So, you’re thinking about getting a Merino wool t-shirt. Whether this is your first or the final one to complete your travel clothing wardrobe, we’re here to help. Before we dive too far into the specific shirts we recommend, let’s talk about a few things that make Merino wool special. If you want even more detail than what we discuss below, we have a complete guide on Merino Wool clothing.
What is Merino wool?
Merino wool is a specific kind of wool that comes from a variety of sheep first bred in Spain. As time passed and selective breeding changed the sheep’s wool, Merino wool became a popular fabric for clothing.
It’s finer than standard wool, making it softer and more comfortable than what you’ll find in a cheaper shirt. However, the biggest selling point for travel is that the material has antimicrobial properties, meaning that it slows the growth of odor-causing bacteria. This means you don’t have to wash it as often, so you can cut down on the amount of clothing on your packing list. Plus, it’s solid at temperature regulation, making it a reliable option in warm, cold, and wet weather conditions. The best Merino t shirt will depend on your body and running temperature, so keep that in mind.
But wait, we aren’t done yet. Merino wool has natural elasticity, which adds comfort and strength long-term, offers sun protection, and is biodegradable. Seriously, this stuff is the real deal!
What is GSM, and how do Merino blends impact garment performance?
These properties are why Tom, our founder, started almost exclusively wearing Merino wool nearly a decade ago. We lean heavily on his experience and expertise in this post; thanks, Tom!
GSM, or grams per square meter, refers to the weight of the fabric. Typically, the higher the gsm, the thicker and warmer the fabric is. Not every shirt on this list is 100% Merino, meaning other materials are thrown in. Typically, these materials are nylon, elastane, or polyester. These are probably names you’re familiar with, but they affect Merino differently.
We talked to Mac Bishop, the founder of Wool&Prince, to find out how the production process impacts Merino's properties. According to Bishop, using a blend of synthetic fibers “significantly increases [the] durability of the fabric and lengthens the garments' lifespan.” This can come in the form of mixing it at the fiber level, wrapping the fiber around a Merino wool core, or even Wool&Prince's method of using “a filament-wrapped yarn with a wool core and two synthetic filaments” to reduce pilling and maintain a smooth feel. While all of that sounds very technical (because it is), most brands will explain the benefit of buying their blend—or lack thereof—directly on their page if you're torn between which Merino wool shirt to choose.
What are the different kinds of Merino wool shirts?
We’ve broken down Merino clothing into three categories based on our experience with different brands and fabric blends. Not every item on this list will fall into just one category, and some might not fit any of them perfectly, but it’s a general rule that will help us describe the clothing to you.
Daily driver: This is a casual shirt that can be dressed up or down, layered, and worn to work out in a pinch. These are the bread and butter of your packing list and will probably be your most worn shirt. We feel that these are the best Merino wool shirts for travel because of their versatility, but they may fall flat if your needs are more specific.
Athletic fit: These are meant to be used when you purposely push your heartbeat up, but they don’t stop there. We look for this style if we’ll be layering up because they’re usually more fitted, and sometimes we even prefer them for sleeping. While athletic fits can be worn casually, they often have more pronounced seams and hemlines, which looks more like a base layer than a casual t-shirt. Ultimately, it comes down to your preference.
Shiny shirts: Not all merino looks the same, and when you’ve tested enough of them like we have, you’ll start to notice that certain shirts have a sleek sheen to them. While polyester and nylon blends are incredibly common, they can impact the aesthetic of the shirt depending on if the Merino is on the outer or inner layer of the yarn, like we mentioned earlier. However, this isn’t always the case. These are generally versatile shirts, but we think the shiny look gives it more of an athletic feel even if the shirt is designed for casual wear. However, the material blend means they often last longer and don’t pill as fast, so that’s worth mentioning. If long-lasting performance is your goal, these might be the best Merino t-shirts for your next trip.
- Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt
- Wool & Prince V-Neck Tee
- Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt
- Woolly Everyday Crew Tee
- Proof 72-Hour Tee
- Duckworth Vapor Tee
- Ibex 24 Hour Short Sleeve Crew
- Smartwool Merino Short Sleeve Tee
- Icebreaker Merino Sphere II Short Sleeve T-Shirt
- Woolx Endurance Tee
- Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie
- Western Rise Limitless Merino Button-Down Shirt
- Wool & Prince Button-Down Oxford
- Wool & Prince Heavy Crew Neck
- Ridge Merino Aspect Midweight Merino Wool Base Layer Long Sleeve Shirt
Shirt type: Daily Driver
The Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt is one of Tom’s favorites, and for good reason. This 200 gsm shirt is made from 100% Merino wool, which gives you all of the benefits of the material. This means that it might not be as durable long-term as some of the blended options available, but we’ve been wearing this shirt almost daily for years and haven’t run into any issues yet. In fact, out of all the Merino wool shirts we’ve tested, this one has lasted longer than most and shows the least amount of wear. After years of use, there’s some pilling, but less than most 100% Merino options on the market, which we dig. Because of its durability, breathability, and pure construction, this is one of the best Merino wool shirts on the market.
There’s no women’s version available, so some readers might want to jump to the next item on this list. That said, the fit works well for most users, regardless of body type. It’s boxy without being oversized, so it makes a great everyday shirt and is easy to dress up or down.
Why We Like It- In over a year of testing, there’s minimal wear to the material compared to other 100% Merino shirts
- The 200 gsm material is comfortable for everyday wear and layers well
- There’s no women’s cut available
- We’ve noticed some pilling, although negligible
Shirt type: Shiny
The Wool & Prince V-Neck Tee offers more durability than 100% Merino options because it’s a 22/78 Nylon/Merino wool blend, meaning that it’s just over three-quarters Merino. The nylon adds extra ruggedness, a little more elasticity, and helps slow the effects of pilling.
However, cutting out some of that Merino will come at a cost. This 160 gsm shirt is comfortable and has the same antimicrobial effects as others on this list, but it won’t be as strong in either aspect due to the nylon weave. We still feel that this is one of the best Merino wool t shirt options on the market because of its versatility, but if you’re after complete odor protection and the warmth and cooling properties Merino has to offer, look for a model that doesn’t have any filler.
If you’re looking for a feminine fit, check out Wool & Morgan V-Neck Tee, which is the women’s cut of this shirt. It has all of the same features and is made with the same material but is designed with a feminine frame in mind.
Why We Like It- Minimal pilling after months of wear
- It’s lightweight 160 gsm construction also does well as a performance shirt
- It’s only 78% Merino, so you lose out on some Merino wool properties
- It comes in other cuts if you’re not into the V-neck style
Shirt type: Daily Driver
Unbound Merino is another brand that’s a household name for ultralight travelers and Merino-lovers alike. Overall, we’ve found that Unbound’s materials pill slightly more than Outlier, but that isn’t to say that this shirt doesn’t hold up. Outlier is one of the best in the business, and we’d place Unbound Merino just behind them in the rankings.
This shirt comes in at 190 gsm, so it’s a solid all-season option, and it’s crafted from 100% Merino. As we’ve covered, this will give you all the benefits the fabric offers, but it won’t be as durable long-term as some of the blends available. It does well concerning pilling, even if it can’t live up to the high standard Outlier has set for the Merino community at large.
Men’s and women’s versions are available, so everyone can find a cozy fit to travel the world, go to work, and exercise. Based on comfort, durability, and longevity, these are some of the best Merino wool shirts for travel.
Why We Like It- It’s crafted from 100% Merino and comes in at 190 gsm, which is comfortable and breathable
- There are men’s and women’s cuts available
- We’ve noticed that the material pills slightly after a few washes
- Soft material starts to feel a bit fuzzy after a while
Shirt type: Daily Driver
The Woolly Everyday Crew Tee comes in at a slightly lower price than some of the other 100% Merino wool options on this list, making it a solid budget option for those on a budget. Still, at roughly $65 a pop at the time of writing, we recommend you make sure this is the shirt for you before buying a whole travel backpack full of them!
