Man wearing icebreaker merino cool-lite tshirt

Cool-Lite in Action: Staying Comfortable During Summer Activities

When the temperature rises, so does the challenge of staying comfortable outdoors. Whether you're hiking under the mid-July sun, trail running through humid forest paths, or packing light for hot-weather travel, your gear has to do more than just look the part, it has to perform.

That’s where icebreaker Cool-Lite™ comes in. This innovative natural fabric blend is built to keep you dry, fresh, and cool during all your summer pursuits. It's not just summer outdoor clothing. It’s breathable activewear that works with your body, not against it.

 

What Is Cool-Lite?

Cool-Lite™ combines the best of two natural fibers: Merino wool and TENCEL™ Lyocell, a wood-based fiber known for its silky feel and fast-cooling properties.

The result? A lightweight, breathable fabric that:

Removes moisture vapor to help keep you dry

Releases excess heat for better body temperature control

Feels cool and soft against your skin

Naturally resists odor without chemical treatments

Perfect for high-output activities in warm to hot conditions, Cool-Lite™ is a smarter alternative to synthetic summer gear.

 

Where Cool-Lite™ Performs Best

Cool-Lite™ was made for movement, especially when the heat is on. Here’s where it shines:

Hiking in Heat

From dry desert canyons to humid backcountry trails, Cool-Lite™ helps regulate your temperature as you move. Lightweight and breathable, it keeps you comfortable whether you’re climbing steep switchbacks or taking a break in full sun.

Running, Training, and High-Intensity Activity

When you're working hard, your gear should help you stay focused, not leave you soaked and overheating. Cool-Lite™ activewear manages moisture naturally so you can move freely, stay fresh, and recover faster.

Travel and Everyday Warm-Weather Wear

Cool-Lite™ isn’t just for the trail. It’s ideal for travel, urban commutes, and daily wear in hot weather. With its quick-drying comfort and casual styling, you can wear it all day with no change of clothes required.

Cool-Lite™ vs. Synthetic Activewear: What Sets It Apart

Plenty of summer activewear claims to keep you cool but most are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, which rely on chemical treatments to manage moisture and odor. That performance wears out over time. And so does the comfort.

Cool-Lite™ takes a different path. By blending Merino wool with TENCEL™ Lyocell, we harness the natural properties of two powerhouse fibers...no plastics, no gimmicks!

 

Feature

Cool-Lite™ (Merino + TENCEL ™ Lyocell)

Typical Synthetic Activewear

Breathability

Natural fiber structure enhances airflow

Often traps heat as fabric ages

Moisture Management

Absorbs vapor before it becomes sweat

Pushes moisture across fabric surface

Odor Resistance

Natural and long-lasting

Depends on temporary chemical finishes

Feel on Skin

Cool, soft, and smooth

Can feel slick or clingy when damp

Sustainability

Made from renewable plant and animal fibers

Petroleum-based, sheds microplastics

 

Cool-Lite™ isn’t just breathable. It’s designed to feel cooler, stay fresher, and perform longer all without relying on plastic.

Man wearing icebreaker descender full zip sweatershirt

Natural Innovation, Not Plastic Performance

Unlike synthetic “performance” gear, Cool-Lite™ relies on nature to deliver. No microplastic pollution. No chemical-heavy treatments. Just breathable activewear made from responsibly sourced Merino and plant-based fibers.

And because it’s designed to last, you can wear your gear longer and wash it less which reduces your impact with every summer adventure.

 

Ready to Stay Cool Naturally?

Don’t sweat through another summer in synthetic gear. With icebreaker Cool-Lite™, you get lightweight, breathable comfort that’s made for movement and built from nature.

Explore our full range of Cool-Lite™ summer outdoor clothing and discover how natural performance feels in action.