Polyester vs merino wool base layer Choosing between Merino wool and polyester can prove problematic as they have properties that make them desirable to different people. I want to get some Merino wool base layers but the 100% merino wool are outside my budget. Mar 16, 2022 · Two popular options include the all-natural fibers of merino wool vs. Apr 23, 2022 · Breathability: winner (merino for a base layer, polyester for a mid-layer) If we compare similarly thick merino and polyester fabric, merino is the undisputed winner. We offer that in a 150 weight, which is really lightweight merino wool, and a 300 weight, with a little bit of spandex added for comfortable wearing, and that is our mid-weight merino wool. The Men’s Merino 250 Wool Active ¼ Zip Outerwear is crafted with an interlock knit for improved odor-resistance, thermoregulation, breathability, and comfort. Synthetic base layers will largely be made from polyester and polyester blends. Jan 5, 2022 · Smartwool Men's Base Layer Top - Merino 250 Wool Active 1/4 Zip Outerwear. It seems I alternate between synthetic and merino depending on the length of the trip in order to manage the stink factor. , or a combination of the two. (btw, I buy merino from varusteleka. Merino wool mid-layers use wool with a density from 200 g/m 2 to 400 g/m 2 and thus in average weigh from 350 g to 700 g per garment. So it’s obvious that we think merino wool is great. Polyester is occasionally also used for (super lightweight or low-end) pants. In our opinion 400 g/m 2 Merino wool mid-layers offer similar warmth as 200 g/m 2 Polartec fleece. The next order of business in choosing a baselayer is deciding on the type of material you want. Super soft; Lightweight breathability Nov 10, 2021 · Cotton is unsuitable for a technical base layer as the fabric soaks up moisture and draws heat away from the body leaving the wearer cold and uncomfortable. Merino wool base layers are best suited to mild – cold weather or stop-start activities like hiking and climbing. Below I have set out to review the basic advantages and disadvantages of the key materials and Jan 13, 2025 · Rab’s Syncrino is a 125gsm merino blend base layer tee, made from recycled polyester and merino wool. Merino wool comes from a specific breed of sheep that live at higher elevations in New Zealand. Favorite features of Merino wool base layers are that they are warm when wet, are odor resistant, sustainable, and soft. Feb 2, 2023 · Dozens of pairs of ultralight merino layers have perished during that same time. It provides warmth, breathability, and odor resistance, making it a Nov 12, 2021 · Neither merino nor polyester will keep you warm when wet (and your base layers aren't for insulation anyway, that's what fleece, sweaters and puffy coats are for. I then compare the performance of these base layers with those of the polyester base layers I have recently reviewed. Oct 25, 2022 · In this paper, I subject base layers in various weights made from merino, merino blends, and alpaca to the suite of tests I have developed to evaluate base layer performance. For base layer clothing, you want Merino wool that is graded as Ultrafine, Superfine, or Extra Fine, as anything coarser isn’t comfortable to be worn directly against the skin. The fabric is an 88% merino wool and 12% nylon blend that weaves in the advantages of both natural and synthetic fibers. Polyester. Sep 26, 2022 · 2. Cotton When comparing base layer materials, Merino wool and polyester are superior choices compared to cotton. Feb 25, 2024 · When a merino base layer is the best choice. Odor resistance is still pretty good. , lift skiing), but lighter weight merino layers are very fragile. The Chinook Series , with Merino6™ technology, is incredibly breathable for wool fabric. These sheep have very fine, soft wool fibers that contain lanolin, a natural antibacterial agent. There are manufacturers that make combination merino wool and polypropylene base layers. These base layers will keep the wearer warm when combined with ski wear. It offers more warmth than a similar weight synthetic top but has less insulating ability than any of the other options here – you might want a cosier and chunkier layer if you tend to feel the cold. Bamboo Pros. Merino wool or normal wool may be heavier but it breathes better. The Warm Ones Jan 7, 2018 · Let's compare the two quarter-zip garments: The Capilene Expedition 1/4 zip and the GT Mid-Weight 1/4 zip. I think it boils down to this: wool is the best weight to warmth ratio, but if you’re optimizing for weight, and don’t need the same amount of warmth, synthetic is the better option…it’s not as though a 1lb/ ~450g wool base layer is going to let you feel comfortable in considerably colder temperatures than a 1lb /~450g synthetic would…unless you’re very sensitive to temperature Dec 3, 2018 · The main reason for this is that they are relatively heavy for the warmth that they provide. And at Ultimate Gear Lists merino wool is hands down our favourite material for hiking baselayers. REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew Top; REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Bottoms; Middle-of-the-Road. In this paper, I subject base layers in various weights made from merino, merino blends, and alpaca to the suite of tests I have developed to evaluate base layer performance. LL Bean is a pretty reliable source for quality base layers. How would they stack up to 100% Adding polyester