[A genuine review at my own expense] A minimalist hiker's honest rating of Workman's merino wool underwear and accessories [Can it be used in the mountains?]

With the arrival of the outdoor boom, Workman continues to create a buzz in the industry and among users

The Merino Series is a Workman staple

Merino wool is a natural material obtained from Merino sheep and is considered to be of high quality among wools, with excellent moisture-regulating, heat-retaining, and odor-resistant properties, making it well-established for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and camping

Being made from high-quality natural materials, they are generally expensive, but Workman's merino series is incredibly low priced and is a popular item that sells out every year. If you've seen merino products from outdoor brands, you might be wondering what kind of merino products are available at such low prices

How does it feel to actually use it in the mountains? (Surprisingly, there are very few reviews from people who have actually used it in the mountains.)

With this question in mind, I couldn't help but try them out. So, I tried out Workman's popular merino undershirts and accessories in the mountains, thoroughly checking them out, and I'd like to share my findings with you

In this article, the first half will review the material and feel of Workman's 100% merino wool, and the second half will introduce merino underwear and accessories in a ranking format

About the materials used in Workman's 100% "Merino" series

Workman's 100% merino series, including its "Merino wool long-sleeved crew neck shirt," uses super extra fine merino

Merino wool is generally classified into different grades, which are ranked according to the thickness of the fibers. The higher the grade, the finer the fibers and the higher the quality. Workman's 100% Merino series uses the highest grade "Super Extra Fine Merino," with a fiber thickness of 16.5 to 17.5 μm (microns) in diameter. *1 μm is 0.001 mm

Items bearing this mark are made with the finest grade of Super Extra Fine Merino wool

It's surprising that even though it uses the highest quality merino wool, it can be purchased at about 1/5 the price of outdoor brand underwear

Workman's "Merino" series

Before introducing Workman's underwear and accessories lineup, here's the conclusion

Workman's Merino series offers excellent insulation, moisture control, and odor resistance, making it a great way to fully experience the benefits of merino wool. (Cheap doesn't mean bad.)

As a first layer in low-temperature environments where warmth is a priority, it provides heat retention and moisture control, but I felt that in terms of quick-drying properties when sweating while on the move and the durability of the fabric, synthetic fiber undershirts or those made by outdoor brands would be the winner

However, when you consider the cost, Workman's underwear and accessories are still very attractive

I will review Workman's Merino series based on my impressions after wearing it in places like Yatsugatake, the Northern Alps, and Okuchichibu from autumn to early winter (where temperatures were around 5 to -5°C)

Provides moisture control and heat retention in situations where you would wear a shell jacket

In environments where the temperature is around 5 to -5°C, it's cold when you're standing still, but you feel hot when you're moving around. Even though you feel hot, on ridges and other areas you can't wear just an undershirt, so you'll have to wear a shell jacket or mid-layer for long periods of time

When you're in such conditions, you inevitably get sweaty and stuffy. Even if you're wearing a highly breathable shell jacket, you can't avoid a certain amount of stuffiness due to sweating, but because the Merino Undershirt regulates moisture, even when you sweat, you don't feel uncomfortable or sticky

In the same case, when wearing synthetic undergarments, sweating makes them difficult to dry and the sweat returns, leaving you feeling sticky and uncomfortable. However, merino absorbs moisture even when you sweat, so you don't feel stuffy (though if it becomes saturated, it will become sticky and stuffy)

Unless you are overworked and reach saturation, you will likely not feel any discomfort while you are active

As for heat retention, rather than saying it's super warm, it's more accurate to say that it doesn't get cold. Even if you move and sweat, you won't get cold when you stop. This is also a characteristic of merino wool, and even if it gets wet, its heat retention ability doesn't decrease, so it's less likely to get cold from sweat

Feels good against the skin and is not itchy, so you can wear it directly

Because it's made of jersey knit, it's particularly stretchy in the horizontal direction, so you won't feel any pressure. The texture is soft, so it's comfortable to wear and doesn't itch

Check the smell after wearing it for two days

Regarding body odor, it's up to you to decide, so please take it as a reference only, but I didn't smell even after wearing it for two whole days (according to my research)

I tried wearing it for three days as part of my daily routine, and again, I didn't notice any odor

