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Performance fabrics are typically petroleum-derived, like polyester and nylon. But Merino wool is an eco-friendly, natural alternative that’s not only insulating and temperature regulating but also odor-resistant, making it great for workouts, travel, and outdoor excursions. If there’s a catch, it’s that Merino wool can be pricey. But right now, one of the leading Merino wool brands, Icebreaker, is on sale at REI.
Icebreaker’s long-sleeve thermal top is an excellent layering piece that can be worn into the warmer seasons. Typically $105, it’s discounted to $52 in blue and purple, and it’s currently available in most sizes.
According to REI, Merino wool comes from Merino sheep and is prized for its softness. The softness, compared to other types of wool, is why it’s used in socks, shirts, and other garments that directly touch the skin. Icebreaker’s Merino top has a long-sleeve design that wears well under heavier coats, but it’s stylish and simple enough to be worn on its own in warmer weather. As a moisture-wicking fabric, it’ll keep you dry and comfortable. With naturally odor-resistant properties, you can work up a sweat without worry.
Like its competitor Smartwool, Icebreaker uses a numbered warmth rating system, with 125 on the lightest end and 400 on the warmest. This is the brand’s 200 top, so it’s lightweight but warm enough to wear as a base layer on ski trips or cold-weather hikes. It’s also UPF 20-coated for sun protection.
Shoppers were impressed with the comfort of the fabric, with one writing that it was "so soft you’d never know it’s wool." One shopper wrote that the shirts were "soft like cotton but so warm like the wool they are made of," and another appreciated that it "ticks all the boxes for style and warmth."
The shirt’s odor-resistant properties were also a selling point. Being able to wear a shirt over multiple days can be a plus among travelers and hikers who can’t afford to overpack. One happy shopper wrote, "I’ve not yet washed mine after four 12-hour days of consecutive wear." Another agreed, writing that they "can get multiple wears without washing."
"Brilliant, warm, and functional layer," someone else wrote. "I use it for football and yoga. Wish I had bought it years ago."
By now, you’ve probably heard about the seemingly endless benefits of Merino wool, but maybe you held out because of the price. Or maybe you’re a Merino wool enthusiast looking to replace the cotton and polyester tees in your closet. Whatever the case, now is a great time to stock up on these top-rated Merino wool tees from Icebreaker.
