The Ultimate Merino Base Layers for Year-Round Performance

Merino wool excels as a base layer due to its fine fibres and natural thermoregulation. Our selection of merino base layers for men and women will keep you warm in the chilly alpine environments and surprisingly cool during high-exertion activity in warmer weather. This natural, breathable fabric effectively manages moisture, wicking sweat away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable, making it the essential foundation for any outdoor layering system.

Naturally Odour Resistant Merino Clothing for Overnight Treks

One of the greatest benefits of merino clothing is its natural resistance to odour causing bacteria. This makes our merino base layers and mid-layers perfect for overnight treks, long haul travel, and ultralight packing, as garments require far less washing. Rely on our range of merino wool shirts, leggings, and underwear to stay fresh and comfortable on your longest adventures without carrying excess gear.

Shop Premium Merino Wool Garments From The Best Brands

Paddy Pallin curates the best merino wool clothing from the world's most respected outdoor brands. Icebreaker is famous for its merino wool underwear, complex layering systems and technical fabric weights (e.g., 150, 200, 260). Smartwool specialises in advanced, cushioned merino socks perfect for hiking. Meanwhile, Mons Royale offers performance merino apparel with a stylish edge. Choose from these trusted brands to find high quality, durable merino garments that meet certified ethical and environmental standards.

Shop More Outdoor Base Layers: 

Looking for more baselayers? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Explore our extensive range of Men’s Base Layers, Women’s Base Layers and Thermals for you to layer up with this Winter.

Learn more about layering your merino wool apparel by reading our Layering Guide.

Merino Wool FAQs

What is Merino Wool?

Merino sheep have a unique coat structure that keeps them warm through the winter and cool in the summer. Transfer this quality to clothing, and you have a fabric that performs well when conditions and exertion levels vary. Made with ultra-fine and flexible fibres, merino wool is three times thinner than regular wool, making it a lot more breathable, insulating, and comfortable to wear next to the skin than thicker wools.

Discover more in our Guide to Merino Wool.

Is merino wool too hot for summer?

No, merino wool is a lot finer than regular wool and has temperature-regulating properties that cool you down as well as heat you up. Most outdoor adventurers swear by merino wool during the Summer months.

Are merino wool jumpers itchy?

No, because of its finer fibres, merino wool is not itchy like regular wool - in fact it is actually very soft. Some people with particularly sensitive skin might experience slight irritation with any kind of wool, so it’s always worth trying before you buy to see if it’s for you.

Will my merino wool apparel shrink?

Merino wool will shrink if you put it through a dryer. You can stick it in the washing machine on a cold cycle and then  leave it to air dry. Luckily, because of its odour resistant properties, you shouldn’t need to wash your merino too often.

When should I wear merino wool clothing?

Because of its thermoregulation properties, merino performs best during high-exertion outdoor activities. It’ll keep you warm during your lunch break at the chilly summit, and keep you cool as you work hard to get there. You can wear merino during the winter as an insulating base layer, and during the summer as a standalone since it’s super effective at wicking sweat away from the body.

How do I wash merino wool garments?

When you do need to wash your merino, you’ll want to ensure you follow the instructions on the label.The best way to wash your merino garments is:

1. Turn the garment inside out.
2. Machine wash on a gentle cycle in warm or cool water, with regular powder or detergent. Don’t use bleach or softeners as this will affect the natural performance properties of the merino fibres.
3. Air dry by laying flat to maintain shape.
4. Store folded rather than hung.

Check out our Merino Wool Care Guide for more information on maintaining your merino garments. 

What makes merino wool socks better than cotton or synthetic hiking socks? 

Merino wool socks are superior because the fibre is naturally anti-bacterial, non-itchy, and incredibly effective at cushioning the foot while wicking moisture away. This combination prevents hot spots, reduces the risk of blisters, and ensures your feet stay comfortable and dry inside your boots.

Should I look for a specific weight for a merino wool long sleeve top?

The weight (often noted as 150g, 200g, or 260g) indicates the fabric thickness. A merino wool long sleeve top at 150g is ideal for warmer weather or high intensity activity, while a 260g weight functions more as a warm mid layer or a heavy duty merino wool thermal for cold alpine conditions.

How does merino wool make for comfortable merino wool underwear?

The exceptionally fine micron count of the merino fibre makes it feel soft and silky against the skin, eliminating the scratchiness associated with coarser wools. This next-to-skin comfort, combined with its odour resistance, makes it an ideal material for soft, comfortable underwear. 

What is ZQ merino certification and why is it important for clothing?

ZQ merino certification is a standard ensuring the wool meets criteria for animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and ethical sourcing. This certification gives you peace of mind that your merino garments are high quality, traceable, and sourced responsibly, upholding the highest standards of the merino industry.