Is it okay to be so comfortable even in the summer? Icebreaker's Merino wool base layer perfect for both outdoor and everyday use

There was a time when I thought that merino wool was not suitable for summer

The comfort and ease of Merino wool knitted base layers (underwear) is something that every outdoor enthusiast knows, and we 've featured them on this site many times .

For me personally, merino wool is extremely comfortable to wear, doesn't get cold from sweat, and doesn't smell, so it has become an indispensable part of my daily life, from outdoor activities to everyday underwear

However, on the other hand, they can be a little too hot in the middle of summer, and are difficult to dry during activities that cause a lot of sweating, so many people probably found that they were only useful in the cooler months of spring, autumn, and winter

Good news for those of us who are struggling to cope with the heat of summer with merino wool. Icebreaker has released an excellent base layer that lets you enjoy the comfort of merino wool even in the summer. I'll be sharing my review after wearing it every day and walking on the trails

table of contents

• About Icebreaker Merino Wool or Why I Love Icebreaker
• The 150 Zone Long Sleeve Crew is perfect for summer hikes and runs
• Perfect for summer camp or everyday wear: Sphere Long Sleeve Crew

About icebreaker merino wool, or why I love icebreaker

Just because it's merino wool doesn't mean it's good!

• Non-irritating, soft to the touch
• Ideal temperature control with temperature and humidity control functions (not too cold, not too hot)
• Natural antibacterial and deodorizing effect
• Machine washable and easy to care for
• Ideal for UV protection

To briefly summarize the general merits of merino wool, the above is what is said: Ever since I was blown away by the comfort of merino wool, I have tried dozens of merino wool base layers

What became clear to me was that, in reality, there is no such thing as "anything goes as long as it's merino wool." For example, even if a product is made from 100% merino wool, it may be completely uncomfortable to wear or may quickly become covered in pilling after just one wash. I'm not sure if this is due to the sudden increase in demand over the past few years, but with brands all over the world now making merino wool products, it seems certain that there is a wide variation in quality

Here's why I prefer icebreaker merino wool

Icebreaker's Merino wool, made from the finest raw materials, from yarn to finished products

Icebreaker's merino wool products are made under strict control, from yarn to final product, . This solid base allows you , such as a soft, non-itchy feel, resistance to pilling, moisture-regulating properties, antibacterial and deodorizing properties , and easy washing. You can actually feel the high quality born from careful craftsmanship down to the smallest detail, and we have a higher level of trust than anywhere else.

A simple and sophisticated silhouette with a wide range of uses from outdoor activities to fitness and everyday wear

When I first heard about them, the lineup only consisted of outdoor base layers, but now they offer a wide variety of models that always provide the best performance in any situation, from intense sports to everyday use

Furthermore, I personally find the stylish and sophisticated European cuts and colors to be a charm that no other brand has. For these reasons, I have been buying more every year, and it is no coincidence that my wardrobe is now full of Icebreaker items

The great thing about Icebreaker is that you can choose from a wide variety of merino wools that are suitable not only for the mountains but also for everyday use

The 150 Zone Long Sleeve Crew is perfect for summer hikes and runs

From the diverse lineup that icebreaker boasts, we will be featuring two items that are sure to be a hit this summer. First up is the 150 Zone Long Sleeve Crew , which allows even serious athletes to enjoy the comfort and functionality of merino wool. This is the merino wool base layer that all merino wool lovers have been waiting for, and is truly usable for running.

