The Best Merino Wool T-Shirts to Buy Now
You'll never look at your other tops the same way again.
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.
What sets a merino wool T-shirt apart?
“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.”
What’s the difference between merino wool vs. other types of wool?
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.
Here are the best merino wool T-shirt picks for 2023
Best overall
Merino wool short-sleeve T-shirt
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.
Pros
- Available in nine colour
- Suitable for machine wash
- A great transition piece for changing weather conditions
- Wrinkle-resistant and great for travel
- Wicks moisture away from your body
- 100% Merino wool
- Also available in a long sleeve version
Cons
- Some reviews say it runs large, so try sizing down if you want a snugger fit
Best crew
Ibex women’s short sleeve crew
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.
Pros
- Available in four colours
- Breathable for optimal layering
- Suitable for machine-wash
- No tags for maximum comfort
Cons
- Since it has a slimming cut, it may be best to size up if you don’t want body-hugging feel
Best rated
Merino wool base layer T-shirt
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.
Pros
- Has a lifetime warranty
- Perfect for layering
- Moisture-wicking and odour-resistant
Cons
- While it is suitable for machine washing, some reviews recommend hand-washing to keep it intact for longer
Best for men
Men’s merino wool T-shirt
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.
Pros
- The purchase comes with a free pair of thermal socks
- Has a lifetime warranty
- Half the price of high-end merino wool T-shirts for men, while promising the same benefits
Cons
- Not suitable for machine wash
Best budget
Woolly Clothing Co. merino wool V-neck
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.
Pros
- Most affordable of our favourite Merino wool tees
- Available in three colours
- Added elastane for extra stretch
- Itch-free and perfect for layering
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Lightweight merino wool ideal for between seasons and layering
Cons
- Reviewers note that it has a long torso silhouette, so it may not be suitable for petite shapes
Best luxury
Arc’teryx Lana merino wool T-shirt
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.
Pros
- Responsibly-sourced merino wool
- Fair-trade certified
- Fits true to size
- Great base layer for cold weather
Cons
- Because it is an activewear basic, some reviewers wrote that they wish it came in more versatile colour-ways
Most versatile
Unbound merino women’s V-neck tee
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.
Pros
- Fast-drying
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Suitable for machine-wash
- Sustainably-sourced wool
- Also one of our favorite merino wool options available in the US
Cons
- Some reviewers note that the styling doesn’t work as well on petite body types as the length is quite long
Best plus size
Smartwool women’s short-sleeve merino T-shirt
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.
Pros
- Responsibly sourced merino wool
- Available in four colours
- Available in sizes up to 3X
- Sleek design that naturally hugs curves
- Timeless crew neck
- Odor resistant
Cons
- While it offers extended sizing, some reviewers note that its slim-fitting qualities cause it to run small
Experts:
- Dan Demsky, co-founder of Canadian brand Unbound Merino
- Marie-Élizabeth Lajoie, marketing manager of Smartwool
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