This new plant-dyed version of Smartwools Merino 150 tee is a wicking T-shirt that not only kept us cool on warmer-weather hikes, but also offered good coverage and some style. The 195 GSM fabric is a bit heavier than most of the other tees. Youll want your tee to stay odor-free. They create quality apparel in the USA without having to import their raw Merino from overseas. Still, if you are worried about punctures or tears, search for Merino wool tees blended or spun with synthetic materials with an excellent durability rating. It gives the shirt a luxurious feel but without the exorbitant price tag of similar products. Look for blended fabrics to improve strength. And I always air dry or hang to dry. And no one does merino better than Ibex so its great to see the brand in full swing! The breathable and odor-resistant fabric is excellent for any occasion, all at a price point that wont put a dent in your bank account. Of all the merino hoodie layers on our list, this one is the thickest, thanks to the thick-gauge yarn, as well as its sturdy, yet comfy, detailing like the roomy hood and ribbed cuffs and hem.
Well, there you have it; 21+ of the best Merino wool t-shirts on the market (well, 23 to be exact). Although some users have reported both sizing issues, always check the sizing charts before purchasing. 
Yet the factor we love the most is the supersoft 16.5-micron fibers that have a fantastic next-to-skin feel. As with the Tech Lite, the Journey Tee is blended with synthetics with (m)Force technology, improving the overall durability of the fabric. And we happen to agree. 100% Merino wool | ~150 gsm | Relaxed fit | Season colors | Price: $, Pros: Versatile for everyday, travel, & outdoors | Soft fabric | Good price, Cons: Fit a bit boxy | Good colors not always available. The narrow sourcing and supply chain of merino wool also contributes to its market value. The Oiselle Flyout is made with a majority merino wool and polyester blend. 100% Merino wool | 190 gsm | 16.5 microns | Regular fit | 5 colors | Price: $$, Pros: Fit offers room for movement | Excellent price point | Luxuriously soft, Cons: Fabric a bit thick for summer conditions | User-reported durability issues. The 100% Merino wool construction and fit offers great functionality as it moves with your body as you navigate the backcountry. Which is why weve considered both 100% merino wool layers and merino wool blends (with a majority merino greater than 60%). Thus, making it into our top three of best Merino wool t-shirts. 
Our take is if youre willing to put your name on the front of a t-shirt, then you stand by the overall quality. 100% Merino wool | 165 gsm | 18.5 microns | Regular fit | 9 colors | Price: $$$, Pros: Soft & pure Merino fabric | Excellent neck & shoulder cut | Lightweight breathability, Cons: Some shoulder bunching | Length a bit long. Durability: Lower-priced Merino tees often dont last as long as the more luxurious ones. In fact, Merino wool has one of the highest tensile strengths of all fabrics. 87% Merino, 13% Nylon | 150 gsm | Modern/athletic fit | 17 colors | Price: $$$, Pros: Top-notch performance | Durable corespun Merino/Nylon blend | Cloud-like comfort, Cons: Cut not suited for all body types | User-reported seam irritation, View Icebreaker Company Profile & Sizing Charts. Also, wool is biodegradable, which helps to reduce our planets reliance on landfills. This way, youll be better able to experience natures beauty. Check out our favorites for summer and fall hiking, biking, and more. There is also some buzz that the Merino 150 Sport tee has recently been discontinued. you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Shop Mens at VoormiShop Womens at Voormi. While its clear that traveling has immense benefits, there is no questioning that it can be uncomfortable at times. 85% Merino, 12% Nylon, 3% Spandex | 180 gsm | Athletic fit | 3 colors | Price: $$$, Pros: Synthetic-enhanced durability | Flatlock seams | Also great for fitness, Cons: May feel tight around waist | Limited color options, View Woolx Sizing Charts & Company Profile. 
As wool is not as durable as synthetics, look for blended fabrics to improve durability. The one issue (if you can even call it that) that weve seen is that the shirt length is a bit long, which may be cumbersome if youre on the shorter side. The fit itself is a bit slim and fit, so if you are looking for a more draped cut, then this tee may not be best for you.
Kitsbows merino shirts are made with a 75% merino wool and 25% synthetic blend. Still, the sleeves are a bit longer than wed hope for in a t-shirt. Still, there have been user-reported comfort issues, and it appears that the sizing is a bit off. Merino wool (wool from a sheep) naturally retains heat to keep you warm. The fit is pretty is standard, but the length may be too short if you are super tall. 
