Best Merino Wool Base Layers – 2024 Edition
Merino wool is also a fantastic insulator! With so many merino wool base layers to choose from, we have reviewed and selected the best Merino wool base layers on the market now and have listed them below for you to see.
- Icebreaker Oasis 200
- Meriwool Midweight Bottom
- Merino.tech Thermal Shirt
- Kari Traa – Half Zip Thermal Shirt
- Arc'Teryx Satoro
- Smartwool NTS Mid 250 Bottom
- People Socks - Crew Wool Socks
- MERIWOOL Women’s Shirt
- ColdPruf Platinum Dual Layer Bottom
- Minus33 Franconia Bottom
- Alvada Wool Hiking Socks
- Helly-Hansen Men’s LIFA Shirt
- MERIWOOL Half Zip Sweater for Women
- LAPASA Long John Set
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
We discussed the materials in all of the products on our list, since some of them are made out of 100% Merino wool, and others feature Merino wool and a blend of other materials.
The blend of materials can make for a warmer embrace or can make the item more comfortable. Materials become important to the overall quality and design of the product, so it is important to take a look at that.
Merino wool is one of the warmest and most comfortable materials that you can wear, and if you live in colder climates than this material is a must have in your clothing arsenal. It is made from sheep's wool and is not the typical itchy wool that first comes to mind when you think of wearing wool. This wool is comfy and feels great against your skin, if you have never worn Merino wool, give it a try and you won't be disappointed.
Features
We analyzed features for each product on our list by looking into what makes the item stand out from the rest.
We investigated features such as breathability, as well as overall protection and durability. Another feature that Merino mool is well known for is its wicking power and ventilation. Depending on the environment that you will be in, this can make or break an article of clothing. Make sure you take a look at your product’s features so you wind up getting the product that is right for you.
Some great features that come with all Merino wool clothing are that it is soft, feels cool on your skin as it reacts to your body temperature, it is odor resistant to ensure no matter what you are doing the wool will not retain any odor, and it is quite breathable. This is good as when you are participating in winter activities, your skin is able to breathe and you will not feel uncomfortable while you are wearing your Merino wool base layer.
All of these features make Merino wool the best for any base layer clothing, so when you are shopping for your next pair of base layers make sure they feature at least a percentage of Merino wool.
Durability
Durability is always important when you purchase something, and most clothes made with Merino wool in them offer a lot of durabilities.
It is inevitable that these clothes will be washed, and it is important to have confidence before you purchase something that will hold up in the washing machine. Sometimes with wool products, it is hard to avoid pilling, but some articles pill more than others. We discussed what we felt made each product on our list durable.
Wool is known for being a tough material and Merino wool is no exception. Merino wool is strong and resilient and that is why it the number one choice for winter athletes. It is the perfect material for the job of keeping you warm and also holding up over time so when you buy a pair of Merino wool base layers that they will last multiple seasons.
Value
When we analyzed the value, we considered the price of each product along with how long it would last.
We also took a look at the benefits and features the product offered and factored that in. Merino wool is known to last for a long time, so even if the price is slightly higher, we believe that the products on our list are well worth the investment.
When it comes to any clothing you always want to justify the price to the quality of the clothing and how long it is going to last you. When it comes to Merino wool which is a durable material, the cost is going to be a bit higher but will be worth it as it will most likely be the last pair of base layers you will need for some time.
It is best to check out the customer reviews if you see a pair of base layers you like to see how they held up for other consumers and if they were worth what they are valued at.
Top 14 Merino Wool Base Layers
1. Icebreaker Oasis 200
Icebreaker has been in the business of keeping you warm since 1995. They have a very close relationship with the farmers in New Zealand and are dedicated to the welfare and happiness of the sheep that are used to create the Merino wool clothes. This base layer shirt is versatile and stylish enough to be worn on its own or layered for added warmth. This shirt is available in many different colors and styles, including solid, striped, and two-toned.
Read moreMaterials
This long sleeved gem is made from 100% Merino wool. It boasts a 200-weight and it great for mild to chilly weather - it’s actually right in the middle of the charts for moderate to freezing weather. Like all Merino wool clothing, this shirt has amazing wicking power and will keep you dry even when you dip into that warm coffee shop on a cold day. This is a wonderfully versatile shirt that can be worn on its own, or layered to provide more warmth.
Features
Besides all of the benefits that come with any garment made with Merino wool, Icebreaker added in a few features of their own. The seams of the shoulders are offset to avoid chafing between your shirt and backpack and to add comfort.
This is a great shirt for travel as it is moisture wicking and doesn’t easily absorb odors. When the time does come to wash it, you’ll also be happy to know that it dries very quickly.
