How about a wool shirt—even in warm weather? Sure, if it’s Merino Wool. It’s not only soft but it can wick moisture, regulate temperature, and resist odors. In fact, a reviewer for the New York Times Wirecutter noted that he wore one shirt for three+ days straight.
That’s why it is so good for travel, whether you want tee shirts, long sleeve base layers, socks, joggers and more. One caveat: It’s always a good bet to air dry rather than use the drier—and it does dry quickly.
We’ve long been fans of Smartwool Merino wool socks, whether for hiking, skiing , running or everyday. (You can wear them more than one day—a good bet if you are traveling.) And they also make them for kids.
We’ve also sampled their Merino tee shirts and long sleeve base layers. (Try out Smartwool’s Second Cut products, with new socks made from 2 million old socks and scraps from Thermal Merino base layers turning them into fleece.
I’m also a fan of Merino Wool socks from Farm to Feet that use US materials manufactured in the US by US workers. The American sourced merino wool is grown by American Sheep Industry ranchers. After shearing, it is processed into clean wool top by Chargeurs Wool in Jamestown SC. From there, the wool is spun into yarn by spinners like Kent Wool in Pickens, SC and National Spinning in Burlington, NC. After spinning, the yarn arrives at their manufacturing facility in Mt. Airy, NC and knit into socks. For your favorite traveler, consider their over the calf compression socks.
Another go-to brand for Merino is ibex. I love their Merlot Women’s Nomad Jogger that could be a base layer when it’s freezing or a comfy option when traveling or hanging around at home. They’re made with 95 per cent Merino wool and 5 per cent elastane to that helps to keep their shape. There are also short sleeve and long sleeve crews in a variety of colors, shorts, hoodies, tights, hats, blankets, glove liners and more—with products for men as well as women.
Merino products are not inexpensive, but they will last… and last, and last. Perhaps a holiday gift for your favorite adventurers?