A little thick for active underwear

In my case, I use an under layer to absorb moisture and dry quickly, and a middle layer to keep me warm. Workman's Merino wool long-sleeve crew neck shirt is thick and has good heat retention as an under layer, but I found it a little difficult to wear in temperatures between 5 and -5°C

When choosing an undergarment, the key point to consider is "What do you want from your undergarment?" This is the key to choosing the material

If you expect to sweat a lot and prioritize moisture absorption and quick drying, synthetic fibers are a good choice, while merino wool is a good choice if you prioritize warmth, moisture control, and odor prevention. For those who need moisture absorption and quick drying, but also want warmth, moisture control, and odor prevention, a hybrid undershirt made from a blend of wool and synthetic fibers would be a better fit. Workman's Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crew Neck Shirt is a recommended undershirt for those who prioritize warmth

In addition to the choice of material, the thickness of the fabric also comes into play, so although it may just be underwear, it has a bottomless depth to it..

I tend to get quite cold easily, but I tend to sweat a lot when I'm out and about for long periods of time. I find it more comfortable to use a thin under layer as my first layer, and then regulate my body temperature with a mid-layer, gloves, and a neck warmer

There are concerns about durability. It is not suitable for long-term hiking

Merino wool has the advantage of being odor-resistant, so it is a material that you would want to use for a long time, but I am concerned about its durability

Merino wool is a natural material and is inherently less durable than synthetic fabrics such as polyester, and is prone to pilling. However, after wearing it a few times, the seams started to tear and the stitching started to fray (I sewed it back up and am still using it)

It's possible that the one I purchased just happened to have a problem, but honestly, when it comes to long-term mountain climbing or trails that are intended for heavy use, I would still prefer to choose underwear from an outdoor brand

Our ranking of Workman's "Merino" underwear and accessories!

I was aware of the crew neck shirts and tights, but there was also a wide range of other excellent accessories in the lineup

From here on, I will introduce six Workman underwear and accessories in a ranking format, in order of my personal preference

No. 1: Keep your belly warm when it's hot or cold! Waist warmer (belly warmer)

I'm wearing it over a T-shirt for the photo shoot, but you can actually wear it directly under a T-shirt

The best thing I've tried is this waist warmer (belly warmer)

Actually, this is my first time using a waist warmer

I tend to get quite sensitive to the cold, so I was surprised at how comfortable this item was, just keeping my stomach warm

Even in winter, you want to wear light clothing when climbing low mountains, but a T-shirt alone can be too cold. On the other hand, it's too hot to wear a fleece. That's when a waist warmer (belly warmer) comes in handy

It's a free size, measuring 37cm long x 32cm wide when laid flat. It's highly stretchable and can accommodate waists from 76-104cm. It won't slide down while you're moving around, and it keeps your stomach warm. It's convenient for keeping warm while camping, and I also use it for everyday running

The actual weight is 48.3g. It might be a good option to consider when you are unsure whether to add an extra layer of cold weather clothing

No. 2: Seamless transition between the mountains and the city. Boxer shorts are sure to become a staple

Boxer shorts are a part of the body where many layers of clothing overlap, both in summer and winter, so the moisture-regulating properties of merino are particularly noticeable. It's great that you don't feel stuffy around the crotch

I used to wear U-Niclo boxers in my daily life. I adjusted the underwear I wore depending on my mountain climbing plans so that I could wear Merino boxers on the day of the hike. However, with Merino boxers costing just 980 yen, it's easy to buy enough to wear 7 days a week (cost-wise)

One thing that bothers me is the position of the seam on the back side (buttocks side). It's fine when sitting on a cushioned chair, but when sitting on a hard chair, the seam becomes noticeable (although not painfully)

The back seam is a bit of a concern when sitting down

No. 3: Protect yourself from the cold by wearing a neck warmer!

