Base Layer differences between 100% Merino and Merino Blends

[bs571q]

Base Layer differences between 100% Merino and Merino Blends
Hello,

I am trying to decide between base layer manuafacturers such as Ice Breaker, Howies and Chocalate Fish which are made of 100% Merino wool and Merino blend base layers such as Ulfrotte (aka Woolpower) which consists of a blend of 60% merino wool, 25% polyester, 13% Polyamide and 2% Elastine.

1. Ulfrotte states that base layers which are worn close to skin may results in certain soil bacteria which will not die until the clothes are washed at 60 °C (140 °F). My question is whether other makers of 100% Merino washing recommendations of washing only in cool to luke warm water is sufficient to killl bacteria buildup from prolonged use?

2. Is Ulfrotte more prone to odor buildup since it is made from a blend of 60% merino wool, 25% polyester, 13% Polyamide and 2% Elastine.

Thaks for any insights members have to share.

 

[DWK2]

My Smartwool 100% merino top says to wash in cold water. I have an Ibex that is about a 65% merino blend that says the same thing.

DancesWithKnives

 

[storl]

I've never heard of any bacteria issues with merino and one of my jobs is managing an online business that sells Icebreaker and similar brands. I personally have probably 25 pieces of merino, wear them every day during the winter and most days during the summer, and bacteria/stink issues are never even remotely a problem. Merino is naturally odor-resistant and can take a lot more funk before stinking compared to poly or other materials.

As far as brands, I would say Icebreaker sits at the top, followed by others like Ibex, Smartwool, and brands that have merino incorporated into their line like Arc'Teryx and Mountain Hardwear. Icebreaker was buying something like 80% of the New Zealand merino supply a few years back, so you can be sure they get the best quality stuff. Their pieces are definitely softer than the other brands, and I have never had issues with durability, stitching coming apart, zippers blowing out, etc. Backcountry.com also has some very nice merino pieces with their brand/logo on them, and you can often find them at a steep discount in their outlet or steepandcheap.com.

The Icebreaker Tech T Lite is an essential piece of clothing for anyone in the outdoors, IMHO. Due to its temperature regulating properties, it will keep you cool in the summer, warm in the winter (as a baselayer), resists stink, wicks well, and is very comfortable. The only downside it has is that it does not dry as quickly as poly, although it does still insulate when wet. Our customers scoff at wearing wool in 100F Georgia heat and humidity...until they buy one and try it.