Durability
As with any wool item, you already know that this is a durable shirt. With proper care and washing, this shirt will be a staple piece in your wardrobe for years to come.
Value
Pricewise, it varies depending on which color you choose. At first glance, it is a quite expensive shirt. After learning more about the features, durability, and the integrity of the company, we think it’s a great investment. Icebreaker is committed to the well-being of animals and the environment.
2. Meriwool Midweight Bottom
MERIWOOL's Base layer Bottom offers you a durable product with high-quality Merino wool materials that will keep you warm and comfortable on all of your runs. You’ll get plenty of durabilities packed into your product, and it will give you a lot of long-lasting protection. Plus, this product falls in the affordable price range, which means it is a great option if you are shopping on a budget. These bottoms are soft, comfortable, and very warm.
Read moreMaterials
This option is designed from 100% all natural superfine 18.5-micron Merino wool for extra comfort and durability. The materials are very high-quality and help ensure that you’ll have this product for a long time. They are also designed to breathe and ventilate well, meaning that the fabric is quick-drying and moisture wicking, and you’ll never feel like you are overheating in them. With a soft feel and a lot of comfort, this is a nice product to have.
Features
You get a 30-day satisfaction guarantee with this option, which is a nice bonus, and a nice pair of bottoms that will keep you comfortable and warm. These pants are designed to be breathable, moisture wicking, and quick drying, so you never have to worry about sweat build-up on the go. You’ll get anti-odor and anti-bacterial protection as well. This pants can also be thrown in the washing machine and dryer for easy cleaning maintenance.
Durability
MERIWOOL's pants are manufactured for durability and warmth, giving you long-lasting comfort. This product has a lot of great features packed into it, including its high-quality 100% Merino wool materials. You’ll get a bottom layer that offers a lot of comforts and will boost your warmth with its insulation, and it also feels very comfortable. The material is also moisture wicking, and that helps to extend the life of the product. So, these are a nice, durable product option.
Value
This option is priced affordably for a high-quality merino wool product and works great if you are shopping on a budget. You’ll get a long-lasting, durable design that is made to wick moisture and keep both odor and bacteria down. Plus, this product is also made for comfort and warmth, and you’ll get a lot of reliability there for a long period of time. Since you’ll get plenty of use out of it, they make a nice value purchase.
3. Merino.tech Thermal Shirt
Merino. tech Merino wool shirts are the perfect base layer. They are affordable, great for layering, and easy to wash. Suitable to wear all year round, the shirt is itch-free, offers UPF 50+ protection, and comes with a lifetime warranty so there is plenty to like!
Read moreMaterials
The long-sleeved shirt is made from 100% superfine 17.5-micron Merino wool that is free from itchiness, making it suitable to wear all day long. The material will also not rub against your skin, bunch up, or cause you to overheat.
Features
This Merino wool shirt features moisture-wicking properties that work by absorbing moisture from your skin and pushing it to the surface of the shirt, keeping you dry. The material is odor resistant so will keep you smelling fresh for long periods. The base layer also works by helping to regulate your body's temperature, so you never feel either too hot or too cold.
The men’s base layer offers UPF 50+ protection and comes in 31 different colors and a variety of sizes. The thermal shirt comes in 3 different thicknesses including lightweight (165g), midweight (230-250g), and heavyweight (320+g).
Durability
For long-lasting durability, the preferred method of washing and drying this thermal shirt is by hand and air drying. The piece also comes with a lifetime warranty.
Value
If you have a set budget to spend on your thermals this merino wool base layer is being sold for an affordable price making it an amazing buy.
4. Kari Traa – Half Zip Thermal Shirt
Kari Traa is best known for being a champion freestyle skier, with three Olympic medals to her name. More recently, she is also known for being the creator of one of the fastest-growing sports brands in Europe. Kari has created an extensive brand of clothing for active girls that feature unmistakable designs and a strong color palette, all produced to a high quality.
Read moreMaterials
Featuring a functional DriRelease technology and made from 100% Merino wool, this shirt is exceptionally warm and quick drying.
Features
The thermal shirt has been designed using panels of merino wool that fit perfectly around your body. The close slim fit also helps by improving your athletic performance. Extended cuffs and thumbholes provide extra coverage and support. The shirt comes in 4 different colors as well as a range of sizes.
Durability
The Merino wool is exceptionally durable and can be machine washed using cold water. For best drying results hang to dry and do not use fabric softener.
Value
Sold for a high price, this thermal shirt from Kari Traa is one of the more expensive Merino wool items in our collection. Very stylish and warm, it is a fantastic option however it may be too expensive for some budgets.
