friends drink coffee in Ridge Merino base layers while preparing for a day splitboarding

Merino Wool: Nature's Fabric

Merino wool is an entirely natural, renewable and biodegradable fiber that comes from the Merino breed of sheep. Merino wool is softer and lighter than traditional wool because the fibers from Merino sheep are finer and smoother. As a result, the fabric is thinner and buttery soft next-to-skin — unlike the scratchy feeling you may typically associate with wool.

Merino Wool is truly nature's miracle fabric. In warm weather, lightweight Merino breathes and wicks sweat away from your body keeping you cool and dry. It also offers natural protection from the sun's harmful rays. In cold weather, Merino is is ideal for layering. The natural weave of the fiber traps body heat to insulate you and regulate your core body temperature.

What is merino wool, and what are the benefits?

Merino wool is an entirely natural, renewable and biodegradable fiber. Our Merino wool is sustainably sourced from certified-humane sheep farmers in Australia and New Zealand. Here are our top five reasons why we love Merino wool clothing and think you will too.

Ridge Merino Wool Clothing Benefits graphic
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All Natural

Our Merino clothing is made from all natural Merino wool fiber that is renewable and biodegradable.

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Moisture Management

The natural fibers of our Merino wool clothing wick moisture away from your skin to prevent clamminess.

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Odor Free

Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial, so it's odor resistant, aka stink-free.

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Soft Next to Skin

Warm, breathable, and soft next to skin. Merino wool clothing keeps you cozy even when the weather gets harsh.

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UV Protection

Merino wool is a naturally UV resistant material to keep you protected from the sun.

What makes Ridge Merino different?

Family Owned

Ridge Merino is a family-owned business based in California's awe-inspiring Eastern Sierra. We have seen firsthand the healing benefits of nature and believe Merino wool makes the best performance clothing for all types of outdoor activity. We strive to develop well-made natural, sustainable clothing that allows everyone to feel comfortable outside.

Durability

(m)Force, an exclusive Ridge Merino performance technology, features super soft Merino fibers spun around a continuous nylon filament for improved strength and durability. The result is a burst strength that is 50% stronger than comparable weights of Merino fabrics.

We Care

Every purchase gives back. Through Ridge's partnership with 1% for the Planet, we are proud to contribute to some great non-profit organizations that are helping to make the world a better place, including: Waterkeeper Alliance, Protect our Winters, Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center and The Access Fund.

Merino Wool vs. Traditional Wool vs. Synthetic


Feature
Merino Wool
Traditional Wool
Synthetic
Buttery soft fibers
Antimicrobial
Moisture-wicking
Sun protection
Regulates body temperature
Machine washable
Quick drying
Improves sleeps
Static-free
Itch-free
Lightweight
Flame-resistant
Biodegradable

Learn about the other materials we use.

Hands pulling apart Merino wool to show the fibers
Merino sheep grazing in a green pasture