Disclaimer: To maintain genuineness and authenticity, Merino Wool Gear DOES NOT sponsor products. The Anatomica fabric is what makes this Icebreaker Merino T-Shirt a great pick. So, if you want a roomier fit or if you are in between sizes, be sure to size up. (That being said, our staff has a great time testing the latest in bio-based fabrics unique layers sewn with everything from bamboo to hemp to corn.). The heathered fabric and cut make the Vapor Tee unique, but some taller folks have stated that the length is a bit too short (we didnt even notice). For more in-depth reports, information, and news about Merino wool gear, make sure to follow us on Instagram or stick around and check out some of our other reviews. Still, as its softer and more delicate than other fabrics, you have to be a bit more careful when taking care of it to improve longevity. Many people think that Merino wool is a bit bland in regards to the fashionable aspect of clothing. With a rise in popularity outside the outdoor industry and into the streetwear industry Merino wool companies have been creating tee styles that fit multiple situations. We also really loved the fit and coverage of this tee, especially the sleeve length and womens cut. Odor Resistance: Spending an extended stay in the backcountry? Look for shirts with higher wool content for better comfort. The first time I felt that way about a t-shirt, it was with Merino wool (which is why I started this site in the first place). This slim-fit Merino tee will keep you cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and stylish all year round. We consistently post new reviews, information, company profiles, and news about your favorite clothing material: Merino. Why the higher price in the first place?
Pure Merino wool and pure comfort, the Minus33 Algonquin Crew is one of our favorite wool outdoor tees. For one, it can be more fragile and less durable, both in wearing and washing. Things like providing a next-to-skin base layer for skiing or a long sleeve (great for cooling and wicking in warmer weather, and insulating and wicking in cooler weather). We focused on shirts because they are versatile for a variety of weather and activities. Thats 30 to 50 g lighter than the leading ultralight merino fabrics currently on the market, Voormi claims. Give the Smartwool Everday Exploration Henley a try. If youre looking for a great tee to rock on the couch or out on the trail, then the Woolx Endurance Mens Merino Wool T-shirt may be the perfect garment for you. The Flyout has a soft feel, but its also pretty solid in its construction. When we slip it on, it just hugs all the right places. 87% Merino, 13% Nylon | 150 gsm | Regular fit | 6 colors | Price: $$, Pros: Great fit & style | Enhanced corespun durability | Breathable, lightweight fabric, Cons: Fit runs tight | Need to launder with care. The Ridge Merino Journey tee provides excellent breathability and odor-resistance at an unbelievable price point. But, that not exactly the case. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget. Look for shirts with higher Merino percentages and thinner fabric weights. Also, some people have said that there are durability concerns, but considering that Merino.Tech has a lifetime warranty on their products; we are pretty confident about their confidence in the durability department. There are committees, organizations, and companies that regulate the ethical treatment of sheep. If youre a frequent traveler, youve probably already heard of Unbound Merino. 50% Merino / 50% Recycled Polyester | ~150 gsm | Athletic fit | 2 colors | Price: $$, Pros: Great price-to-quality ratio | Durable & versatile | Quick-drying, Cons: Cut not for everyone | Limited color options. If you know you want a natural fabric that comes with all the soft, cooling, and wicking properties that merino does, keep price in mind $80 for a T-shirt?! We tested and reviewed the best men's flannel shirts of 2022.
It features austere mountains and the Helly-Hansen logo prominently on the front, as they take pride in the shirts they make. Thats right, Merino in America. When you buy a merino wool shirt or garment, you arent just buying, you are investing. Well break down each of the 22+ tees that we review into a few categories: editors (yours truly) top three, best outdoor Merino wool tees, best travel t-shirts, top Merino wool t-shirts for everyday use, and even the most affordable Merino wool t-shirts that we can vouch for. Yes, after just one or two wears, we had to wash ours.). Read through our favorite expert-compiled gear for thru-hiking, backpacking, ultralight backpacking and more. Merino wool is notoriously fine with fine, fragile, and soft fibers. Mary is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie and is based in GearJunkie's Denver, Colo. office. We just havent got to test them out yet! Fashionable, functional, and all-around chic, the Outlier Ultrafine Merino Cut One T-Shirt is genuinely a cut above the rest. That statement is vague and cliche, but its the truth. Even when I wear a lot of merino wool when in the outdoors, I try to wash sparingly. Its super lightweight, coming in between 130-150 GSM fabric weight, and will keep you fresh and dry (hence the vapor name), no matter the activity. That said, there are certain things that 100% merino wool is hands-down good at. The 170 GSM fabric is a bit thicker than some of the other tees on our list, providing a bit more durability. 100% Merino Wool | 150 GSM | 17.5 Microns | Relaxed Fit | 7 Available Colors | Price: $$, Pros: Ultralight pure Merino fabric | Soft on the skin | Great price-to-quality ratio, Cons: Potential durability issues | Must launder with extra care. You should be sporting clothing that offers the protection you need while reducing any irritation. Whats more, it breathes! Each of the 21+ Merino wool t-shirts on this list is unique by itself. That being said, after a few months of testing, were comfortable with the quality. Its got the natural properties of merino, but a thicker plated-knit Polartec Power Wool with the addition of synthetic polyester (Bluesign-approved!) 