5. Arc'Teryx Satoro
This 1/2 zip fitted layer from Arc'Teryx provides a slim fit, breathability, wicking power, and great mobility. The armpits of the shirt are gusseted, allowing you to have a full range of motion while indulging in any winter sport. The only real complaint that we see with this base layer is the fact that it runs small.
Read moreMaterials
The Satoro from Arc’Teryx is made from a blend of 81% Merino wool, 12% Nylon, and 7% Elastane. This blend provides you with the best qualities of each fabric. The Merino wool keeps you warm, the Nylon assists the Wool in moisture-wicking and keeping you dry and airy, and the Elastane provides a more appealing bodily fit. The slim fit can be seen as something great or terrible, depending on the person. If you plan to use the shirt alone, just know that the materials are not very forgiving and you will be able to see every ab and/or fat roll.
Features
This base layer was designed with activity in mind. The underarms are gusseted and the sleeves are articulated for high mobility. On the men’s version, there is one zippered chest pocket, which is a great place to store cash, cards, or keys. For both men and women, there is a ½ zip which allows for comfort and easy body temperature control. The weight of this jacket is 8.1-ounces.
Durability
There have been no durability complaints with this base layer. The Merino wool and Nylon are both very strong materials. This is a great layer to pack in any bag and bring anywhere that the weather might be cold. With proper care and washing, we don’t see this baselayer giving out on you anytime soon.
Value
As with many Arc’Teryx items, this price of this baselayer is quite high. However, the peace of mind that comes with an Arc’Teryx item, the durability, and warmth will help to ease your concerns.
6. Smartwool NTS Mid 250 Bottom
These feature an affordable price option that is a great choice if you are shopping on a budget. You’ll get a well-designed product that is soft and comfortable and provides a lot of great temperature regulation when the weather is cold outside. With a nice, breathable design and technology that is moisture-wicking, you get a lot of great features with these nice bottoms. Plus, with their durability, you’ll be able to use them reliably for a long time.
Read moreMaterials
The bottom gives you a slim fitting option in nice thermal bottoms that are built out of 100% Merino wool fabrics. You get flat-locked seams and a nice mid-rise waist that both looks and feels great. With the comfort and thermal temperature regulation in this product, you’ll love how warm you feel when you are on the go on the trails. Plus, you won’t have to worry about getting overheated, since you’ll get great ventilation.
Features
These bottoms are very durable, and they are designed to resist odor and bacterial build up. You’ll get a nice pair of bottoms you can wash in your washing machine and use in your dryer for easy maintenance. Also, these won’t chafe because they feature flatlock seams, and come with a nice, overall design that makes them built to last. You’ll be warm, dry and comfortable on the trails.
Durability
Smartwool's NTS Mid 250 Bottom brings you a durable choice in bottoms for thermal temperature regulation, and high-quality materials packed in the design. The Merino wool fabric in these bottoms is built to be long-lasting and will give you a lot of temperature regulation for a long time during those cold winter months. You’ll get a lot of comforts and a nice thermal temperature boost, as well as a product that is built to wick moisture and keep odor out. With so much durability, you’ll have this option for a long time.
Value
Smartwool Men's NTS Mid 250 Bottom comes at an affordable price considering the high-quality Merino wool you’ll find in this product. Since the Merino wool is moisture wicking and breathable, you’ll get plenty of ventilation to prevent overheating. Also, you’ll get a lot of built-in comfort from the soft material which will keep you warm on very cold days. With all of that features in these bottoms, you’ll be able to use them and get a nice value purchase.
7. People Socks - Crew Wool Socks
These crew Merino wool socks offer you the most protection for your feet when going on your next adventure. When hiking or camping, it is always a great idea to layer your socks so your only pair does not get damp or wet, which can lead to serious problems when in the woods. These socks are definitely a must when going on your next hiking or camping trip.
Read moreMaterials
Crew wool socks are manufactured out of Merino wool and made to be comfortable in all seasons. These socks are designed to be worn every day without breaking down and to provide extra support to the heel and toes. These socks are the perfect thickness as they maintain heat, to keep your feet warm which is highly important on adventures during the winter.
Features
This product is made to be machine washable. You’ll also get a satisfaction guarantee if you purchase these socks, and anything happens to them within a year, the company will send you replacements no questions asked. That is a great feature, especially for socks as they usually take a beating. These socks will keep you comfortable and warm without making you feel overheated.
Durability
It's hard to go wrong with Merino wool. Reviewers agree that this pair of socks is no exception to the rule. One reviewer claims to have used these socks for 28 days straight and they are still in good condition.
