglan sleeves
- 17.5 micron ultra-fine merino wool for a comfortable feel
- Ease of layering
- Various properties of merino wool (heat retention, moisture control, and odor-resistant)
Points that interest me
- Durability
- Quick drying
- The cuffed sleeves are easy to layer, but they are difficult to roll up your arms.
Recommended wear and layering
- As the closest layer to the skin, it is the base of all layers
- It is useful in spring, autumn and winter as it is layered (it's slightly thicker in summer and is not suitable as it can't be rolled up)
- For a wide range of activities on chilly days, including skiing, hiking, climbing, running, cycling, and outdoor work.
overview
WOOLIES 1 CREW which has been a staple since the old ibex era is an iconic ibex that can be said to have demonstrated the high potential and potential of pure merino wool in activities in harsh environments It is a simple and minimalist base layer, with a thin, lightweight pattern that adheres to the body lines and no added weight, such as pockets, zippers, or thumb holes.
Comfortable and fit
It is made from an extremely thin fabric made from 100% merino wool fabric of 17.5 microns, with a tagless design and flat seams. Its lightness and natural feel are so comfortable that you'll forget you're wearing it.
Ease of movement
And is it really just merino wool? It was stretchy enough to make you think, and the raglan sleeves also have shoulders, so even with big movements there was no stress.
Ease of layering
A cuff that doesn't easily lift the cuffs? It is designed to prevent the sleeves from slipping up when layering. This is a very useful item in the winter, but on the other hand, it means that you can't roll up the sleeves when it's hot, so I'm a bit worried about wearing it in the hot summer.
Thermal insulation
As expected from 100% wool, it is very warm for the thickness and weight of the fabric. When I wore this in the low mountains in December, I found this one on top of this jacket and a shell would be comfortable enough for milder activities (which means that it can be adjusted and worn with just the right amount of adjustments for milder activities from October to November). On the other hand, for skiing in the real winter, this, fleece, insulation, and outerwear are perfect. The thickness of 180 gsm is not too thick, so it has the advantage that it can be adjusted over a wide range of temperature ranges (by layering) depending on how you layer it. However, it is slightly thick to wear in the summer, and is not suitable for use as mentioned above because it is not possible to roll up the sleeves.
evaluation
Overall, as an orthodox base layer, WOOLIES 1 CREW fits in all kinds of outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking on cold days, climbing and cycling, and even staying warm and comfortable when working outside. However, because it is 100% merino wool, it cannot be said that it has overcome its weaknesses of durability (although it hasn't been used for a long time) and quick-drying properties, so it is important to keep in mind.
INDIE HOODIE: A unique piece that you can enjoy seamlessly and comfortably, from active scenes to everyday life
Recommended points
- A silhouette that doesn't look strange not only in the outdoors but also in everyday life
- Regular fit that can be worn relaxed
- A high quality texture that will make you feel enchanted
- 1/4th front zip and cold protection hood
- Moderate stretch and easy movement due to calculated patterns such as raglan sleeves
- Thumb hole that doesn't bother layering
- Various properties of merino wool (heat retention, moisture control, and odor-resistant)
Points that interest me
- Durability
- Quick drying
- weight
- Regular fits and hoods are not suitable for layering.
Recommended wear and layering
- Spring, Autumn, Winter (assuming that you will layer on top in winter)
- Not too intense activities such as hiking and bikepacking in snowless areas such as mountains in the seasons that are not too hot or low mountains in the cold season.
- It's perfect for your skin to wear underneath such as a base layer or dry layer that is perfect for your skin and then put it on top of it.
- Wear it on a short-sleeved T-shirt or directly as everyday wear in warm seasons
overview
INDIE HOODIE is a very unique, multi-purpose hoodie that can be used as an active base layer or as a daily hoodie. It was suitable for spending the whole day in harsh environments and nature, or for everyday work, travelling, or going out.
Comfortable and fit
The first and most impressive thing was how comfortable it was. The moment I put it on, I was so impressed by the smooth texture that I couldn't help but admire, "Heh," and the moderately roomy, relaxed fit made me think, "Oh, I want to wear this every day."
The difference is the unique steaming process "MERINO EDGE COOL" made from merino wool used in INDIE HOODIE For now, this processing, which has a slightly glossy appearance, is described as "they have a cool feel and are versatile in various climates," but I personally find that this "cool" part has a "smooth feel." Regardless of the expression, this unique feel to the touch was such a shame to tidy it up as merino wool, and it was a special comfort. By the way, I was worried that this slight coolness would make me feel even more cold in the winter, but I didn't feel any particular kind of thing.
Ease of movement and layering
This also means that the raglan sleeves are also covered in shoulders and flatlock seams that prevent the seams from getting grounded and reduce stress on the skin, making it hard to feel any stress from movement.