or nylon to Merino significantly increases durability and reduces stretching/sag after several days of use. Merino wool has the following characteristics: Nov 13, 2024 · For the full rundown of how alpaca performs compared to merino, check out our Merino Wool vs. I've worn both extensively. Available in both short and long sleeves and in ¾ length or full-length trousers, the Mount Merino series is perfect for skiing and similar higher-intensity activities in cold weather where you don’t want Apr 23, 2021 · Wool Vs. When it comes to base layers you’re usually faced with the choice of a garment made from wool or from man-made fibres like polyester, spandex or elastane. Alpaca: Battle of the Base Layers. This breed of sheep first developed in the 12th century and was likely descended from Moroccan sheep breeds. Oct 29, 2020 · Polyester vs Wool Suit. For Smart wool and branded outdoor base layers I wash on cold and hang dry. Oct 17, 2024 · It’s thin and breathable for when the sun is out but also a cozy base layer for cool nights in the 50s. Fleece base layers use these short fibers to create a capillary action to wick sweat away from the skin. When it comes to hiking base layers, for example, Merino wool is a preferable choice since it is naturally antibacterial (which is especially important on multi-day journeys), but polyester is the best material for racing base layers because such clothing may be quite lightweight. The polyester suit will be lighter as it can be woven in very thin fabrics. The material of your base layer and mid layer is one of the most important factors to consider. This is not your grandparents' itchy woolies. ) Wool can also be blended with other fabrics, like spandex to enhance fit and flexibility. The weight difference is noticeable: 2. Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Crew Top; Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms; Synthetic Option Merino wool isn’t just for cold weather– it helps regulate your body temperature even in warm months. Merino Wool Option. Merino wool has almost completely replaced traditional wool thanks to its soft, ultrafine fibers. (Learn more about merino wool. We recommend a cold-water wash and laying flat to dry. In the winter, using merino wool as a base layer lock in heat. The density is normally somewhere between 135g/m 2 and 400g/m 2. We recommend that you steer clear of a cotton base layer because it absorbs moisture like a sponge. However, if we want to make a really thick merino fabric, it needs to be very dense. Oct 16, 2018 · Ultrafine, superfine and extra fine graded Merino wool is suitable for base layer clothing as wool fibers with a bigger diameter tend to be too rough to be worn directly against the skin. The topic gets rather convoluted with wool vs. In all seasons, it is soft and comfortable beside the skin. Our favorite Alpaca base layers: Paka and AlpacaTek. Nov 4, 2019 · Polyester is going to be significantly lighter than merino wool. Polyester vs. My experience has been that the cut affects smells a lot. Merino wool is obtained naturally from Merino sheep: the breed offering the finest wool for luxury and sports apparel. The Mount Merino Base Layer Top and Trousers combine wool and polyester, offering wool's natural benefits along with enhanced durability. The fibers are extremely thin, less than 24 microns in diameter. I have seen a few different options out there that are wool blend, usually 60% polyester and 40% merino wool. Jan 4, 2023 · When you run cold, only wool is warm enough! I wear -33 (brand) merino wool base layers, top and bottom. It's harder to find legitimate merino wool base layers, many of the cheaper like Target's are <26% blends. A merino-synthetic blend: Is generally more durable than full merino wool layers. Our merino wool base layers are the Kaibab series. On the other hand, we have polyester, a synthetic fabric known for its durability and versatility. When it comes to choosing your base layer you’ll likely notice that the range on the market will consist of three construction types: wool (usually merino), synthetic (man-made) fibres, or a mixture of the two. If you're on the fence about which material to choose, this guide will set you in the right direction toward base layers for skiing and snowboarding. Best comparison I can come up with would be the kiln vs the klamath from FL. However, pants are typically made of nylon as nylon provides better abrasion resistance than polyester. blend, as someone said, experiences vary. Wool is hydrophilic, while polyester is hydrophobic. Merino wool is known for its excellent insulation properties and odor May 16, 2022 · In general, a synthetic fleece with short lengthwise fibers wicks the best, slightly edging out merino wool. Wool, wool and more wool! Better for the environment - no plastic fibres getting washed out, no plastic in the production line, and made from a renewable resource Keeps you dry, even when wet/moist - Hiking in rain or having snow melt into your boots will not cause your wool undergarments to cool down on your body, as even wet wool helps Mar 7, 2024 · How to Wash Merino Wool - A Comprehensive Guide 1. Jan 28, 2025 · Merino Wool Merino wool has deservingly taken its place as the best fabric to use for a base layer. My next AT hike is going to be in cotton. Jun 30, 2019 · Polyester and Merino wool are typically used for base layers, mid-layers, hats, gloves and socks. They are much cheaper of