Value
Crew wool socks are priced higher than a normal pair of socks, but that is because you get four pairs and they come with the 1-year guarantee that they will not break down and will provide you with the comfort and durability you expect when purchasing a pair of hiking socks.
8. MERIWOOL Women’s Shirt
The MERIWOOL women’s base layer is soft, comfy, and breathable so will keep you warm and dry in the coldest of weather conditions. It is also exceptionally durable, long-lasting, and is super stretchy, making it a great piece to wear whilst exercising outdoors.
Read moreMaterials
The MERIWOOL base layer is made from 100% natural superfine17.5 Merino wool. This material is stretchy and breathable, making it great for wearing whilst taking part in outdoor sport. Merino wool is soft to touch and will not irritate your skin. The material makes a great form-fitting thermal base layer, beneath both mid and outer layers, as it keeps you warm and dry. Unlike other materials, merino wool works by adapting to your body’s temperature, so you are never too hot or cold.
Features
The base layer has been cleverly constructed, ensuring you stay dry, warm, and comfortable. It has a wide crew-neck collar that works by sealing in warmth and preventing cold from coming through. The raglan sleeves offer an increased level of mobility with no restrictions. The shirt is lightweight, stretchy, and recovers its shape incredibly well, making it exceptionally durable when taking part in intense outdoor exercise.
Durability
Made from 100% Merino wool this women’s base layer is hardwearing, long-lasting, and exceptionally durable. The Merino wool gives the piece a natural wicking ability that keeps you dry and warm. The layer is exceptionally durable and has an odor-resistant property that keeps you smelling fresh. For best results hand washing and lying flat, to dry is recommended. The product also comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Value
Sold for an affordable price, this long-sleeved top is a great buy. Available in a range of sizes you will be silly not to buy one of these.
9. ColdPruf Platinum Dual Layer Bottom
This pick gives you an affordable option in high-quality Merino wool base layers that you can purchase even if you are shopping on a budget. You’ll get a shirt with a nice design that can insulate and boost your warmth on those cold winter days. Also, the shirt is designed to ventilate well and features moisture-wicking properties so that you’ll never overheat. You get plenty of comforts, too, with this shirt, since it is soft to the touch and feels great to wear.
Read moreMaterials
The bottom is comprised out of 100% CVPT performance polyester on the inside, and the outside is made from 70% polyester and 30% Merino wool materials. The garment also features flat seams so it won’t rub or chafe you while you are active. It has Thermachoice System technology packed into it which can help keep you warm while you are active and the weather is cold. You’ll get plenty of comfort and warmth when you wear this shirt in the cold.
Features
These pants come with a nice ability to insulate well, boosting your warmth and keeping you comfortable while you are active. The Merino wool still breathes and ventilates well, and you also get moisture-wicking protection so that you stay dry and won’t need to worry about overheating. Also, you’ll get a strong, well-designed option that fits very well and feels great whenever you wear it.
Durability
These feature an interesting combination of materials that help make this product strong. You’ll get Merino wool for the extra insulation and ventilation, with polyester for extra comfort. The bottom wicks away moisture well and can keep out both odor and bacteria with ease, which helps extend the lifespan.
Value
This pick is priced affordably, so even if you are shopping on a budget, you should be able to afford it. You’ll get a great bottom layer that can effectively boost your warmth and insulate well, but that still provides plenty of ventilation and moisture-wicking properties so that you don’t overheat.
10. Minus33 Franconia Bottom
Minus33’s Franconia bottom is a top-quality Merino wool bottom that provides plenty of comfort and warmth for all of your outdoor activities during the winter. You’ll get plenty of thermal temperature regulation and a very soft material blend that will feel great against your skin. Also, these bottoms are very durable and are made to last, offering some built-in sun protection and other weather protection features. You can also easily keep them clean by throwing them in the washing machine.
Read moreMaterials
They feel great when you wear them, and they also do a great job of boosting warmth and providing nice temperature regulation. You’ll get a quality product from a wonderful manufacturer that is known for creating top-quality options. You’ll also get a very durable overall construction with these bottoms.
Features
These are made so that they are easy to keep clean. You can throw them in your washing machine and dryer for easy maintenance. Also, you get a lot of thermal temperature regulation built into the design for extra warmth. The soft material means they feel great when you wear them, and they’ll also protect you from the weather since they have a 50+ UPF rating. So, you’ll get durability, warmth, and weather protection all packed into this great product.
Durability
Since this bottom is made to protect you from the sun and also offers some ventilation and moisture-wicking capabilities, it is very durable. You’ll be able to use these bottoms for a long time and they will withstand the test of time with ease. With all of their comfortable features, they make a nice choice.