Raglan sleeves create ease of movement around the shoulders and avoid the shoulder harness of the backpack.
The armpits have three-dimensional cutting that takes into account movement.
Unlike other models, it has a slightly looser regular fit, so it gives the impression of being a "thin hoodie that can be layered as mountain wear" rather than a perfect piece to layer. However, there are thumb holes on the cuffs, so layering from above was not a problem.
The regular fit gives it a slightly looser look, but the thumb hole prevents the sleeves from being rolled up when layered.
Thermal insulation
With 100% merino wool and 185 gsm thick, the thickness of the fabric is, the WOOLIES 1 , the volume can be adjusted to accommodate a wide range of volumes, except for the summer heat. During my hike in Shinshu (no-fu), I wore a WOOLIES 1 INDIE HOODIE , and while I was in action, I was able to stay warm and comfortable with these two pieces. Of course, you can wear this one piece directly on your skin as a base layer, but if you do that, it's best to be aware of the size slightly tighter than other models from the company.
The 1/4 zipper on the front allows you to control the temperature when you sweat, while the balaclava-type hood that wears under the helmet will protect you from wind and should be able to accommodate a wide range of temperature ranges (although it does have a heavy feel to it).
evaluation
This model's unique personality and appeal is that it has the most difficult characteristics, which are "excellent as a serious base layer to wear outdoors, yet easy to wear in everyday life." If you're looking for something special about serious activities, I'd recommend the two models I'll explain in the future, but this one piece will surely appeal to people like me who do outdoor activities and don't want to give up on the comfort of outdoor wear in everyday life.
WOOLIES TECH LONG SLEEVE 1/4 ZIP: A high-performance model that offers the comfort and functionality required of adventures
Recommended points
- The natural, lean silhouette gives it a comfortable fit but doesn't feel tight
- WOOLIES TECH fabric that achieves durability, heat retention, quick drying and mobility at a high level
- 1/4 front zip for easy heat control
- Moderate stretch and easy movement due to calculated patterns such as raglan sleeves
- Thumb hole that is easy to layer (can be closed if not needed)
- Various properties of merino wool (heat retention, moisture control, and odor-resistant)
Points that interest me
- None in particular
Recommended wear and layering
- It's mainly cold seasons in autumn and winter
- All activities in mountain areas during cold seasons, including snowy mountains during the harsh winter
- You can wear it directly on the skin or over an underwear that adheres to the skin, such as a dry layer, and wear it alone depending on your environment, or combine it with intermediate and outerwear on top.
overview
WOOLIES TECH is a premium base layer made from high quality merino wool, nylon and elastane for increased elasticity. It looks great on its own, and can be layered without any discomfort when combined with a mid-layered item, making it ideal for a variety of adventures under low temperatures. Its versatility in active scenes is the most impressive.
WOOLIES TECH is its high overall functionality, including comfort. It's comfortable to wear, warm, easy to move around, quick drying and durable. It's really too empty.
The main focus of this highly perfection is the "WOOLIES TECH*" fabric, a hybrid material made of merino wool and synthetic fiber.
*The official Japanese website says "PRO-TECH", but as of January 12, 2024, the official US website says "WOOLIES TECH", so I'm using that as a reference.
WOOLIES TECH fabrics are made of fibers by wrapping merino wool around a nylon core. This keeps pure wool comfortable while also making it more durable than wool (merino wool tends to stretch, wear out, and become holes over time). This combines the durability and quick drying of nylon, as well as the heat retention and comfort of wool. Furthermore, the elastane, which makes up the remaining 7%, makes up this layer, unlike other models, has a very comfortable stretchy feel with a solid kickback.
Comfortable and fit
traditional WOOLIES 1, the WOOLIES TECH has a slightly more relaxed and natural fit (especially around the arms to sleeves), and it is certainly a lean silhouette optimized for wearing in active situations. Also, WOOLIES TECH fabric synthetic fiber, the parts that come into contact with the skin are wool, so the feel is not inferior to other products.
Ease of movement
Even when you move your arms or upper body, it is highly elastic and has a raglan sleeve that ensures ease of movement while avoiding the shoulder apex, flatlock seams that provide smooth lining, and three-dimensionally cut underarm panels for exceptional ease of movement.
WOOLIES TECH has a very comfortable range of motion compared to 100% merino wool.
Heat retention and quick drying
I tried wearing this layer for BC skiing or snowy mountain climbing, but in either case I didn't feel any extreme discomfort from the sweat I had while hiking, and after that I didn't feel cold sweat when I stopped (of course it also had to do with my middle-season clothes).