The golden rule for battling the cold is to keep the three "necks" warm. Keeping the neck, wrists, and ankles warm, where large blood vessels pass, is an effective way to protect yourself from the cold

I think it's quite common to find yourself in a situation where your body is hot after a long period of hiking, but your face is just cold

Workman's neck warmer is about 50cm long, so it can cover your nose. It keeps your neck warm while you're on the move and also prevents your face from getting cold

Neck warmers are simply cylindrical, but they are also versatile and can be worn as a headband to keep your ears warm

You can choose between thicknesses of 3 and 4 for your neck warmer, so if you're using it while on the move, choose 3. If you're looking for protection from the cold, choose the thicker 4

4th place: The classic long-sleeved crew neck shirt. Choose different thicknesses depending on the occasion

The classic of classics: the long-sleeved crew neck shirt. I would recommend this for everyday wear. It's so useful (in terms of price and functionality)

There are two fabric thickness levels. If you are looking for an undershirt for active activities, we recommend choosing fabric thickness level "3." If you are looking for everyday use in the middle of winter or to keep warm while camping, you can choose the thicker type with fabric thickness level "4."

The raglan style means it doesn't restrict movement and you can wear it without worrying about shoulder width (thickness level 4 types have a slightly different shape)

Perhaps because it is intended to be worn as an undershirt, the sleeves are slightly shorter, so your undershirt won't show when you wear it under a top. I usually choose a size M for Patagonia undershirts, but I chose a size LL for Workman's undershirt, which was just right

The price for "Fabric Thickness Level 3" is 1,900 yen, and for "Fabric Thickness Level 4" it is 2,900 yen (prices include tax, as of December 2024)

This is an attractive option for those who want to wear merino undershirts seven days a week but are hesitant to do so due to the price. Wearing merino on a daily basis makes it easy to move seamlessly between the mountains and town

No. 5: Balaclava for more active activities

When doing more active activities such as speed hiking, running, skiing, or snowboarding, neck warmers tend to slip off. In such cases, a balaclava is the answer

It provides excellent heat retention as it covers everything except the eyes, and also covers the head for excellent heat retention. It can be worn under a helmet or knit cap

One concern is that it is difficult to dry once it gets wet from breathing, but its heat retention ability does not decrease even when it gets wet, so it is not uncomfortable to wear

I was a bit concerned about the stitching where the seams were at the mouth, but for the price of 1,280 yen I have no complaints

Since the emphasis is on heat retention, the fabric thickness level is only 4

It's a shame that the seam is at the center (nose)

The actual weight is 46g. Because it uses thick fabric, it is a little heavier than synthetic fiber types, but considering that it is prone to attracting saliva from exhalation, the odor-resistant properties of wool are attractive

No. 6: Long tights with a great fit and ease of movement

Long tights are the second most popular after crew neck shirts. They fit better than crew neck shirts and adhere closely to the body, so you can wear them under your regular pants

The hem seems to be shorter, perhaps because it's designed to be worn with hiking boots or other boots (it works well with longer socks)

Keeping your lower body warm is also important when hiking or trekking in autumn and winter. Even if you regulate the temperature of your upper body with layers, you will feel cold if you neglect your lower body. The lower body contains the largest muscles in the human body (the thighs), so keeping your thighs well-insulated is the best way to protect yourself from the cold

Back side: Sewn for ease of movement

The crotch area is designed to allow for easy movement, with a gusseted crotch

The long tights are only available in "fabric thickness level 3" and cost 1,900 yen

Summary: The Merino Underwear series is a great way to keep warm at campsites or for day hikes in the winter, so it's definitely worth buying!

We reviewed Workman's merino undershirts and introduced some recommended merino items

I've been wearing underwear from outdoor brands for a while now, and Workman's Merino underwear is soft and comfortable. You can really feel the characteristics of Merino wool, but I honestly feel like it doesn't hold up to the underwear from outdoor brands that are packed with technology, such as stitching details, durability, and blends

However, I wonder if it's really worth putting it on the same level in terms of price... after all, it's an excellent value for money

If you look closely, outdoor brand underwear may win out, but when you consider the balance between price and quality, it's no wonder they're so popular

The Workman Merino series has many benefits for keeping you warm, and from a hiker's perspective, I feel it is more suitable for wearing on light mountain trips rather than for long-term, tough situations!

Enjoy the outdoors comfortably this winter with Workman's Merino series!

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Yosuke

A person who travels around with just one backpack, with the motto of "as light as possible" without causing inconvenience

From spring to autumn, I go fishing in mountain streams in pursuit of char deep in the mountains. I hike the mountains in search of spectacular views that cannot be seen from the ground. I camp to relax by a bonfire. I snowboard to experience the feeling of floating in the silvery white mountains

A freelance writer who enjoys the outdoors all year round, he shares his experiences and the best gear he has used

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