Review: SmartWool Merino Wool NTS Micro 150 Crew
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
table of contents
Once worn, you can't let go of it, and you'll want everyone to try it out
I introduced icebreaker's merino wool as the base layer I've worn for the longest time, including everyday life However, if I were asked to choose the best base layer to wear outdoors, I would surely give it this long sleeve. I think SmartWool is a base layer that can be compared to icebreaker in terms of 100% merino wool, but when you compare it, you can see a variety of differences, such as comfort, ease of movement, and heat retention, and in the end, this one is a bit better. I would like to review the details below while looking at the differences between them.
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 test: We compared the base layer (underwear) of merino wool that we are interested in
Detailed review
Item name (price)
Main Specifications and ratings
Please see this review to compare it with other items.
| item | Specifications and ratings |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 180g jersey (100% wool (merino wool)) |
| Color | (KB) Black border, (BB) Bottle border x Chatreuse *A lineup of different color patterns available |
| Size | S, M, L |
| country of origin | Vietnam |
| weight | 150／195／250 *This review is 150 |
| Fit (10 points) | 9 |
| Feel and comfort (10 points) | 8 |
| Mobility (10 points) | 8 |
| Temperature adjustment performance (20 points) | 20 |
| Quick drying (20 points) | 14 |
| Durability (10 points) | 8 |
| Form design (10 items) | 8 |
| Price (10 items) | 5 |
| Overall score | 80 |
This is amazing!
The cuffs are wide and have room. A logo mark as a highlight.
First of all, I felt was the high temperature control. I tried wearing a variety of other models, and despite this model's thinnest and lightest fabric (150g/m2), it still retains warmth that is comparable to icebreaker's merino wool (200g/m2) . And while the icebreaker is measured at 190g, the SmartWool is surprisingly light at 150g. There is no better advantage to this outdoor feature. Of the many merino wools, I felt that this was particularly resistant to the summer heat (and also expels sweat). Of course, it is not suitable for synthetic fibers.
Next, it fits the body and is the easiest to move around. Like icebreaker, the shape fits naturally like a cut-and-sew type, and doesn't feel like it's stuck to the body, which is common with mountain base layers (the ib looks more like everyday wear). The cuffs are not forced to close, and the shape and comfort of everyday wear is no longer suitable for everyday wear in the winter. By the way, the things that foreign models wear online are pretty tight-fitting, but unless they're very macho, it won't be like that lol. In addition, it has a smooth and gentle feel created from 150/m2 thread. Furthermore, the elasticity is good, with no resistance to movement of the upper body, and there is no discomfort at all when the intense movements are moved.
Finally, regarding how to care for it, this dish is not only a regular neutral detergent to run the washing machine, but also a dryer . Honestly, I've never used it, but I feel like the icebreaker actually has a slight shrink to wash, but SmartWool hasn't really had that kind of thing at the moment.
This is not good
To be honest, I hardly see any drawbacks as a product. It can be used comfortably all year round, is breathable, heat-retaining, and durable, and is designed and comfortable to wear, so it's a bit of a stretch to see what else you're looking for. But if I had to say that, the biggest problem is that it's expensive. The yen has weakened and it has risen again. . .
Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?
I think it's perfect for a wide range of activities, mainly outdoor and sports. Plus, it's recommended all seasons. I felt that it could also be used for water sports such as camping, hiking and trekking, climbing and bouldering, stream climbing and kayaking, winter sports such as skiing, and workouts such as running, trail running and muscle training.
As usual, I recommend the thinnest 150, considering its ease of layering and mixing, but if you are using it in the harsh winter, I would like to have a thick piece. If you're a person who works in the mountains and are unsure where to start, I highly recommend this. That's how important and uncertain. It's definitely a sure thing.
