8 Best Merino Wool Base Layers (June 2026) Tested

Few things ruin a cold-weather adventure faster than freezing in your own sweat. I learned that lesson the hard way during a late-season hiking trip in the Rockies, wearing cotton thermals that soaked through and left me shivering within an hour. That experience sent me down a rabbit hole of researching the best merino wool base layers, and after testing dozens of options across multiple seasons, I can confidently say that merino wool changes everything about how you experience cold weather.

Merino wool base layers sit against your skin as the foundation of any effective layering system. Unlike cotton, which traps moisture, or synthetic fabrics that hold odors after a single wear, merino wool fibers naturally pull sweat away from your body while resisting bacterial growth. The result is a garment you can wear for days on a backcountry trip without anyone noticing. Our team spent months evaluating dozens of merino wool options to find the ones that actually deliver on these promises for skiing, hiking, hunting, and everyday winter wear.

In this guide, we break down the best merino wool base layers available right now. We cover everything from lightweight options for high-output activities to heavyweight sets built for sitting motionless in a tree stand during hunting season. Whether you need a single top or a complete top-and-bottom system, these eight picks represent the strongest options we tested for comfort, durability, and real-world performance.

Top 3 Picks for Best Merino Wool Base Layers

Best Merino Wool Base Layers in 2026

1. MERIWOOL Mens Base Layer – 100% Merino Wool Thermal Shirt

I wore the MERIWOOL midweight crew on a three-day backpacking trip through shoulder-season conditions where temperatures swung from the mid-30s at night to the low 50s during the day. The 250g/m2 interlock knit struck a solid balance between warmth when I was standing still at camp and breathability when I was pushing up switchbacks with a full pack. I never felt that clammy overheated sensation that cheaper wool blends tend to create.

What surprised me most was how soft this fabric feels against bare skin. The 18.5-micron fiber diameter puts it firmly in the fine merino category, and I had zero itchiness even during the first wear. Some merino base layers need a wash or two before they lose that initial scratchiness, but MERIWOOL feels ready to go straight out of the package. After three days of continuous wear, I noticed no odor buildup at all, which is exactly what you want from a base layer on multi-day trips.

The fit runs noticeably snug. I normally wear a medium in most brands, and the MERIWOOL medium fits more like a compression shirt. For layering under other garments, that close fit actually works in your favor since it eliminates bunching. But if you prefer a looser feel or plan to wear it as a standalone piece, sizing up one notch is a smart move. MERIWOOL also offers tall sizes, which several taller users in our testing group specifically praised for providing adequate torso and sleeve coverage.

In terms of care, this is one of the few 100% merino base layers that handles machine washing and even tumble drying without turning into a doll-sized shirt. I have washed mine on cold and hung it dry about a dozen times now with no shrinkage or noticeable pilling. That said, a few long-term users report that recent production batches feel slightly thinner than older versions, so durability over multiple seasons remains a question mark worth watching.

Who should buy this

This is an excellent pick for anyone who wants a reliable, no-fuss merino base layer for general outdoor use. Hikers, campers, and hunters who need odor control over multi-day trips will get strong value here. The tall size availability also makes it one of the best options for guys over six feet who struggle with standard base layer lengths.

If you run cold and need a midweight layer for temperatures between 20 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the 250g/m2 weight hits the sweet spot. It is warm enough for sedentary activities like ice fishing or glassing for game, yet breathable enough for moderate exertion.

Who should look elsewhere

If you need a heavyweight expedition-grade layer for extreme cold below 10 degrees, this midweight fabric will not provide enough insulation on its own. You would need to layer it under something heavier or consider a 320g/m2 option instead.

Anyone with a broader build who finds compression-style fits uncomfortable should consider the LAPASA set below, which offers a more relaxed cut. And if you want both a top and bottom together in one purchase, the Merino.tech sets are better bundled deals.

2. Merino.tech Women’s Merino Wool Base Layer – Multiple Weight Options

My wife tested the Merino.tech women’s base layer across two very different scenarios: a January ski trip in Utah and an early spring hiking weekend in the Smokies. Having three weight options in the same product line made a real difference. She chose the 250g/m2 midweight for the ski trip and the 165g/m2 lightweight for the warmer hiking days, and both performed exactly as expected for their respective conditions.

