A couple of years back, both Smartwool and Ibex introduced wool insulation—so you knew it was only a matter of time until Icebreaker followed suit. Found in a variety of technical and lifestyle pieces, Icebreaker’s new MerinoLOFT insulation is created from premium, ethically-sourced wool fibers.
MerinoLOFT garments make up Icebreaker’s warmest layers ever. As it is made from wool, the insulation keeps you warm even when wet, making the jackets great layering pieces for adverse weather conditions.
Ten percent of the insulation comes from recycled merino offcuts salvaged from the factory floor. The wool fibers are intertwined to create a blanket filler that won’t clump and is machine washable. The shell on each garment is made from recycled polyester and DWR treated so it sheds precipitation. A durable woven merino liner next to your skin helps regulate temperature and breathes to prevent overheating and clamminess.
The more outdoor oriented MerinoLOFT jackets include the men’s and women’s Helix Hood ($285) with a close-fitting hood and an internal storm flap for extra warmth and protection. The Helix Hood has a tapered construction to give it an even sleeker, more slimmed-down look and comes with a drawcord hem and merino lined cuffs to keep out the cold for even more warmth.
MerinoLOFT technical mid layers, which can be worn under a shell, are the men’s and women’s Helix Vest ($200) and Helix Zip ($250). These versatile layers have stretchy side panels and a zippered inside stash pocket with a media port.
The various Icebreaker MerinoLOFT pieces are available now.