Walking in Tanzawa in early summer wearing the 150 Zone Long Sleeve Crew

The merino wool used in the fabric is 150mm thick, which isn't the finest, but it's an all-around material suitable for both summer and winter. The nylon core with wool yarn wrapped around it increases durability, and the addition of Lycra (polyurethane) increases elasticity. The snug fit makes it perfect for activities involving intense movement

It fits snugly to the body and doesn't feel stiff or restrictive

Considering the high activity involved in sports scenes, one might think that it would be better to use thinner thread, but this is where the exquisite balance of this model comes in

The yarn is not too thin, ensuring durability and warmth, while mesh panels are placed on the back, sides, and underarms, areas where sweat tends to accumulate, to improve breathability. The back, which normally becomes soaked with sweat quickly when climbing, dries more easily, significantly reducing the discomfort caused by excessive sweating that was previously associated with merino wool

The mesh on the back and underarms is quick-drying and highly breathable, so even though it's made of merino, you won't get sweaty even in the summer

Meanwhile, the sleeves with thumb holes cover the back of your hands, protecting you from the cold in winter. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the jacket is useful not only in summer but also in high-intensity winter activities

The thumbholes that you leave unused during the summer are very useful in the cold season

All seams are flat to reduce chafing and stress even during intense movement, and raglan sleeves allow for greater freedom of movement, eliminating seams when carrying a pack

Designed for intense activities, the seams are flat-seamed for comfort against the skin

Summary: Recommended for people like this

As mentioned at the beginning, this is a one-of-a-kind piece of clothing that is ideal for short, high-intensity outdoor activities such as hiking in the hot summer, fastpacking, trail running, climbing, and cycling, while also allowing you to experience the comfort of natural merino wool. Not only that, but it's also great for layering, but it's also great for cold seasons

However, one thing to be careful about with these mesh hybrid shirts is that while the mesh part dries quickly, it is also the part where body heat quickly escapes. If you leave this part exposed and rely on your usual merino wool, your body will rapidly cool down from that part. You also need to be careful when wearing it with a backpack that has a mesh back and space. It is an effective base layer, so be sure to prepare the appropriate layering accordingly

For official information and to purchase, please visit the official online store here .

Perfect for summer camp or everyday wear: Sphere Long Sleeve Crew

the Sphere Long Sleeve Crew , which combines the comfort, functionality, and style of traditional icebreaker merino wool for midsummer outdoor wear .

Take a leisurely hike through Tanzawa wearing the Sphere Long Sleeve Crew

The fabric uses wool yarn, which is classified as "130" and is extremely fine, but as mentioned above, it is made durable by using a core-spun structure in which the wool yarn is wrapped around nylon yarn. Thanks to this, despite its flexibility and fineness, it remains completely unyielding even when pulled hard. Furthermore, by mixing in a small amount of Tencel, a recycled fiber that has recently been attracting attention, the fabric has a smooth and silky feel and is highly absorbent and quick-drying

In summary, it combines the comfort and moisture-regulating properties of wool, the durability of nylon, and the coolness and quick-drying properties of Tencel, achieving a perfect balance for summer outdoor use. When you actually put it on, you can definitely feel the moist and smooth "merino feel," but the thinness and smoothness add to the lightness and comfort, and the balance here is excellent

Merino wool is made from finely woven, ultra-fine yarns that feel great against the skin and are extremely comfortable to wear

The sleeves are shaped for a comfortable fit and silhouette. Although the seams are not flat, the shoulders are designed to avoid pressure from the pack, making it suitable for activities like hiking

If I had to be picky, I would have preferred flat seams, but the shoulder seams, which avoid pressure, aren't too noticeable

The cut-and-sew silhouette is not too tight, but not too loose, and the standard silhouette is simple enough to be worn on its own, so it seems like it would be suitable for any activity. However, the sleeves are a little long

It is not a tight-fitting piece that is designed for layering, but rather has a cut-and-sew silhouette that can be worn naturally on its own

Summary: Recommended for people like this

This is a high-quality piece that will make you reconsider your previous notion that polyester and other synthetic fiber shirts are the best for summer. It works as a regular base layer and is perfect for activities like camping and hiking, even in the middle of summer. Its sophisticated design and refreshing feel also make it perfect for walking around town. Its adaptability to a wide range of environments and its hygienic nature even after several days of wear make it an excellent choice for summer overseas travel

jacket fills the gaps of 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crew, which I've been wearing heavily for everyday use and outdoors

For official information and to purchase, please visit the official online store here .

   

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