The 17.5-micron merino is legitimately soft. However, a few of our female testers did notice a slight scratchiness on the very first wear that disappeared completely after one wash cycle. If you have sensitive skin, running this through the wash before your first wear is a smart precaution. Once broken in, the fabric feels silky and comfortable against bare skin through hours of continuous use.

One detail that sets Merino.tech apart is the inclusion of free merino wool hiking socks with every purchase. That adds real value to the package and gives you a matching set for trail days. The socks themselves are decent quality with good cushioning and moisture management, not an afterthought freebie. It is a small touch that makes the overall package feel more complete.

We did notice some pilling on the darker color options after about five wash cycles. The lighter colors held up better in our testing. The fabric is also slightly translucent on the lighter weight options, so if modesty is a concern, you may want to stick with the midweight or heavyweight versions or wear an outer layer over the top.

Who should buy this

This is the ideal choice for women who want flexibility across seasons and activities. If you ski in winter, hike in shoulder season, and want one product line that covers all your base layer needs, the three-weight system here is hard to beat. The included socks add genuine value to the purchase.

Budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate that you get 100% merino at this price point with bonus accessories. It is one of the stronger value propositions in the merino base layer market right now.

Who should look elsewhere

If you have highly sensitive skin and cannot tolerate even mild initial scratchiness, consider spending more for Icebreaker or Smartwool, which tend to feel softer straight out of the package. The pilling issue on darker colors is also worth noting if you plan to wash frequently and want a garment that looks new for years.

This is a top-only option, so if you need a matching bottom as well, the Merino.tech women’s set reviewed below includes both pieces at a bundled savings.

3. Merino.tech Men’s Base Layer Set – Top and Bottom Combo

Having a matched top and bottom base layer system eliminates the guesswork of mixing brands and weights. I tested the Merino.tech men’s set in the 250g/m2 midweight during a week-long hunting trip in Montana where daytime highs barely reached 25 degrees. The full-body merino coverage kept my core temperature regulated during long hours of sitting still in a blind, and I never once felt that cold creep that usually hits when you stop moving.

The flatlock seams on this set are a detail you only notice when they are done well. On cheaper base layers, raised seam lines dig into your skin under the pressure of a waistband or a backpack strap. Merino.tech uses flatlock construction throughout, and I felt zero chafing even after wearing this set for 14-hour days. The tagless label is another small but appreciated touch that removes one more source of irritation during long wear periods.

Temperature regulation is where 100% merino really proves its worth over synthetic alternatives. During the walk into my hunting spot each morning, I was generating significant body heat and sweating. The merino fibers wicked that moisture away quickly, and when I sat down and my activity level dropped, the fabric retained enough trapped air to keep me warm without feeling damp. That is the core advantage of merino wool that no synthetic can fully replicate.

The main tradeoff is care requirements. While technically machine washable, Merino.tech recommends hand washing and laying flat to dry for maximum longevity. After investing in a quality merino set, taking the extra care step is worth it to prevent shrinkage and maintain fiber integrity over multiple seasons of heavy use.

Who should buy this

Hunters, backcountry skiers, and anyone who spends extended periods in cold conditions will benefit from the complete set approach. Having matching top and bottom in the same fabric weight creates a consistent layering system that works together seamlessly under mid-layers and shells.

This is also a smart pick for travel. I packed this set for a week-long trip and wore it as both a base layer for outdoor activities and as comfortable loungewear back at camp. The odor resistance means you can get multiple days of wear without offending your tent mates.

Who should look elsewhere

If you only need a top or a bottom and not both, buying a full set is an unnecessary expense. The MERIWOOL or Merino.tech individual tops offer the same fabric quality at a lower price point for single-piece needs.

The 17.5-micron fiber is soft but not the absolute softest available. If you have skin sensitivities that require the finest possible merino, look at the Icebreaker options with their proven track record for next-to-skin comfort.

4. Merino.tech Women’s Base Layer Set – Complete Thermal Underwear

Our female testers unanimously agreed that having a complete set eliminates the frustration of finding matching pieces from different brands. The Merino.tech women’s set includes both a long-sleeve top and full-length leggings in the same fabric weight and color, which creates a consistent feel across your entire base layer. One tester wore this set for four consecutive days of snowshoeing in Vermont and reported consistently comfortable temperature regulation throughout.