Ease of layering
The silhouette fits the body lines without any stress when layering. Another unique feature is that the sleeves have thumb holes that are temporarily fastened in advance. This is especially important for those who don't need thumb holes, and by cutting the sewing thread, the thumb holes can be used by those who need them.
evaluation
Compensating for the weaknesses of wool, while also giving you the most of the charm of wool, WOOLIES TECH has almost all the elements that a top-class base layer should have. It's not a simple price, but considering this quality and expected useful life, it should be worth it.
WOOLIES PRO TECH CREW: Benchmark for the new era of merino wool, further evolving through technology that overturns conventional wisdom
Recommended points
- Surprisingly light
- It fits well but doesn't feel tight
- PRO-TECH (Nuyarn) fabric with a dramatically improved functionality in all respects
- Excellent quick drying
- Moderate stretch and easy movement due to calculated patterns such as raglan sleeves
- A silhouette that is close to the body and thumb hole that is easy to layer.
- Various properties of merino wool (heat retention, moisture control, and odor-resistant)
Points that interest me
- None in particular
Recommended wear and layering
- Spring, Autumn, Winter
- All activities in mountain areas in a wide range of seasons, from slightly chilly spring and autumn to harsh winter
- You can wear it directly on the skin or over an underwear that adheres to the skin, such as a dry layer, and wear it alone depending on your environment, or combine it with intermediate and outerwear on top.
overview
WOOLIES PRO TECH is a base layer that uses "Nuyarn®" technology and is the lightest in Ibex history and designed to deliver the best performance in cold conditions. This technology has made the properties (attractiveness) of traditional merino wool surprisingly low in weight without compromising, and has 35% higher heat retention, 85% higher elasticity, 5 times higher quick drying, and 8.8 times higher durability.
Comfort, fit, easy to move, easy to layer
As for fit, WOOLIES TECH is the perfect fit that fits closely to your body and gives it a relaxed, natural fit.
Although the fibers are 19.5 microns thicker than the merino wool models (although they are still extremely thin), this one is smooth and comfortable to the touch, so you don't notice the difference. The design with no tags on the back of the neck, raglan sleeves, flatlock seams, and underarm gussets are still in good condition, providing comfortable comfort, ease of layering, and ease of movement. Also, the elasticity of the product is 85% higher, so it feels so comfortable that it's hard to believe that it's not made from any stretchy fibers such as polyurethane, and it stretches and contracts smoothly.
However, what's most surprising is the extraordinary lightness of 120 gsm. WOOLIES 1 , they said that they "so much that they forget they're wearing it," but once they get to this point, this is just a "second skin."
Under the armpits are gussets made of three-dimensional cutting to reduce the feeling of stiffness in movement.
The seams are also finished flat, so you won't feel any discomfort when pressed.
Heat retention and quick drying
The "Nuyarn®" technology, which has a non-twisted structure, creates a natural air pocket within the fiber, which serves as an effective insulation. The synergistic effect of the increased loft and wool heat retention makes it lighter and more excellent heat retention than traditional merino wool. It also improves breathability and quick drying. When I actually wear it on the field, I was able to get the sweat and comfort of a synthetic base layer, even when hiking up in a backcountry where there is a relatively large amount of activity, and the quick drying speed. Even though it's so light and merino wool, what's the good way to let out sweat? That surprise is refreshing.
evaluation
Wearing it in a variety of winter scenes, this base layer has always provided a much greater comfort than before in all situations. WOOLIES PRO TECH is a groundbreaking yet highly refined product that tells the new era of merino wool base layers, born from the fusion of cutting-edge innovative technologies and the craftsmanship of merino wool. Furthermore, it can be said that merino wool products that will be developed in the future will inevitably be compared to this one piece, which can be said to be a new benchmark for the future. That's such an impressive piece. This is a piece we recommend not only for hikers, skiers, climbers, and backpackers, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy the cold season.
Reference: Comparison of size and fit
Wearing size 176cm, 64kg, size M.
Summary: Merino wool is entering a new era.
has been saying "Nuyarn® is incredible" for several years WOOLIES PRO TECH CREW has finally come to mind that the product that is popular has finally been born. Nuyarn® maintains the appeal of merino wool as a "comfortable material" but has significantly improved performance during conventional activities, yet has achieved lightness and durability. This dreamlike material ibex , and as a result, we have created an ideal winter base layer that is completely unpleasant. At the moment, I don't think there is a winter base layer that exceeds this. It's not too thick so you can use it from just when it gets a little chilly until early spring. I've been comparing dozens of products to date and checking out new releases every year, so if you're asked about a base layer you can use outside of the summer, I'd recommend this one without hesitation. Of course, there is no need to worry about the high basic performance and design of other models, and as I wrote in the main text, each has its own areas and strengths, so if you choose one that matches your preferences and what they are, you will surely be happy.
Keep an eye out for beautifully revived ibex
ibex Base Layer Details and Purchase
For product details, please check the ibex official website