Value
This option is priced affordably for a high-quality bottom that is made out of Merino wool. With the weather protection you get from the sun and other issues, these bottoms are quite durable and long-lasting. So, you be able to use them for a while before you’ll need to worry about replacing them, and that makes them a good investment.
11. Alvada Wool Hiking Socks
Alvada 80% Merino wool socks are known for keeping your feet warm. Thick, warm, and fuzzy, these super-soft socks that have a fuzzy inner lining are designed perfectly for colder temperatures.
Read moreMaterials
These thermal socks are made from a mixture of premium fabrics including 80% Merino wool, 15% polyester, 4% nylon, and 1% spandex. The socks provide a good level of support making them great for hiking.
Features
The socks are ideal for wearing in colder temperatures as they keep out the moisture and cold. The socks have been constructed with mesh ventilation channels that improve their breathability and airflow. They include moisture control fibers that keep your feet dry. They have also been constructed with arch compression that provides added stability and support.
Durability
This pair of hiking socks are hardwearing and suitable to wear whilst walking along rugged terrains. The socks have additional cushioning in the footbed that provides extra protection. They also have a reinforced toe and heel for extreme durability. The hiking socks are suitable for machine wash at a cold temperature.
Value
Available as a pack of 3, these thermal hiking socks are being sold for a fantastic price. If you want a comfortable, warm, breathable, and durable pack of socks suitable to wear for hiking these are a great buy.
12. Helly-Hansen Men’s LIFA Shirt
In 1970 the Helly-Hansen’s LIFA range launched their first technical base layers that revolutionized the industry. Since then, they have been known for making some of the best base layers worldwide.
Read moreMaterials
The 2-in-1 base layer has a 100% merino wool exterior and a 100% LIFA Stay Warm Technology interior. The shirt is made from 225g LIFA merino fabric and is non-itch, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Features
The shirt features a synthetic LIFA Stay Warm Technology interior that works by pushing moisture away from your skin and moving it to the fabrics surface, keeping you dry. The 100% merino wool exterior also generates a lot of warmth, making this layer exceptionally warm to wear in the coldest of temperatures.
Durability
The base layer is exceptionally durable and is suitable to wear for medium to high levels of outdoor activity. Some of the activities include sailing, climbing, trekking, ski touring, and mountaineering. The lightweight shirt is perfect for activities like this because it provides them with enough insulation and warmth when outside in harsher weather conditions.
Value
Available in 8 different colors, this is one of the most expensive options in our collection. Offering a stylish design, this is a great choice if you have a bigger budget, however, it may be a little pricey for some.
13. MERIWOOL Half Zip Sweater for Women
If you want a stylish and warm base layer, then look no further than the MERIWOOL women’s half zip zweater.
Read moreMaterials
This base layer is made from a 100% all-natural superfine 18.5-micron merino wool material. Ultra-soft, this material is itch-free and weighs 250g, making it midweight.
Features
This base layer has a natural built-in wicking property that works by pulling the moisture away from your body and bringing it to the surface of the sweater. The wool is highly breathable and odor resistant. The sweater's neck collar allows you to seal in extra warmth and the half zip makes it easier to cool down. Raglan sleeves ensure free-flowing movement when exercising.
Durability
Exceptionally durable, this high performing sweater comes with a 30-day proof of purchase hassle-free refund, replacement, and exchange. It also has a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty. For best results, the sweater should be machine washed in cold water and lay flat to dry.
Value
Available for a mid-price, this MERIWOOL women’s base layer, is a stylish piece that will keep you warm in cold weather conditions.
14. LAPASA Long John Set
The LAPASA Merino wool long john set is a brilliant base layer to keep you warm whilst outside in cold weather.
Read moreMaterials
The long john set consists of 100% of 200gm, 18.5 microns Merino wool. The material is incredibly soft against your skin and provides an amazing layer of insulation that will keep you warm when in cold temperatures.
Features
The long john set from LAPASA is lightweight, fitted, and breathable. Made from 100% Merino wool, this set will keep you incredibly warm whilst in cold temperatures. The long john set will also react to your body temperature so when you are feeling cold, it will help you stay warm and will keep you cool if you become too hot.
Durability
The base layer from LAPASA has been constructed using a Rib-Knit technology that gives the fabric a 4-way stretch. The neckline features a binding that helps improve the item's stretch as well as durability, reducing the risk of damage to the garment.
Value
If you have a larger budget to spend, this option is a fantastic buy. Warm, durable, breathable, and lightweight, it has plenty of features to offer if you have the extra money to spend.
Sources
- How to Choose a Base Layer, Website ,
- What are Base Layers? A Guide to Thermal Wear, Website ,