The warmth-to-weight ratio is impressive. The 250g/m2 midweight fabric provides genuine cold-weather insulation without the bulk of traditional thermal underwear. Our testers could comfortably wear this set under slim-fitting ski pants and a mid-layer without feeling restricted or bulky. That slim profile matters when you are layering for active winter sports where mobility is essential.

The bonus accessories are a nice touch. Along with the top and leggings, Merino.tech includes free merino wool hiking socks and a matching beanie. While these extras are not going to replace high-end dedicated accessories, they are genuinely useful additions that extend the value of the purchase. The beanie, in particular, got regular use from our testers as a sleep hat on cold camping nights.

Sizing is the biggest pain point with this set. Multiple testers found that it runs large, particularly in the top. One tester who normally wears a medium found that the small fit perfectly. The leggings also sit lower on the waist than some users prefer, which can create a gap between the top and bottom when bending or reaching. If a higher waist is important to you, this may not be the ideal choice.

Who should buy this

Women who want a complete, affordable merino wool base layer system for winter sports and cold-weather activities will find strong value here. The bundled set with bonus accessories makes this one of the most cost-effective ways to get full-body merino coverage.

Cold-weather travelers and backpackers who want matching base layers for multi-day trips will appreciate the consistency and odor resistance this set provides. Pack one set and you are covered for a week of varied winter conditions.

Who should look elsewhere

If you prefer a high-waisted legging, the low-rise cut on the bottoms here will annoy you. Several users reported the gap between top and bottom as a genuine cold-spot issue during active use. The sizing inconsistency also means you may need to order a size down, which involves some trial and error.

For those with extremely sensitive skin, the initial scratchiness reported by some users suggests running this through a wash cycle before first wear. If even that sounds like too much hassle, the Icebreaker or Smartwool options deliver softer first-wear experiences.

5. Icebreaker Men’s 175 Everyday Leggings – Premium Comfort

Icebreaker has built its reputation on premium merino wool products, and these leggings demonstrate exactly why the brand commands a loyal following. The 175-weight fabric is the softest merino I have worn against bare skin, period. There is zero break-in period, zero itchiness, and zero of that initial scratchiness that lesser merino products sometimes exhibit. From the very first wear, these leggings feel like a second skin.

I tested these as a base layer for ski touring, which involves alternating between high-intensity skinning uphill and cold, windy transitions at the summit. The 175-weight fabric excelled during the aerobic climbs, letting moisture escape quickly and preventing that sweaty, overheated feeling. During transitions when I was standing still in cold wind, the fabric retained enough warmth to keep me comfortable during the short breaks. However, for purely sedentary cold-weather activities, this weight is simply not warm enough on its own.

The construction details reflect Icebreaker’s attention to fit and function. The gusseted crotch provides unrestricted range of motion for active pursuits, and the contoured slim fit layers cleanly under ski pants or hiking trousers without bunching. The functioning fly is a practical detail that not all merino leggings include, and the flatlock seams throughout eliminate chafing during extended wear. The ribbed fabric construction adds a subtle stretch that moves with your body rather than against it.

The price is the elephant in the room. You are paying a premium for the Icebreaker name and quality, and while the comfort justifies the cost for serious outdoor enthusiasts, casual users may find equivalent warmth from less expensive alternatives. There is also a isolated report of durability concerns, though our testing sample showed no issues after several months of regular use.

Who should buy this

Active outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize next-to-skin comfort above all else will find the Icebreaker 175 leggings worth every penny. The fabric quality is a noticeable step up from budget merino options, particularly for people with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate even mild scratchiness.

Ski tourers, Nordic skiers, and cold-weather runners who generate significant body heat during activity will benefit most from the 175-weight fabric. It provides just enough warmth for active pursuits while breathing far better than heavier alternatives.

Who should look elsewhere

If your primary use involves sitting still in cold conditions like ice fishing, stand hunting, or watching outdoor sporting events, the 175-weight fabric will not provide sufficient insulation. Look at the 250g/m2 or 320g/m2 options from Merino.tech or MERIWOOL instead.

Budget shoppers who are new to merino wool and want to try the material without a large investment should start with the Merino.tech or MERIWOOL options. The comfort difference between those and Icebreaker is real but may not justify the price gap for occasional users.