If youre like me, then you probably wear Merino wool no matter the occasion. The extra weight gives it a more protective feel, but we dont suggest wearing it in super hot climates. We love the entire Ortovox RocknWool base layer collection, and this shirt is no different. If you are looking for the softest merino layer money can buy, youll want to look somewhere in the 15- to 17-micron fabric range. If you are looking for a less performance-oriented, more sweater weather style layer, this is a good one. While we have not experienced this issue, if you want to avoid it altogether, it may best to purchase their v-neck version instead. If she's not writing, you can most likely find her at the top of a fourteener, or in a local bakery. The athletic fit offers a wide range of versatility, and the incorporation of synthetic material improves the shirts overall durability. Its available from size 2 all the way up to plus sizes 20/22. We requested and tested dozens of merino wool shirts to find the best on the market. The cut is a bit relaxed but not too baggy. Suppose you dont want to shell out a bunch of money for a high-end wool t-shirt but still want to experience the benefits of Merino. In addition to Allbirds Wool Hoodie merino construction, comfort, cozy fit, and warmth, this layer has even more cool features. We didnt quite know how to test this claim, but did like the tees performance enough that it made it on our list! The corespun nylon blend increases overall durability and longevity, and the ultralight 150 GSM fabric is comfy and moves with you. Make sure to follow proper washing instructions to prevent longevity issues. Like many of the adult merino tees we listed above, this top functions great as a standalone layer for a variety of outdoor activities, or as a base layer/layering add-on for when the temps drop. Norwegian outdoor company Janus has created a unique line of Merino wool gear that they call Summerwool. Its truly versatile for any situation, which is why it rounds out our best merino tees for traveling. Comfort: Fabric comfort tends to decrease with price, so look into the Merino wool fiber thickness (in Microns) to gauge potential comfort levels. In terms of construction, we like the part-merino, part-synthetic blend it seems to be a good balance of soft, stretchy, breathable, and durable. After a short out-of-business stint (that then lasted 2 years), the Ibex brand is finally back. Trek, bike, and paddle with GearJunkie and USARA this season as we explore and compete in wilderness events around America. 
), weve got separate coverage on that too. The only other downside we see is that there are currently only two color options available. This is a simple and subtle shirt, with a slightly tapered fit. The only actual downside that weve seen is that the sleeves are a bit long for our liking, but again, this is a personal preference. Now, on to our feedback. Comfort: With a hectic daily schedule, youll want your Merino tee to keep you comfortable. Also, we love the athletic cut, as it hugs all the right parts of our body. In that case, the Merino Protect t-shirt may be the best option for you. Check each companys sourcing and view user reviews to make a decision. When youre done on the trail, its versatility allows for everyday comfort, so you can even wear it on your commute or just around the house. Ive learned more from city-hopping across Europe, experiencing local traditions in Africa, and exploring the vastness of Patagonia than I did during my formal education. When researching your favorite Merino tees, youll want to keep three factors in mind: comfort, versatility, and durability. 100% Merino wool | 155 gsm | 19 microns | Athletic fit | 4 Colors | Price: $$$$, Pros: Excellent outdoor functionality | Cut & drape moves with body | Multi-color design, Cons: Not ideal for super hot conditions | Launder with care. Thus, you can stay dry and comfortable for years to come. It sounds ridiculous at first, but the price does truly reflect the quality of merino wool fabric. The longer length also makes it a great choice for those who run taller.