At 175 gsm, this shirt does well year-round and can be worn casually or to work out. There are more colors available than we’re used to seeing from most Merino t shirts, which is a pleasant surprise. At the time of writing, there’s Black, Charcoal, Grey, Deep Sea, Kale, Burgundy, and a blend of Kale and Grey with a front pocket. Plus, there’s a feminine variety, too, so everyone can find a comfortable shirt for their next trip. There are even more colorways in that category, which is a nice bonus.
Why We Like It- It’s one of the more budget-friendly 100% Merino options on this list
- The price tag is lower than we usually see for shirts of this type
- It will start to pill quickly, though it’s not unmanageable
- The visible stitching on the seams gives it a more athletic vibe
Shirt type: Shiny
As the name describes, the Proof 72-Hour Merino T-Shirt is meant to be worn more than once between washes. That’s true for any Merino shirt, but this one is in the name, so it’s hard to get by without mentioning it.
There are two versions of this shirt—Performance and Classic. Both boast 87% Merino wool and 13% nylon, which adds durability and structure. You aren’t going to get 100% of the effects of the Merino wool, but an A- never hurt anyone, right?
At the time of writing, the Performance model comes in a mind-boggling 17 colorways, so all your shirts don’t need to be black, gray, and brown. We’re not hating on those colors, but a little originality never hurt. There’s no women’s version available at the time of writing.
Why We Like It- The Merino/nylon blend adds structure and durability
- There are 17 colorways to choose from, an oddity regarding Merino wool
- It isn’t 100% Merino, so you won’t get all the perks
- There’s no women’s cut available at the time of writing
Shirt type: Athletic
We’re fans of the Duckworth Vapor Tee’s saturated colorways, which aren’t all that common, even for shirts with multiple color options. It’s crafted from 38% Merino wool, 50% polyester, and 12% modal. This isn’t a Merino majority, which may make it difficult to justify the near $70 price tag. That said, it’s a more durable option, making it ideal for travelers who are more rough with their gear. At 150 gsm, it’s comfortable and fairly lightweight compared to the other shirts on this list. It’s pretty thin, but it’s also very soft, so this is great if you like wearing shirts that walk the line between everyday and lounge.
We’ve noticed the shirt is starting to get a little fuzzy after a few wears, and we’re a little concerned about the neckline stretching out over time because of how it’s stitched together. That said, it’s holding up well overall.
We dig that there are men’s and women’s fits are available, too. For those looking for a durable option with Merino properties that take a bit of the backburner, this is one of the best Merino wool shirts.
Why We Like It- At 150 gsm, it’s a comfortable shirt for working out and daily use
- There are men’s and women’s fits available, both of which are comfortable
- The shirt is only 38% Merino, which is on the lower end
- The material started to get fuzzy after only one wash
Shirt type: Athletic
The Ibex 24 Hour Short Sleeve Crew offers a casual fit that works while traveling, working from home, working out, or hanging out with friends. You can layer it in a pinch to stay warm in cold weather, too. It’s crafted from 100% Merino, so you’ll get the full force of the Merino properties while wearing this shirt.
It comes in at 165 gsm, which is lightweight if you want to layer but more than capable of holding its own. There are four colorways available at the time of writing, which offer higher saturation that we’re used to seeing. Typically, 100% Merino shirts are base colors, so more colorful options are fun. There’s a women’s version, too, and while the neckline is a scoop, the rest of the shirt is a pretty similar cut, and there are a few additional colorways available.
Because of the breathability and versatility offered by the 100% Merino construction and lightweight nature of the fabric, this is one of the best Merino t shirt models on the market for active travelers who like to stay comfortable all day long.
Why We Like It- With 100% Merino wool and 165 gsm of materials, it’s a comfortable fit that breathes and layers well
- There are more saturated options available compared to the greys and blacks of other brands
- The cut looks sporty, which takes away from a more everyday look
- Some users note that the material is slightly scratchy
Shirt type: Athletic
The Smartwool Merino Short Sleeve Tee isn’t 100% Merino; however, the blend ensures that Merino is always touching your skin because of how the yarn is spun, enabling you to get the most out of the fabric while enjoying the extra durability offered by the 12% nylon thrown into the mix.
