Merino Wool vs Synthetic: A guide to choosing the correct base layer
A popular topic of discussion, especially when choosing what type of base layer you want to purchase, is whether to choose merino wool or synthetic material. The first question to ask yourself is: Why does it matter? Understanding why base layers are an important piece of kit is the same as understanding what makes the perfect walking shoe. It allows you to understand what suits your needs best and why.
Your base layer is important because it is a piece of clothing that sits next to your skin and is designed to help regulate your body temperature. So which one is the better option to choose? Wouldn’t it be great if it were that simple? As with most things in life, the choice comes down to several factors that will influence your decision. Probably the most important aspect is what you intend to use your base layer for, followed closely by cost.
Merino wool offers excellent insulating properties, and is soft and gentle against the skin. It also has natural antibacterial properties, protecting the wearer from bad odours during exercise. Synthetic base layers, on the other hand, are lightweight, more durable, and usually cost less than Merino wool options.
What are the advantages of Merino wool base layers?
Merino sheep originated from Spain but now are predominantly found in Australia and New Zealand – and they produce arguably the finest and softest wool in the world. This makes them extremely popular with clothing manufacturers, especially in the outdoor and sporting worlds.
- Insulating properties
If you have ever looked at buying a base layer before, you will be familiar with the term moisture-wicking. Possibly the most important job of a base layer is to move moisture away from your skin to help keep you warm when you are exercising. There probably isn’t a hiker in the world who hasn’t had that awful feeling of cold sweat when out in the hills. Merino wool is excellent at moving moisture away from the skin and preventing your temperature from dropping.
- Breathability
Of course staying warm is important, but being able to regulate your body temperature in warmer conditions is also vital. This is where Merino wool stakes its claim as a premium product. Allowing air to circulate and cool whilst you exercise plays a major role in why so many people opt for Merino wool.
- Odour control
Is there anything worse than being able to smell your own body odour? Well, potentially smelling other people’s, but you get the picture. Merino wool has natural antibacterial properties which prevents odour build-up much better than synthetic alternatives. This makes Merino wool the perfect option for multi-day hikes where regular washing might not be an option.
- Sustainability
Those looking to weigh-up the sustainability factor when purchasing their base layer will opt for Merino wool. Unlike synthetic rivals, Merino wool is a completely renewable fibre.
What are the disadvantages of Merino wool base layers?
- Cost
It will come as no surprise that with all of the benefits associated with Merino wool, so too comes a heftier price tag than synthetic options. On average, you will likely pay over 50% more for a Merino wool garment compared with a similar synthetic choice.
- Durability
Although usually machine washable, Merino wool products will tend to need more care when it comes to washing than synthetic materials. This may result in the item not lasting as long – however, this depends on the brand and quality.
- Drying time
Synthetic products tend to dry slightly quicker than Merino wool does – however, there really isn’t much in it.
What are the advantages of synthetic base layers?
Unlike Merino wool, synthetic base layers are created from man made fabrics – commonly polyester, nylon, or polypropylene. Synthetic base layers tend to be less expensive than Merino wool, and are often more durable.
- Cost
Due to the manufacturing process, synthetic base layers tend to be less expensive than Merino wool – often significantly so. This is one of the main reasons for the popularity of synthetic base layers with sports enthusiasts.
- Lightweight
Synthetic base layers are lightweight, which comes in handy when packing your rucksack.
- Moisture-wicking
Similar to Merino wool, synthetic base layers also have good moisture-wicking properties. This helps to keep sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable when exercising.
- Durability
Synthetic base layers tend to be more durable than Merino wool options, so you don’t need to worry about damage from the washing machine. They also dry quickly, making them a good option for trail running or water sports such as paddleboarding.
What are the disadvantages of synthetic base layers?
- Odour control
Merino wool wins hands down with this side of the debate when choosing the correct base layer. A synthetic base layer will require washing pretty much after every use to prevent the build-up of nasty odours. This could also be a drawback if you are doing longer multi-day hikes.
- Sustainability
Because synthetic base layers are man-made materials, they have a much greater environmental impact than Merino wool products. Being mainly made up of plastics, they also release micro plastics when washed.
- Breathability
Synthetic base layers are not as effective as Merino wool when it comes to helping to regulate your body temperature. Whereas a Merino wool base layer helps air to circulate and cool, a synthetic one is likely going to increase your body temperature by trapping the heat generated by your body.
