There are plenty of layers that promise warmth, comfort or performance. Very few deliver all three, day after day, in changing conditions. Merino wool does — which is why it has become the foundation of so many modern wardrobes, from extreme outdoor athletes to everyday commuters.

Worn close to the skin, what you choose matters. A good base layer doesn’t just add warmth — it regulates temperature, manages moisture and keeps you comfortable long after other fabrics fall short. Merino wool has been doing exactly that for generations.

What Makes Merino Wool Different?

Unlike traditional wool, merino fibres are exceptionally fine. This gives the fabric its soft, non-itch feel while still retaining the natural performance qualities wool is known for. It insulates when it’s cold, breathes when you’re active and continues to perform even when damp.

Merino’s ability to regulate body temperature is what sets it apart. It traps warm air in cold conditions and releases excess heat when your body warms up — making it as effective on a frosty hilltop as it is on a crowded train platform.

Naturally Antibacterial, Naturally Odour-Resistant

One of merino wool’s biggest advantages is something you only really appreciate after wearing it for a full day — or several.

Merino fibres are naturally antibacterial, which means they inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria. In simple terms, merino doesn’t hold onto smells the way synthetic fabrics do. You can wear it longer, wash it less, and still feel fresh at the end of the day.

For travellers, commuters and anyone who spends long hours in their kit, that makes a real difference.

Performance Without the Plastic Feel

Synthetic base layers rely on chemical treatments and coatings to mimic what merino does naturally. They can work well in short bursts, but often feel clammy, develop odours quickly and lose effectiveness over time.

Merino wool performs without those compromises. It absorbs moisture vapour before it turns into sweat, helping to keep your skin dry and comfortable. The result is a base layer that works quietly in the background, whether you’re pushing hard or barely moving at all.

ZQRX™ New Zealand Merino Wool

The quality of merino starts long before it becomes clothing. That’s why we use ZQRX™ certified New Zealand wool — a mark of traceability, animal welfare and environmental responsibility.

ZQRX™ standards ensure:

• Responsible land management

• High animal welfare practices

• Ethical, transparent supply chains

It’s merino you can trust — not just for performance, but for how it’s produced.

Built for Everyone, Not Just the Extremes

Merino wool is often associated with high-output outdoor pursuits — and for good reason. It’s trusted by endurance athletes, mountaineers and long-distance hikers who depend on reliable performance in demanding conditions.

But its real strength lies in its versatility.

The same merino base layer that works on a cold ridge walk works just as well under a jacket on your daily commute. It layers easily, looks understated, and delivers comfort without fuss. For everyday wear, travel, work and weekends outdoors, merino simply fits.

The Foundation of a Better Wardrobe

Merino wool isn’t about trends or technical gimmicks. It’s about choosing a material that performs naturally, lasts well and feels good to wear — day after day, season after season.

Get your base layer right, and everything else works better. It might not be the most visible part of your outfit, but it’s the one doing the most work.

Check out our Icebreaker Merino Wool collection here