Well, its not just because we created an entire website, as Merino wools high-performance properties make it one of the top t-shirt materials. One perceived issue with Merino wool is that strength and durability fall victim to comfort. Its not crazy expensive for a hoodie, and it solves something a merino tee or base layer just cant: the need for extra-cozy extra warmth. Lets take a look at a few of them (click on each one to learn more). Durability: Twigs, branches, and rocks are prone to tear your shirt. Long layovers. Other than that, the Sheep Run Merino tee is a great budget option for those looking to shift their wardrobe to more woolen fabrics. That being said, there are some cons. Allbirds achieves this by using only natural materials and then offsetting its manufacturing with credits. Research each brand and buy shirts blended with synthetic materials. Look for higher Merino percentages and lower micron thicknesses. And, that the three plant-based dye colors are a unique departure from the standard black or gray hues you usually see in merino layers. Price-to-Quality Ratio: Just because a shirt is priced low does not mean its made of cheap material. GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Wed even suggest that you size down for a tighter, more athletic fit. The 1/4 button closure is exceptionally versatile. Your tee shouldnt add to the inherent discomfort of traveling. And, its made in the USA. And Merino wool t-shirts make you feel good all the time. Plus, if you dont want to shell out a bunch of money just to use your t-shirt for one specific activity. Bear with us, as quality requires time. According to Black Diamond, this tee is the worlds lightest technical Merino t-shirt, coming in at only 95 GSM. 87% Merino, 13% Nylon | 145 gsm | 17.5 microns | Modern fit | 3 colors | Price: $, Pros: Unbeatable price-to-quality ratio | Super lightweight | Comfortable & versatile, Cons: Longer hem length | Reported manufacturing inconsistencies. Vermont-founded Ibex has been making merino apparel since 1997. The shirt fabric is approximately 180 GSM, making it heavy enough for protection but still lightweight and breathable. Its crazy ultralight and soft, meaning its prone to snag easily. When it comes to exercising or spending lots of time in the outdoor elements, double yes. The stillness and serenity of nature offer solace in an otherwise tumultuous world. Crafted from a proprietary blend of Merino wool, polyester, and bamboo, this quality t-shirt is perfect for any wool lover. The 100% Merino construction is ultrasoft (as the name would suggest). This means you wont get clammy or the chills, and it also helps with wicking body odor. Our last bonus point for Kitsbows Mulligan and Lauren merino shirts they are made right here in the USA. Still, if you want to reap the benefits of Merino wool during your outdoor adventures all while saving a little money then this Janus tee may be your best bet. Merino wool is a natural material, meaning it doesnt come from manmade plastics or synthetics. Some are perfect for hiking, while others cater more toward a streetwear aficionado. Some users have also reported seam irritation around the shoulders and the development of bacon neck after several uses. Durability: You never know how rigorous your day maybe, so you should trust that your tee is up for any adventure. On top of that, Merinos natural crimp provides tiny air pockets for moisture to pass through, which also trap hot air. Still, well get more into that in a bit. These bacteria can sometimes find a home on your shirt fabric, making you smell even worse. Moisture Control: A key component to staying warm in the outdoors is to control next-to-skin moisture. Odor Resistance: Dont get stuck doing laundry when you should be embracing a new culture. We noticed the two-toned threads, as well as the seams on the hem and collar (not flatlock) that gave the shirt both a little grip and maybe some element of design. Quality meets affordability with the Mens Meriwool Short Sleeve Tee. The thing we love most about the Meriwool tee is the supersoft 16.5-micron Merino fibers. Other fibers synthetics or plant-based fabrics are not as fine, porous, or breathable.
The Voormi River Run is 100% merino wool but made with a unique blend and construction. The Voormi River Run was designed with everything from fly fishing day trips to multiday river trips in mind, which is one of the main reasons we love it so. Here are our staffs top five favorite merino tees (and a few honorable mentions below). Look for thinner fabric weights for more breathability. Sustainable hemp shoe brand Allbirds started making apparel last fall. If youre in the market for a high-quality Merino t-shirt but dont want to break the bank, weve found the best option for you. The Tech Lite II is made with 100% odor-wicking, natural merino. Smartwool is an excellent Merino wool brand, and their Merino Sport tee is a great transition piece for those looking to transfer their outdoor wardrobe to more wool-based products.
What we didnt include is all merino wool layers under the sun. Theres something about a good t-shirt that makes you feel good. But, thanks again to its porous fiber nature, its still breathable at the same time. Made from 100% Australian Merino wool, this breathable Merino tee from Sheep Run is great for the gym or just running errands around town. It offers a bit of stretch and wicking but, most importantly, an extra-soft feel perfect for little kids. Lets take a look at the three most crucial buying considerations when searching for an affordable Merino wool t-shirt. The fit itself is standard and moves with your body as you are hiking up and down the trails. Whether you need a merino layer for hiking, hunting, or just spending time outside, consider all the uses merino shirts are great for. There is no denying that Merino wool can be on the pricier side of the apparel world, mainly when youre used to buying a three-pack of tees for only $10. Heavy wool blankets or wool-lined slippers might evoke ideas of an itchy, coarse fabric, but put those thoughts aside merino wool is different. Thus, you get all the benefits of wool, but with enhanced durability and longevity. Other than that, we wholeheartedly trust Fjllrvens craftsmanship and quality with the Abisko Wool tee.
All of these shirts also come at a user-friendly price! They arent only comfortable and versatile, but look pretty darn stylish too!