course, but not sure at what cost. That means dirt, smells and water is trapped between the fiber. com, you might be interested in those as well) But regarding 100% vs. Apr 19, 2019 · I am a big fan of merino in next to skin applications and will always wear merino base layers and boxers. My pockets are not so deep that I want to replace my base layers every year. Oct 28, 2021 · We have our merino wool base layers and we have a polyester blend base layers. The Forloh Deep Space half-zip works just as well on its own as it does underneath other layers. Base layers made of Merino wool differ by density of the wool. Have you had better luck with a second merino piece or a grid backed fleece option. Synthetic. All the products I'm most happy with are in that range. Polyester is two of the most sought-after choices regarding clothing materials. Sep 21, 2023 · Most base layers are made of either synthetic material or merino wool. Merino sheep have extremely fine wool, which makes for a delightfully soft feel next to skin with minimal to no itch. . It doesn't have the problem of never being able to dry like Merino, and doesn't hold a smell like synthetics. For deep snow I prefer insulated snowshoe pants; otherwise, I wear Johnson (Vt. Jun 9, 2022 · The Capilene Air Crew top is made from a blend of merino wool and recycled polyester to provide a base layer that has excellent moisture-wicking, odour control and durability. That’s not to say that merino wool can’t be a great base layer, but for moto related activities in hot or cold, polypropylene is the most efficient and easiest to maintain. The first is merino is just not durable. Merino is amazing but it has some drawbacks that led me back to buying Capilene exclusively for the mountains. In cold/wet synthetic base layers and wool fleece for warmth, it's a little heavier, a lot bulkier, but it's dependable warmth even if wet and doesn't hold a smell too strongly. The two most common options are merino wool and synthetics—some performance-focused brands also use blends of the two—and silk is a final, less popular pick. It even dried out quicker than some 100% merino wool layers. Apr 1, 2022 · It is difficult to determine which material is superior because both offer advantages and downsides. From early November to mid-April I wear a wool sweater as a mid layer. So, if you have been pondering what fabric to wear close to your skin and in what conditions, read on! Wool vs Polypropylene vs Polyester Price . However my question is regarding mid layer pieces. 8 ounces. May 17, 2023 · Merino wool vs. The typical claim is that wool slows evaporation of water, slowing evaporative cooling; but the other factor is that water trapped in a clothing system is quite a heat sink, as well as a good Merino’s biggest advantage is that it won’t stink after you sweat it in it, but polyester base layers actually do a better job wicking sweat. The Downsides of Merino Wool. Apr 9, 2011 · While wool (merino is just a breed of sheep that produces very fine wool fibres) is great for base layers in very lightweight fabrics (150 – 200gsm), you will find heavier weight wool fabrics can become quite heavy and take a long time to dry if saturated. the synthetic counterpart of polyester. Feb 18, 2021 · REI Co-op Merino Wool Base Layer Crew Top; REI Co-op Merino Wool Base Layer Tights; Synthetic Option. During our dry speed tests, this top performed among the best. synthetic; part of the problem though is that most of the merino claims come from people selling merino. Mar 30, 2025 · These days, base layers are typically constructed from natural fibers such as Merino wool, bamboo, Tencel, and hemp, or a variety of synthetics such as nylon, spandex, polyester, etc. Our polyester blend is the Apr 23, 2022 · Breathability: winner (merino for a base layer, polyester for a mid-layer) If we compare similarly thick merino and polyester fabric, merino is the undisputed winner. I think that a 50/50 blend makes the ideal base layer top for most conditions. To help your merino wool layers last, wash and dry with care. These are the most common materials, though you may come across silk on the rare occasion. I think your best bet is actually something like an 80%/20% merino/nylon blend. Therefore they can Sep 2, 2014 · Synthetic Base Layers | Merino Wool | Bamboo | Cotton ‘Base layer’ is the name given to an item of clothing worn next to the skin during sport or activity. Apr 15, 2019 · They don’t wick quite as well as a 100% polyester fabric and they don’t have quite the same feel and odour-cheating abilities as pure merino fabric, but combo materials like Rab’s merino / polyester blend – previously known as MeCo – and Montane’s Primino mix of Primaloft fibres and merino wool, are an excellent balance between the Oct 25, 2022 · Wool vs. Merino is the most expensive and is generally bloody expensive. Common materials used for base layers include merino wool, synthetic fibers like polyester, and blends of both. May 17, 2022 · Despite merino base layers making leaps and bounds in recent years, synthetic fabrics have the edge when it comes to breathability and moisture management. For high intensity or shorter activities (autumn or winter runs, cross country skiing) we would recommend our Summit Long Sleeve tee, which provides more breathability. Thanks for the feedback guys. Weight and Packability: Polyester tends to be lighter in weight and more packable than nylon, making it a popular