Snowsafe Blog

Why choose Merino Wool Ski Base Layers? 🧥

Base Layers are essential for any skier. This is the layer closest to your skin, after all, Merino Wool stands to offer the most heat of all. That’s why Ortovox spends a lot of time  searching for the best base layer materials and Merino wool is the one which pops up time and again as the best. 

What exactly is Merino and Where does it originate from?

Merino is a breed of sheep, from  over 200 breeds of sheep and  is famous for its fine, soft wool and their ability to withstand extreme weather climates.

You can identify a Merino sheep by their wrinkly skin, fleece and large curly horns. 

Merino Sheep originated in Spain but now can be found in Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and South Africa. 

70% of the world’s Merino production now comes out of Australia with a whopping 125 million sheep.

Next to skin comfort?

Merino is the only sheep out of 200 breeds to offer unique features such as: 

• Fine & Soft –  The Merino sheep grow wool that is super soft and fine. The softness of the wool makes the comfortable element in base layers. As you may of noticed in the past with buying cheap base layers that they are very itchy and uncomfortable, this is because they are not made from Merino wool. 
• Fibre length – Merino wool is naturally long and makes for a stronger fibre. This is important, as a base layer that is made up of too many short fibres can be prone to hole easily.
• Natural crimp – Merino wool has a natural crimp to it. This increases the resilience of the yarn and fabric, meaning that it stretches easily.

How durable is Merino wool?

Given that you want base layers which can withstand through even heavy use, a Merino wool layer which doesn’t last isn’t ideal. Luckily, most manufacturers now blend Merino fibres with small amounts of synthetic fibres like nylon and polyester during production to lengthen lifespans so you get the most from your Merino.

Merino Wool Key features 

• Body Mapping – Ideal for increased warmth
• Lightweight – A base layer that won’t slow you down
• Breathability – To prevent moisture buildup during sessions
• Itch Proof – For comfort at all times
• Warmth & Temperature – Making sure you can ski in even adverse conditions
• Moisture breathing – To prevent moisture buildup in under layers
• Scratch-proof – Again for ongoing comfort
• Odour prevention – Allowing you to wear a base layer for multiple rides

What can I use Merino base layers for?

Merino wool is ideal for heavy-duty riding thanks to its ability to absorb 3x its weight in moisture. This, mixed with odour prevention capabilities, makes merino ideal for long ski tours lasting several days.

Even on day-long tours, the lightweight and comfortable nature of Merino makes for some fantastic base layer capabilities indeed. You name your ski need, and the chances are that you can probably use Merino wool base layers to achieve it.

Merino wool care instructions

As we mentioned previously, knowing how to care for your Merino wool is vital for both extending durability and gaining the best benefits. In reality, care here isn’t dissimilar to the wool care you’ve probably been tackling your whole life. General guidelines for care include – 

• Low temperature wash cycles
• No tumble drying
• Mild detergent
• No fabric softener
• Line dry

Keep these in mind for a Merino wool base layer which keeps you skiing for years to come. 

Snowsafe Blogs:

It’s important to stay safe and have the correct training when skiing or snowboarding off-piste please check out further blogs below:

• SAR Recco Rescue Helicopter
• What is a Recco reflector and why should you always wear one?
• Why choose a helmet with MIPS Brain Protection System
• Could there be an app on your phone that is an Avalanche Transceiver?
• Why its important you add a Recco Reflector to your Ski Helmet
• Why smartphones, watches, Gopros can interfere with avalanche transceivers

If you would like to feature a blog about your organisation or experience in the snow please feel free to contact us on info@snowsafe.co.uk or 01273 003925. We are happy to take guest blogs linking back to your website.