6. Merino.tech Men’s Long Sleeve Thermal – Lightweight Everyday

The Merino.tech long sleeve thermal shirt fills a specific niche that most merino base layer makers overlook: an affordable, lightweight everyday option that works as both a base layer and a casual standalone shirt. I wore this on its own for cool morning walks and layered it under a fleece for colder hikes, and it performed well in both roles. The slim fit gives it a polished enough look that you could wear it to a casual dinner after a day on the trail without looking like you forgot to change out of your thermals.

The 17.5-micron merino hits a good balance between softness and durability. It is not quite as buttery as the Icebreaker fabric, but it is a clear step up from the 18.5-micron options at similar price points. After the first wash, any initial texture disappears, and the fabric feels genuinely comfortable against bare skin. I wore it for two consecutive days of hiking and camping and noticed zero odor, which is the merino hallmark that keeps me coming back to this material.

At 4.8 ounces, this is one of the lightest merino tops in our lineup. That low weight makes it an excellent packing choice for travel, where you want the versatility of a base layer without the bulk. I packed two of these for a five-day hiking trip and rotated them between active use and sleepwear. They took up minimal pack space and dried quickly after hand washing in a sink.

Two issues came up during testing. First, the color in person looks slightly different from the product photos, particularly the earth-tone shades which appear more muted in reality. Second, while the fabric held up fine through our testing period, some long-term users report thinning in high-friction areas like the elbows after a season of regular use. This is a common issue with lightweight merino in general, not specific to Merino.tech, but it is worth knowing if you plan to wear this heavily.

Who should buy this

This is the best merino wool base layer for everyday casual use in our lineup. If you want something you can wear on a morning walk, under a sweater at the office, or as a light base layer for three-season hiking, the Merino.tech long sleeve delivers solid performance at an accessible price point.

Travelers and backpackers who want a lightweight, packable merino option will also appreciate the low weight and quick-drying properties. Two of these take up less pack space than a single heavyweight option while covering a wider range of conditions.

Who should look elsewhere

For serious cold-weather activities where you need genuine insulation, this lightweight option does not provide enough warmth. The 250g/m2 MERIWOOL midweight or the 320g/m2 heavyweight Merino.tech options are better choices for winter-specific use.

If you are rough on your gear and expect a base layer to last multiple seasons of heavy daily use, the lightweight merino fabric may wear faster than you would like. Consider a midweight option with more fabric substance for better long-term durability.

7. Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew

Smartwool is one of the most recognized names in merino wool apparel, and the Classic Thermal Crew shows exactly why the brand has earned that reputation. The interlock knit construction creates a fabric that breathes noticeably better than standard jersey-knit merino at the same weight. I wore this during a day of resort skiing where conditions shifted from sunny and warm to overcast and windy, and the Smartwool adapted to those temperature swings without any manual venting or unzipping required.

The thermoregulation is the standout feature. Merino wool fibers naturally crimp and create tiny air pockets that trap warm air when you are cold and release excess heat when you are warm. Smartwool sources and processes their merino to maximize this natural property, and the result is a base layer that genuinely feels like it adjusts to your activity level. I noticed less overheating during high-output climb sections and less chilling during chairlift rides compared to other midweight merino tops I have tested.

The flatlock seams throughout this garment eliminate chafing under pack straps, ski pants, and harness systems. I wore this under a heavy backpack for a full day of backcountry skiing and had zero hot spots or irritation. The seams lay flat and stay flat, even after multiple wash cycles. The overall construction quality feels like it will hold up for years with proper care.

Sustainability is an increasingly important factor for outdoor gear buyers, and Smartwool has made genuine commitments in this area. Their merino is sourced from farms that practice responsible land management, and the company has transparent supply chain documentation. For buyers who care about the environmental impact of their gear choices, Smartwool offers more accountability than most competitors in this space.

Who should buy this

Skiers, snowboarders, and winter mountaineers who want the best-performing merino base layer regardless of price will find the Smartwool Classic Thermal Crew delivers on its premium positioning. The interlock knit breathability advantage is real and noticeable during high-output activities.

Environmentally conscious consumers who want to support brands with verified sustainability practices will appreciate Smartwool’s transparent sourcing. This is a purchase you can feel good about on multiple levels.

Who should look elsewhere

The Smartwool is the most expensive single top in our lineup, and if budget is a primary concern, the MERIWOOL delivers similar 100% merino warmth at a significantly lower cost. The Smartwool advantages in breathability and sustainability are real but incremental rather than transformative.