Men’s and women’s cuts are available, with eight colorways available for the former and seven for the latter at the time of writing. This is a daily driver that’ll take you where you want to go, from the office to the gym and the bar. Despite not being 100% Merino wool, the way it’s blended ensures you get the most out of the antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties, making this a solid choice as one of the best Merino t shirt models on the market.
Why We Like It- Despite not being 100% Merino, the design of the yarn ensures that the good stuff is always touching your skin
- The men’s and women’s versions have unique styles and colorways
- At 88% Merino, you won’t get all the properties we’ve listed here
- Because the Merino fibers are on the exterior, pilling still tends to occur after a few washes
Shirt type: Athletic
The Icebreaker Merino Sphere II Short Sleeve Shirt was made to work out, but you can wear it for just about anything. It’s a 60/40 blend of Lyocell and Merino, which isn’t the most favorable on this list; however, the Lyocell adds durability and helps retain a soft feel for working out, hanging out, and traveling.
Men’s and women’s versions are available, and there are numerous colorway options, so you can find something that fits your packing list and the vibes you’re trying to attain from your clothing on your next trip. After all, everyone needs a shirt that matches their sling, right?
While this isn’t even close to being the cheapest shirt on this list, it’s a durable option with Merino capabilities, so you shouldn’t rule it out for your next trip. After all, the best Merino wool shirts for travel are different for everyone!
Why We Like It- The Lyocell/Merino blend is durable and stretchy, making it a perfect option for comfort and working out
- It’s incredibly soft for the blend of materials
- The price is steep for a 60/40 blend shirt
- The athletic cut won’t work for everyone, but it is comfortable
Shirt type: Daily Driver
If you’re looking for a shirt that can do it all, look no further than the Woolx Endurance Tee. There’s a women’s version, too, dubbed the Woolx Addie Short Sleeve Crew. It walks the walks, talks the talk, and is uber comfortable. Coming in at 150 gsm and an 85% Merino, 12% Nylon, and 3% Spandex blend. It’s pretty lightweight, making it comfortable to wear year-round; plus, the nylon adds durability, and the spandex helps keep the shirt wrinkle-free and stretchy.
Whether going to the airport, hitting the gym, or hopping between bars after a long travel day, the Woolx Endurance Tee will get you there and ensure you’re comfortable and look good when you get there. Considering the durability, Merino properties, and versatility, this has to be one of the best Merino wool shirts on the market.
Why We Like It- The blend includes some spandex, which adds stretch and comfort
- There’s a dedicated women’s cut
- We’ve noticed pilling after a few washes
- It’s only 85% Merino and the shirt is 150 gsm, which isn’t great as a baselayer
Shirt type: Daily Driver
We know what you might be thinking: $250 for a zip-up sweatshirt? Seriously? We get that, but hear us out.
The Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie is one of Tom’s favorites, and for good reason. It comes in at 250 gsm, thicker than most of the clothing on this list, so you’ll get more warmth out of it. It’s crafted from 97% Merino, which offers all the great qualities we’ve mentioned throughout this piece, and 3% elastane, which adds durability and helps the hoodie stretch more.
At the time of writing, there are five colorways available, all of which are sleek, so this will go with all the clothing you take on a trip. Thanks to the 250 gsm fabric we mentioned earlier, it has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and is highly packable. However, if you’ve got heavy items in either of the pockets, we’ve noticed it’ll sag slightly, so we use them more for hand-warming than storage.
There isn’t a women’s cut at the time of writing, which will deter some travelers. That said, this thing is cozy regardless of your body shape, and we find the fit to be pretty neutral anyway. Despite only working in certain climates, this is one of the best Merino wool shirts for any season if you get cold easily!
Why We Like It- The 250 gsm construction is excellent for layering and staying warm
- Simple style is versatile for different weather and occasions
- The cost is an investment if you’re a big fan of Merino wool, though may not be for you if you’re unsure
- The materials stretch a lot, making the pockets look saggy with heavier items inside
Shirt type: Daily Driver
Just because you want a Merino shirt doesn’t mean you should sacrifice looking professional for work or fancy for a date. The Western Rise Limitless Merino Button-Down Shirt solves that issue, as its button-down construction works for both scenarios.
