The perfect baselayer, Merino wool delivers nature-tested performance on and off the trail. An all-season, temperature-regulating fibre, its breathable, moisture-wicking, and odour-repellent properties make it a secret weapon in your outdoor arsenal. It’s pretty darn comfortable, too, which is why we’re big fans.
What is Merino wool?
For those not acquainted, Merino ain’t your granny’s wool. It's a renewable fibre, shorn from Merino sheep that typically live in high country environments. Here, temperatures can soar and plummet in a matter of hours and their wool keeps them cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s not. This fine wool is prized in luxury apparel and technical sportswear, known for its soft, non-itchy texture that feel great next to skin.
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What makes Merino wool great?
- Comfortable
Not all wool is itchy and heavy.
Merino is the world’s finest wool and feels soft and lightweight, which is why it’s often used for items like thermal baselayers, underwear, and socks.
- Temperature regulating
What really sets Merino apart is its breathability – it's able to release warmth as needed to prevent overheating and keeps you cool when temps warm up.
Merino’s natural knack for regulating body temperature means you can pack fewer clothes and keep comfortable in any weather.
- Moisture-wicking
Merino wool acts as an escape route for sweat and excess heat, keeping you dry, warm, and cosy while you work up a sweat.
Its natural moisture-wicking properties draw perspiration away from the skin, meaning you won’t get all cold and clammy.
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- Odour-resistant
Merino wool can naturally absorb odour caused by bacteria, trapping smells and reducing their build up.
This makes it the ideal solution for multi-day tramps and travelling where packing light is essential and washing machines are in short supply.
- Easy to care for
Merino resists bacteria, so you don’t need to wash it as often or as rigorously as synthetics. Airing your Merino overnight will usually freshen it for the following day—perfect for an overnight tramp.
Kathmandu’s Merino clothes are machine-washable, making them easy-peasy to care for.
- Perfect for most activities
The many natural benefits of Merino wool—moisture-wicking, insulating, temperature-regulating, odour-resistant, and breathable—provide exceptional comfort and protection in the outdoors.
But, they’re just as useful as baselayers for cold days at the office, hot summer hikes, and just lounging around.
Meet our latest range: K-Merino 125
Our K-Merino 125 is made with Nuyarn®, a twist-free spinning technology that enhances the natural performance qualities of Merino wool enabling it to dry faster, maintain thermal retention, and hold its shape.
Featuring next-to-skin baselayers like undies and baselayer tees, it provides longterm durability that resists holes and pilling, while maintaining its shape. Made to move, it’s perfect for travelling, wintery sports, hiking, and everyday wear.
Merino wool, nature-tested performance.