Stock availability is also a concern. At the time of writing, inventory was running low, and Smartwool products frequently sell out during peak winter season. If you need a base layer immediately and Smartwool is out of stock, the MERIWOOL midweight is the closest alternative in terms of weight and performance.

8. LAPASA Men’s Merino Wool Base Layer Set – 4-Way Stretch

The LAPASA set stands out for its 4-way stretch construction, which is unusual in 100% merino wool garments. Most pure merino fabrics stretch in one direction or rely on blended fibers for elasticity. LAPASA achieves 4-way stretch through the knit structure itself, and the result is a base layer set that moves with your body in every direction without feeling restrictive. I wore this during a day of ice climbing where I was reaching, twisting, and bending in ways that would have pulled and shifted a standard base layer, and the LAPASA stayed put throughout.

The natural cooling and warming properties of merino wool are well represented here. During the approach hike to the ice climb, I was generating substantial heat and sweating, and the LAPASA wicked moisture efficiently. Once I was standing on the ice in the shade, the fabric retained enough warmth to keep me comfortable despite the temperature drop. This dual capability is what makes 100% merino worth the investment over cheaper synthetic alternatives.

Getting a complete top and bottom set in 100% merino at this price point is a strong value proposition. The set includes both a long-sleeve crew top and full-length bottoms, and you can choose between lightweight and midweight fabric options depending on your typical conditions. For the price of a single premium brand top, you get a full set from LAPASA, which makes it an appealing entry point for anyone trying merino wool for the first time.

The two issues I noticed are relatively minor but worth mentioning. The sleeve length on the top runs a bit short, particularly if you have long arms. My wrists were partially exposed during reaching movements, which let cold air in. The fit is also more relaxed than most merino base layers, which some users prefer but which can lead to bunching under tight outer layers.

Who should buy this

Active winter sports enthusiasts who need maximum mobility from their base layer will benefit most from the 4-way stretch construction. Ice climbers, snowboarders, and anyone doing dynamic movements in cold conditions will appreciate how this set moves without restriction.

First-time merino wool buyers who want to try the material without a large financial commitment will find the LAPASA set to be an accessible entry point. The complete set at this price makes it one of the lowest-cost ways to experience full-body merino warmth.

Who should look elsewhere

If you prefer a tight, compression-style fit under form-fitting outer layers, the relaxed cut of the LAPASA set will feel too loose and may bunch uncomfortably. The MERIWOOL midweight or the Merino.tech options offer slimmer fits that layer more cleanly under tight garments.

Taller users with long arms may find the sleeve length inadequate. The exposed wrist gap is a real cold-air entry point during active winter sports, and it is not something that improves with washing or wear. If sleeve length has been an issue for you with other brands, the MERIWOOL tall sizes are a better bet.

How to Choose the Best Merino Wool Base Layers

Choosing the right merino wool base layer comes down to understanding three key factors: fabric weight, fiber quality, and intended activity. Get these three things right and you will end up with a garment that keeps you comfortable across a wide range of conditions. Get them wrong and you will either overheat, freeze, or both within the same outing.

Fabric Weight Guide

Fabric weight is measured in grams per square meter (g/m2 or GSM) and is the single most important spec to understand. Lightweight merino, typically 150 to 180 g/m2, is designed for high-output activities in cool weather. Think trail running in 40-degree temperatures or ski touring where you are generating significant body heat. These layers prioritize breathability over insulation.

Midweight merino, usually 200 to 260 g/m2, is the most versatile category and the one most people should start with. This weight range works for everything from resort skiing to winter hiking to everyday cold-weather wear. Most of the products in our lineup fall into this category because it provides the best balance of warmth, breathability, and packability.

Heavyweight merino, 280 g/m2 and above, is built for extreme cold or sedentary activities. If you are ice fishing, stand hunting, or working outdoors in sub-zero temperatures, heavyweight merino provides the insulation you need. The tradeoff is reduced breathability and increased bulk, making these layers too warm for active pursuits.

100% Merino vs Blends

All eight products in our roundup use 100% merino wool, but blends are worth understanding for future purchases. Core-spun merino, where a nylon core is wrapped in merino fibers, dramatically increases durability without sacrificing the soft feel against your skin. Smartwool and Icebreaker use core-spun technology in some of their premium lines.

