Merino in sport: why athletes choose it
Wool seemed like a sporting anachronism - until athletes rediscovered merino. We tell you why runners, skiers and climbers love it.
The main property: thermoregulation
Merino warms in the cold and prevents overheating in the warmth. The reason is the air pockets between the thin fibres: they retain body heat but release the excess.
Moisture management
The fibre absorbs up to 30% of moisture of its own weight while staying dry to the touch. Cotton in the same conditions sticks and cools the body during movement.
Odour resistance
Merino has a natural antibacterial ability: pairs can be worn for several workouts in a row without smell. Travellers and trail runners will appreciate it.
Where merino loses
Pure merino wears out quickly and is expensive. Therefore sports blends add polyamide for strength and elastane for fit. Look for a 60/30/10 balance.
Conclusion
Merino is irreplaceable for long-duration outdoor efforts. For the gym and asphalt, classic synthetic blends remain more practical and cheaper.