This men’s cut is crafted from 53% Merino and 47% polyester, so you get a mix of Merino benefits with the durability and elasticity of polyester. There are five colorways to choose from, so you can get something that matches your favorite business or date night slacks.
We noticed pilling after a short time of testing, though it wasn’t enough to ruin the aesthetic of the shirt for us; it just isn’t as clean as it will be when you purchase it. Be sure to follow the washing instructions, as this can lengthen its life and how long it looks crispy. If you’re in the market for something Merino that’s fancier than the t-shirts on this list, this might be one of the best Merino wool shirts for you.
Why We Like It- It’s comfortable and durable thanks to the polyester blend
- It isn’t too fancy, so it can be dressed up or down
- It’s just 53% Merino, minimizing the effects of the material
- The pilling is noticeable after just two weeks of testing
Shirt type: Daily Driver
Most of the time, the biggest complaint about Merino wool is that it pills or isn’t very durable. Tom has been wearing the Wool & Prince Button-Down Oxford for over three years, and his original shirt still looks nearly as crisp and clean as it did the day he purchased it. Considering that, the variable price between roughly $130 and $150 doesn’t seem so bad.
There are multiple versions of this shirt available. You can choose between 130, 170, and 210 gsm models depending on how thick you like your collared shirts to be. There are regular, slim, and tall fits for different body shapes, and we’ve got five colorways to choose from at the time of writing. How’s that for customizability?
All three versions are 100% Merino wool, but a blend option with a 76/24 Merino/Linen construction is also available. Linen is typically softer and is natural, which are perks.
This shirt is comfortable and breathable and offers all the perks of wearing Merino wool you’d want for travel. It’s a little hot in warm weather, but apart from that, this is one of the best Merino wool shirts for those who need to bring a button-down on their next trip.
Why We Like It- After over three years of testing, the materials are still holding up without pilling
- There are 130, 170, and 210 gsm options available for every climate and preference
- The price is higher than most of the shirts on this list
- They tend to run warm when the temperature rises
Shirt type: Daily Driver
Having a shirt that works as a base layer or can be worn as-is works well while traveling. If that shirt is crafted from Merino wool, you’ll have more reasons to pack it for your next trip. Enter the Wool & Prince Interlock Sweatshirt. Its 300 gsm construction adds warmth to your outfit as a base layer, and the exterior is polished enough to be worn without anything over it.
The sweatshirt has a 78% Merino 22% nylon blend, which won’t have the same qualities as a 100% Merino shirt but offers added durability thanks to the nylon. It’s a cozy offering from Will & Prince that will fit nicely into your packing list, no matter the destination.
Why We Like It- The 300 gsm construction makes it a solid option as a base layer
- You can wear it as a stand-alone shirt when push comes to shove
- It’s only 78% Merino, which is on the lower end of some of the more expensive shirts on this list
- The tighter fit won’t work for everyone
Shirt type: Daily Driver
For ages, Merino wool was known as a luxury item\, but after some brands began to offer budget-friendly prices for quality products, it opened the door to Merino wool for more travelers.
The Ridge Aspect Midweight Merino Wool is a solid baselayer, a great option for working out on chilly mornings, and comes in five colorways (at the time of writing). The material is an 84% Merino 16% nylon blend, which is durable and comfortable. The shirt comes in at 180 gsm, which is comfortable for most situations, though a little on the thicker side when it comes to workout shirts.
In addition to being comfortable and durable, this shirt offers UPF 50+ protection from the sun’s rays, which is ideal for warm climates. Plus, there’s a women’s cut, too, so everybody can find the perfect fit. If you’re looking for a base layer that can work as a workout or pajama shirt, this might be one of the best Merino wool shirts for you.
Why We Like It- It’s one of the more budget-friendly options on this list and offers UPF 50+ protection
- Some users have noted pilling after roughly a month of use
- It isn’t the most stylish shirt, so it might be better as a base layer
- It’s just 84% Merino, so you won’t get all the perks of some of the shirts on this list
So there you have it! Some of the best (and softest) Merino wool shirts that work well for travel. Whether you’re looking for a dedicated airplane shirt, something you can wear to work, or want to expand your clothing horizons; hopefully, you’ve added something to your cart already.
