Smekker Half-Zip Baselayer - 100% Merino Wool - Black

Unlike synthetic materials, wool retains its insulating properties even when damp. In fact, it can hold up to 35% of its own weight in moisture before feeling wet. This means that even damp wool clothing can still keep you warm and dry. 

Wool has unique insulation properties that help your body adjust to different temperatures, whether you're sweating in cold weather or trying to stay cool in the summer heat. This makes wool comfortable to wear all year round, and adapting to the changing seasons is as easy as layering up or down. 

Unlike synthetic materials, wool is 100% natural and renewable. And because wool doesn't need to be washed as frequently as synthetic fabrics, it helps reduce microplastic pollution in our oceans. 

Wool has natural antibacterial properties that prevent the growth of microorganisms and odors. This means you can wear wool for several days without it getting smelly. And when it's time to freshen up, all you need to do is air it out. 

Merino wool is known for its fine, silky-smooth fibers that feel comfortable against your skin. The elasticity of Merino wool fibers also helps ensure a better fit, even after washing. In addition to these benefits, studies have shown that Merino wool can even provide relief from skin conditions like eczema.

The weight of a wool product gives a good indication of its warmth and thickness. Learn more about the differences in weight here.

Heavyweight base layers (225g and up) provide the most warmth, with our iconic Rose and Silja standing out in this category. Midweight base layers (185g–224g) offer balanced warmth, making Smekker and Else our bestsellers. For a lighter feel, our lightweight base layers (140g–184g) include favorites like Sval and Fryd, perfect for milder conditions or layering.

Micron is the unit used to measure the diameter of wool fibers. Not sure what to look for or what the micron indicates? Keep reading!

The finer the wool, the lower the micron value. Fibre diameter is the key factor in determining wool’s quality and value, influencing its softness, durability, and overall feel.

Rougher wool is 35.40 micron, whilst superfine wool is 17-21 micron.

Wool is a natural fiber most commonly obtained from sheep. Wool is used in a variety of textiles

and can be found woven or knitted. After shearing washing and carding, the fibers are spun

The Merino is an economically influential breed of sheep prized for its wool. The breed is originally from southern Spain and later inroduced to Australia. Merinos are regarded as having some of the finest and softest wool of any sheep. Merino wool is common in high-end, performance athletic wear.

Merino wool is excellent at regulating body temperature, especially when worn against the skin. The wool provides warmth, without over heating the wearer. It draws moisture away from the skin, this process is called wicking. A merino wool fiber can absorb and retain up to 30% of its own weight in moisture and still feel dry to the touch. This helps to avoid hypothermia after sweating from demanding exercise or getting wet in the rain.

Merino wool is one of the softest types of wool available, due to its fine fibers and small scales. Merino wool has a porous structure giving it great thermal insulation properties. The structure of the fibers creates millions of air pockets, all of which further help to regulate temperature and humidity.