Is any item as ubiquitous as the humble T-shirt? It may not be the most glamorous garment on the market, but it’s a straightforward staple and a utilitarian must-have — which is why we all own approximately one million. “Does my closet need another tee?” you may be thinking. Well, we’re here to say that yes, in fact, it does: a merino wool T-shirt, to be exact.
With a soft-to-the-touch feel and moisture-wicking capabilities, merino wool has a reputation of being a “miracle textile” thanks to its unwavering longevity. And while we all know merino wool sweaters are great, merino wool T-shirts are pretty magical too.
“Merino wool T-shirts outperform cotton and synthetic tees in every way,” says Dan Demsky, co-founder of Canadian brand Unbound Merino. The fabric is naturally lightweight, breathable, and temperature-regulating, making it a go-to for layering, and a guaranteed source of comfort amid the most volatile weather. It also stops sweat — in other words, it requires way less washing.
Not to mention, it’s sustainable. “Merino wool is a natural and renewable fibre, meaning that it’s able to regrow and replace itself,” explains Marie-Élizabeth Lajoie, marketing manager of Smartwool. “In contrast, synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon are made using industrial processing of oil, which is a non-renewable fossil resource.”
Simply put: it’s a performance upgrade. Merino wool offers a finer texture than other wools, making it more lightweight and breathable. “Traditional wool is not as thin and is not as smooth,” says Lajoie.
It pokes into the skin and creates that dreaded itchy irritation. With merino wool clothing, your T-shirt has the feeling of loungewear with the technology of active gear.
Introducing: your new go-to T-shirt. For just $55, this biodegradable merino wool top lasts the test of time. Made ethically of wool imported from Australia and New Zealand, this garment is snag-proof.
It’s also temperature-regulating and UV-resistant. We love that.
This crewneck T-shirt has an effortless oversized style for a pull-on fit that puts you at styling ease. It’s perfect for a base layer when venturing out in the cold or as a standalone staple for those jeans-and-a-T-shirt days.
Skip extra laundry days. This brilliant Merino wool t-shirt is designed to require as little washing as possible. Each buttery tee is made of ultra-thin merino wool with a nylon core for added durability. It’s thermoregulating, non-itchy and breathable — beating odours all day long.
Made of a “do-everything textile,” this pick has refined details with clean-cut shoulder stitching and a flattering drape that never feels frumpy.
Despite their reputation for being a little unsexy, thermal T-shirts are doing the Lord’s work. These long-sleeve gems are an Amazon top-seller thanks to their all-day comfort and insulating properties. Designed for daily wear, they keep you cozy without overheating.
Choose from 40 styles and weights, so you can pick the level of insulation (and the look you want).
All in all, this is the ideal option for all multipurpose merino needs. Oh yeah — and it comes with a free pair of thermal socks! Your winter self-care routine just got cozier.
Keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, this lightweight short-sleeve tee is engineered for any kind of activity. Made of 100% superfine merino wool, it’s intended for all-day and all-season wear. We love the built-in UV protection and odour-fighting properties.
Reviewers love it for its high-tech feel and eye-catching colours.
Priced at a fraction of other quality wool brands, this T-shirt boasts similar technological wonders as any go-to merino wool garment. With a figure-hugging cut and V neckline, it brings a timeless design element to its practical structure.
Thanks to its four-way stretch, anti-chaffing and tagless material, it’s sure to keep you feeling capable without hurting your pockets.
One hundred dollars for a T-shirt? Hear us out, because we think it’s worth every cent. This merino-blend crew by Canadian brand Arc’teryx is made to perform during even your most rigorous activities. Though seemingly simple, it’s expertly engineered with added synthetic nylon fibres to enhance durability and fight odours.
Whether you’re packing for a trip or getting ready for a day of errands, this made-in-Canada merino wool T-shirt is ready for it all. Thanks to moisture-wicking fibres and no-frills design, it’s an inconspicuous addition to any wardrobe.
Notably softer than cotton, it’s a silky garment with amplified airflow — and you’ll always be glad to have it on hand.
Designed with a fit that follows the natural contours of the body, this size-inclusive merino wool T-shirt is intended for all shapes. It features a lightweight jersey fabric and incorporates nylon to secure a super durable wear. Plus, with its quality merrow stretch stitching, this merino T-shirt helps to increase your range of motion.
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Natalie Michie is the style editor at FASHION Magazine. With a pop culture obsession, she is passionate about exploring the relationship between fashion, internet trends and social issues. She has written for Elle Canada, CBC, Chatelaine and Toronto Life. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and over-analyzing movies on TikTok.
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