Smartwool Product Review

Wool vs. Synthetics

Over the years I have worn a lot of synthetic clothing. For whatever reason I am drawn to sports which synthetics seem well suited, typically in the form of lycra or spandex. Cycling, nordic racing, running, ski rando racing, etc… my games, all wrapped in lycra.

But then a few years back we started doing much of Smartwool’s advertising photography, at which time the Creative Manager started pushing wool on me. I politely dodged the idea and carried on with my own beliefs in syntheticism. I think it’s my road biking background that tainted me. Wool is something Eddy Merckx wore – in the 70’s… In my mind, we evolved into, uh, plastic clothing. Expensive plastic clothing! It pills, stinks, melts to your skin when you crash and has inconsistent performance. Did I mention it is made from oil?
Finally, as I seem to be kind of off the back with the trend, I decided to try the wool thing. The Smartwool Creative Manager, who has since become a friend, sent me a big box of fun hats, gloves and baselayers (Thanks!). I agreed to use it and review it – but the policy holds – I speak my mind.

Boot packing with the Lightweight Zip and a Microweight T

Reviews are subjective – is the reviewer someone you are willing to listen to? Brief Resume: I have close to 100 days skiing the backcountry each season and am in the mountains 320+ days each year – I have 23 years in the Outdoor Industry as both a professional photographer and athlete.

Smartwool : The Facts (as I see them)

Performance: I have primarily been using Smartwool’s Micro and Lightweight baselayers, both have a wider range of comfort than what I am used to in synthetics, meaning they keep me warm in the cold temps but not too warm when the temps increase. The feel is one of the things I like best, the Merino wool feels like cotton but performs as needed for temperature regulation and breathability.
Wicking/Drying: Wool suffers a bit from sweating, it does stay wet longer. But, it doesn’t feel clammy against the skin. Also, I found that as long as the layering system is not too far out of its temperature range, and gets some airflow, the wool will dry quickly.
Stink Factor: Unrivaled… Smartwool does not stink, no matter how hard I tried, and oh did I try, it just doesn’t stink, even the socks. Some of that 100 days in the backcountry were consecutive, without washing. Friends appreciated the switch to wool, many have switched themselves on stink factor alone.
Criticism?: I would like to see more sporty designs for athletes. Tighter fitting with more elastic that allows the sleeves to be pushed up without then becoming baggy. Also, designs incorporating different weights and materials into a paneled performance piece. Finally, for the baselayers; some stripes, accents, something! I don’t see this stuff as underwear, in many ways it is technical clothing, I want it to look the part.

Smartwool's Merino is undoubtedly more comfortable and cozy

Smartwool Summary

The Merino wool that Smartwool uses is the best feeling material against my skin. Wool seems to have a wider comfort range than synthetics but still, for high exertion activities it is important to not over layer. Get to know the systems and the temperature range they work within. And the socks? Simply the best, they last forever and maintain a snug, cozy fit.

Best of all, wool supports my firm belief that all things natural are best. I am sold.

Want to see more photos from the Italian Dolomites and our recent Smartwool Shoot, click here.

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Visit Smartwool’s fun site complete with many photos from PatitucciPhoto

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Disclaimer : In no way has PatitucciPhoto/DolomiteSport been paid to do this Review, it was our idea based on being happy with the product.