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Surviving New Zealand's harsh climate, they have ingenious fleece engineering that protects them in the freezing winters (-10°C) and cools them in the scorching summers (+30°C). icebreaker's 25 years of experience showcase nature's incredible merino wool, providing performance and comfort, unlike anything you've experienced.
5 Benefits of Merino Wool
Merino wool is the ultimate choice for unbeatable performance, no matter the season. It helps provide temperature regulation and moisture management, and is naturally odor-resistant.
01
Temperature regulation.
The thermo-regulation properties of merino wool adapt to your body and external conditions, so you can stay warm in the cold and cool in the heat.
02
Natural odor resistance.
Merino wool neutralizes unpleasant odors by absorbing odour molecules into its fibers, making them less detectable by the human nose.
03
Moisture management.
Merino fibers efficiently manage moisture, absorbing it from your skin and releasing it into the atmosphere. It can absorb up to 35% of its weight in water without feeling wet.
04
Resilience.
We design our clothes to endure and withstand whatever adventure you have next. icebreaker merino fibers are resilient, stretching over 30% without breaking.
05
Unbelievable softness.
When icebreaker merino fibers touch your skin, they bend, offering an incredible sensation of softness and comfort that you have to experience to believe.
The Merino Wool Difference.
Traditional wool provides warmth but is bulky and itchy, while synthetic fabrics are low-maintenance but can induce sweat. Merino wool is the optimal solution – lightweight, soft, itch-free, resistant to odours, and environmentally friendly. Unmatched comfort and sustainability.
| icebreaker merino | Traditional wool | Synthetics | |
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| Natural fiber |
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| Warm when wet |
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| Doesn't smell after use |
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| Stays warm |
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| Soft, no itch |
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| Lightweight |
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| Machine washable |
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Merino pioneers from day one.
Since 1995, icebreaker has recognized merino's potential to surpass synthetics and plastics for a better future. Our relationship with nature and our growers enables us to nurture the highest quality merino wool.
Merino pioneers from day one.
Since 1995, icebreaker has recognized merino's potential to surpass synthetics and plastics for a better future. Our relationship with nature and our growers enables us to nurture the highest quality merino wool.
All your merino questions answered.
Why is merino wool good to wear?
Merino wool is unlike anything you've tried before. It's perfect for keeping you cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather. Thanks to its thermo-regulating properties, it adjusts to your body's temperature needs. Naturally odor-resistant, it also pulls moisture from your skin and releases it into the air. Made up of ultra-fine fibers that gently bend upon contact, you'll love how soft merino feels against your skin.
Will merino wool shrink after washing?
Merino wool won't shrink after washing due to its internal spring-like coil that holds its shape. Our machine-washable garments containing merino wool maintain their softness and performance. Hang to dry and store folded for best results. With its natural stretchiness, merino wool retains its shape wear after wear. As always, follow the care guide for your garment.
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Is merino wool itchy to wear?
Merino wool is generally not itchy because of its smaller and finer fibers that bend when they touch your skin, unlike traditional wool fibers that stay rigid and irritate the skin. icebreaker sources superfine merino fibers, carefully hand-picked by growers, ensuring softness and comfort. These luxurious fibers make merino wool suitable for next-to-skin layers, as they help provide less itchiness, resist odors, and move sweat away from your skin. To maintain the softness of your merino wool garments, follow the care guide for your garment. Experience the softness and comfort of merino for yourself.
Can I wear merino wool in summer?
Yes, absolutely! It may seem strange to imagine wearing wool in the heat, but merino is not like other wools. Its lightweight fibers are designed to manage moisture — naturally.
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How to wash, dry, and store your merino garment?
icebreaker garments are designed to make caring for them easy. Be sure to follow the care instructions on your garment's label.
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How do I layer icebreaker merino?
Click below to learn more about our icebreaker layering system.
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What is Merino wool?
Merino wool is a natural fiber from Merino sheep, known for its ultra-soft feel, breathability, and temperature-regulating properties. Unlike traditional wool, it's lightweight, comfortable, and ideal for all seasons.
How do I wash Merino wool?
Use a cold and gentle machine wash cycle (30 degrees and approx. 500 revs per minute) with regular powder or liquid detergent. Avoid hot water as heat may shrink merino wool, and don't use softeners or bleach. Separate light and darks and wash like colors together. Visit our
merino care guide for more information.
Does Merino wool stretch?
Yes! Merino wool has natural elasticity, allowing it to stretch and move with you. It also retains its shape after repeated wear, making it a durable and flexible choice.
Does Merino wool pill?
Pilling can occur with any natural fiber over time, but Merino wool is highly resilient. Washing inside out and avoiding excessive friction from backpacks or rough surfaces helps minimize pilling.
Is Merino wool warm?
Yes! Merino wool provides excellent insulation, trapping heat in winter while remaining lightweight. Plus, it stays warm even when wet.
Does Merino wool keep you cool?
Yes! Merino wool is naturally thermo-regulating, meaning it helps cool you down in summer and keep you warm in winter.
Where does Merino wool come from?
icebreaker sources its premium Merino wool from New Zealand, where Merino sheep thrive in extreme conditions. Their fleece naturally adapts to temperature changes, just like our clothing does for you.
Is Merino wool waterproof?
Merino wool is not fully waterproof but is naturally water-resistant. It can withstand light moisture and continues to insulate even when damp.
Can you iron Merino wool?
Yes, but it's usually unnecessary. If needed, use a low heat setting and a pressing cloth to avoid damaging the fibers.
