Last week we reviewed Icebreaker’s newer line of baselayers, the Icebreaker GT, that use a merino wool/synthetic blend. We also had a chance to try out their Bodyfit baselayers, a line of 100-percent merino baselayers. Read more for our full review.
If you’re looking for a basic but high quality baselayer, Icebreaker is definitely worth checking out. The 100-percent merino Bodyfit baselayers are available in three weights: the ultralite 150, lightweight 200, and midweight 260. Each weight is rated for both your environment and your activity level. Starting with the all-season 150 and working up to the colder weather 260 weight.
We tested the mid-range lightweight 200 style as a baselayer when skiing and found them to regulate body temperature in a wide range of climates. Whether it was in the high 40s and sunny, or below 30 degrees and snowing, the Bodyfit helped lock in heat to maintain a constant temperature and wicked away moisture, even after a long day making tracks on the mountain.
One of the big selling points of 100-percent merino wool products is the odor-resistance. However, it’s also very breathable, fire resistant, biodegradable, provides UV protection naturally, and dries quickly. An all-natural super-fabric! In my opinion, these pros all outweigh the additional care that is involved with laundering wool products.
As an extra bonus, Icebreaker helps you feel good about your purchase by being transparent in where they source their wool with their trademarked Baa Code system, which allows you to trace your garment all the way to the farm in the New Zealand Alps where it was grown (on a sheep, of course).
The Bodyfit line is available in a multitude of styles for both men and women. All styles feature flat-locked stitching to prevent hot spots and blisters and are a slim fit to eliminate bulk under multiple layers. Prices for the 200 weight styles range from $50 (for the tank) to $80 (for the half zip top).
Product sample provided by the manufacturer for review purposes.