choice for lightweight and travel-friendly base layers. The increased density reduces breathability. Mid-weight merino (180 or heavier) base layers are great for some mid-winter activities (e. I use Smartwool baselayers since they blend their Merino with synthetic fibers so you get the best of both worlds. ) In wet conditions or in remote areas without access to warm shelter, I need my layers to dry out fast so they can be back to full capacity quickly. Merino wool and synthetic blend. Merino Wool: Renowned for its excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties, Merino wool is a top-notch material for base layers. Mar 2, 2024 · Merino wool base layers are renowned for their exceptional comfort compared to polyester alternatives. With heavier merino (sweater weight) I hand wash by soaking in cold sink water for an hour, rub it around with my hands for a few minutes, then drain a rise with cold water. But perhaps the most impressive feature of this product is how light it is compared to the warmth it produces. Anything else and some of us are guaranteed wet and clammy, even on the sub-zero days. Their fine, light wool means that they thrive in hot, dry climates– as such, most Merino wool today comes from Australia. Whichever you choose, they each offer their own benefits and drawbacks. Material. A blend of merino wool and synthetic fabrics is the closest you can get to a one-size-fits all base layer. Whether the provide the best and/or the worst of both is debatable. Even though we’re comparing a heavyweight polyester base layer against a mid-weight wool, practically speaking, I find these weights to be close to each other in terms of warmth. Synthetics. Merino Wool vs. Merino wool comes from a special type of sheep called a Merino sheep. Aug 1, 2024 · Merino Wool. I got a 95% merino 5% spandex set of Alaskan Hardgear from Duluth that I love, but they don't make it anymore. Merino base, wool sweater, and GoreTex shell is a solid old school new school layer blend that works for everyone from the heavy sweat crowd to the rare always dry folks. Overall, while both polyester and nylon can be suitable for base layers, polyester is often preferred for its superior moisture-wicking properties, faster drying time, and Apr 30, 2021 · A not-so-good base layer will usually do the opposite, making you a smelly, wet, miserable rider if faced with certain conditions. When Paul recently asked Richard for some base layer advice, the response was so useful we agreed it should go on the Moa Hunter website. As wool gets thin you start to run into durability issues. Synthetic thin layers are far more durable. ) woolen pants over my base. Then if we get cold we can layer a heavier 250 gsm zip-up (like the to Smartwool Merino 250 Quarter-Zip Top) over the t-shirt and vent using the zip as needed. The Pros of Merino Wool as a Base Layer. What is Merino Wool? Merino wool is a natural fiber grown by Merino sheep. Apr 16, 2025 · Meet your new favorite base layer: the Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Quarter Zip combines the strength, durability, and wicking performance of polyester with the exceptional comfort and odor-resistant abilities of Black Diamond's innovative Nuyarn Merino stretch wool technology. Apr 23, 2022 · For winter hikes, we recommend a merino long sleeve base layer. This keeps the weight off even though it doesn't help with polyester’s breathing issue. Thinner fabric is going to be less durable. Some of the best reasons to choose merino wool as your hunting clothing base layer include: For a long time I used Terramar silk longjohns mostly to keep my sleeping bag clean, but now use SUL merino from BPL, both for this reason and as a base layer. Choose a Material: Wool vs. merino wool’s natural breathability and temperature control properties keep you more comfortable in a wide range of conditions, even when you slow down. A variety of materials are used for such garments, each with different pros and cons. In this article, we will compare wool and polyester as base layer fabrics, considering factors such as temperature regulation, moisture management, UV protection, ease of care, environmental considerations, and more. I don't have any experience with those brands, but I can't help but chime in regarding 100% merino vs blends. Alpaca base layers are best for: high-activity adventures, people with wool allergies, and cold-weather activities. Synthetic Base Layers. Merino wool, however, contains natural antimicrobial properties which will keep your sweaty base layers from stinking. I prefer Smartwool or Merino Wool also. Alpaca vs. A light weight merino base layer will only last me about 1 season. When it comes to buying a merino wool base layer, this fabric has far more pros than cons. Voormi makes some interesting base layers where the inside is wicking polyester and the outside is wool. I'm working on getting some new thermal base layers. g. The small amount of nylon takes care of the shrinkage and durability issues with wool, and you still get all the benefits of wool (anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, adaptive to various temperatures, more fire safe). There’s no definite answer as to which one is better than the other, but the benefits of each type are: Synthetic: Generally faster drying; Wicks sweat better; Merino Sep 14, 2024 · Merino Wool Base Layers. mupyoa svkttnn pbl mjnv rqmfdn cdw hilk cprsq etdhznj ekqmh igl yfev pirdvbw otcf kva