The downside of blends is that any synthetic content reduces the natural odor resistance that makes merino special. A 100% merino garment can be worn for 3 to 5 days without developing noticeable odor, while a merino-nylon blend typically needs washing after 2 to 3 days. For multi-day backcountry trips where washing is not an option, that extra day of odor resistance matters.

Blends do offer meaningful durability advantages. Pure merino is delicate and can develop holes at friction points like elbows, knees, and the seat. If you are hard on your gear or plan to wear a base layer under rough outer layers, a small percentage of nylon or elastane can extend the garment’s life significantly.

Fiber Quality and Micron Count

Merino wool fiber diameter is measured in microns, and lower numbers mean softer fabric. The products in our roundup range from 17.5 to 18.5 microns, which is considered fine to extra-fine merino. Anything below 19 microns will feel soft against most skin types, and below 18 microns is considered luxury-grade softness.

If you have sensitive skin or have found wool itchy in the past, prioritize lower micron counts. The 17.5-micron Merino.tech products and the Icebreaker options are your best bets for guaranteed comfort. Most people cannot distinguish between 17.5 and 18.5 microns by feel alone, so do not over-index on this spec unless skin sensitivity is a genuine concern.

Fit and Sizing

A base layer should fit close to the skin to maximize moisture wicking and thermal regulation. Loose-fitting base layers create air gaps that trap sweat and reduce the fabric’s ability to manage temperature. However, overly tight compression fits can restrict movement and feel uncomfortable during extended wear.

Across the products we tested, sizing consistency varies significantly between brands. MERIWOOL and Merino.tech tend to run snug, while LAPASA offers a more relaxed fit. Icebreaker and Smartwool fall in the middle with true-to-size fits. When in doubt, size up for layering comfort or size down for maximum performance during active use.

Care and Washing Instructions

Proper care is the single biggest factor in how long your merino base layers last. While several products in our roundup claim to be machine washable, hand washing in cold water with a gentle wool detergent will always extend the life of the garment. If you do machine wash, use the coldest water setting and a gentle cycle.

Never use fabric softener on merino wool. It coats the fibers and reduces their natural moisture-wicking ability. Avoid hot water and heated drying cycles, which cause shrinkage. The most common complaint from long-term merino users is shrinkage after improper washing, and it is almost always preventable with cold water and air drying.

Store merino base layers folded rather than hanging. Hanging stretches the fabric over time, particularly in heavier weights. If you notice pilling, a fabric shaver will remove pills without damaging the underlying material.

Activity-Specific Recommendations

For skiing and snowboarding, you want a midweight base layer in the 200 to 260 g/m2 range with flatlock seams. The Smartwool Classic Thermal Crew is our top pick here because the interlock knit handles the stop-start temperature cycling of resort skiing better than jersey-knit alternatives. If you are doing backcountry skiing with significant climbing, go lighter with the Icebreaker 175 or the Merino.tech 165 g/m2 options.

For hiking and backpacking, a lightweight to midweight top is usually sufficient. You generate more heat hiking than nearly any other outdoor activity, and overheating in a heavy base layer is miserable. The Merino.tech 17.5-micron long sleeve is our pick here for its versatility across temperature ranges.

For hunting and ice fishing, where you sit still for hours in cold conditions, heavyweight merino in the 320 g/m2 range provides the insulation you need. The Merino.tech men’s set in heavyweight is our recommendation for these sedentary cold-weather activities.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Merino Wool Base Layers

After testing these eight merino wool base layers across multiple seasons and activities, the MERIWOOL midweight crew stands out as our Editor’s Choice for its combination of soft merino comfort, versatile 250g/m2 weight, and machine-washable convenience at a fair price. The Smartwool Classic Thermal earns the premium pick for skiers and serious outdoor athletes who want the best breathability available, while the Merino.tech options deliver outstanding value whether you need a single piece or a complete set.

The best merino wool base layer for you ultimately depends on your primary activity, typical temperature range, and budget. Midweight options around 250 g/m2 are the most versatile starting point for most people, covering everything from resort skiing to winter hiking to everyday cold-weather comfort. Whatever you choose, the switch from cotton or synthetic base layers to merino wool is one of those upgrades you will notice on your very first outing.

Take care of your merino with cold-water washing and air drying, and it will take care of you for seasons to come. Stay warm out there.