Wool's advantage in Mid-Layers
For outdoor enthusiasts, choosing the right mid-layer can make the difference between comfort and chill. Recent research confirms that 100% merino wool mid-layers deliver superior thermal regulation for stop-go sports like hiking, cycling, and skiing. Unlike synthetic fabrics, wool adapts to changing activity levels, keeping you warm when resting and cool when active.
How Wool Mid-Layers Work
Stop-go sports involve alternating periods of high-intensity activity and rest. During activity, perspiration is inevitable, but if trapped, it can lead to discomfort during rest. Wool’s natural thermoregulatory properties make it ideal for mid-layers:
- Moisture absorption and controlled release: Wool absorbs sweat and gradually releases it, preventing rapid cooling.
- Insulating and breathable: The fibre traps heat when you need it, yet allows excess warmth and moisture to escape.
- Hydrophobic outer layer: Slows evaporation, maintaining a comfortable micro-climate next to the skin.
Scientific Validation: Wool vs Synthetics
In the study, researchers tested 100% wool alongside cotton, viscose, and polyester garments of similar weight and thickness. Using both sweating manikins and human participants, wool consistently outperformed the others in dynamic conditions.
Key findings:
- Wool maintained thermal comfort even as relative humidity rose from 45% to 80%.
- Outperformed synthetics and other natural fibres in regulating temperature during alternating activity and rest phases.
This confirms that merino wool mid-layers provide unmatched dynamic breathability, making them the superior choice for stop-go outdoor sports.
Benefits for Outdoor Performance
By wearing wool mid-layers, athletes and outdoor adventurers benefit from:
- Stable body temperature during variable activity
- Reduced energy loss due to excessive sweating or chilling
- Enhanced comfort and endurance in stop-go environments
Whether hiking up a steep fell side or taking a break at a scenic viewpoint, wool mid-layers deliver consistent thermal performance.
Designing Mid-Layers with Wool
For outdoor enthusiasts, the message is clear: 100% merino wool mid-layers offer scientifically proven advantages over synthetic fabrics. Using wool as a mid-layers ensures garments that perform in real-world outdoor conditions, balancing warmth, breathability, and comfort.
Reference: Woolmark. Dynamic Breathability for Sport. North Carolina State University. Link