I’ve been carrying a lightweight wool coat since I started backpacking in the 1990s. Puffer jackets may become more popular, and merino wool is sustainable and odorless. But modest wool is durable, breathable and lightweight. It also has almost nothing. (I have a 30-year-old Marmot Fleece that is still great.)
Just like I still like that old wool, you may have noticed climbers and backpackers wearing specific types of high-tech wool – whether it’s the Patagonia R1, the Senchi Designs Alpha 120 or the famous, famous, incredible Melanzana microgrid. What’s this? Do you need it? This is a quick breakdown of wool varieties. Once you’re done here, check out the rest of our outdoor outfits, from the best raincoats to the best running shorts.
Unlimited access to power wired. Getting a first-class report is too important to ignore $2.50 $1 year per month. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive content for subscribers only. Subscribe now.
Original wool
There was wool a long time ago (and, to be precise, since the 1980s). The lightweight fabric was invented by Malden Mills (now known as Polartec). Most of the time, this is good. The unremarkable wool jacket I’ve been carrying over the years is perfect for high-speed traffic when the temperature suddenly drops and the wind is clamoring. Although wool is not as windproof as the shell, it can block the wind during hiking and rest. The wool is great in town, even on the trails.
It may also be a good choice for aerobic activity, depending on the temperature and ventilation options. For example, a semi-zippered fluff pullover provides more ventilation. I often start spring and fall hiking in spring and fall from cool mornings and it works very well. However, when you are very active (for example, you can all be more active), you may overwhelm the breathability of traditional wool. Textile manufacturers are starting to research new wool to address the lack of breathability.
Grid wool
When you actually moved to the wool creator LED Polartec, OG Fleece really ended up being overwhelmed to develop a grid wool called the Polartec Power Grid. The mesh wool is braided in a pattern with a mesh (hence the name) with about 5% elasticity (aka spandex).
The gaps in the grid allow more moisture, which greatly increases breathability. Grid blocks capture the air and keep you warm. The trade-off is that grid wool is much less efficient in the wind.
Greece is not usually intended to be something you put on the camp, but something you hike during the day. Indeed, grid wool is not a great standalone outfit. The wool is positioned excellent when paired with a windbreaker or raincoat. This combination is especially suitable for high oxygen intensity activities such as cycling. Pairing grid wool with my Patagonia Houdini wind shell is perfect for early rides on cold mornings. Grid wool with wind shells is better at blocking wind and is more breathable than traditional wool.
Alpha direct wool
Photo: Dike Outdoor
In 2017, Polartec, together with the U.S. military, created the Alpha Direct Fleece (sometimes called Alpha), which is lighter and more breathable than the Grid Fleece. Alpha Fleece uses a fishnet-like weave that keeps fiber high between weaves. For military purposes, the layer is then placed under the windproof outer layer, which makes it heavier. However, some bungalow industry hiking companies mastered the fabric and started making wool hoodies with Alpha Direct.
