AO Review: Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt – All Season Performer
Patrik Orcutt 10.19.23
SmartWool, founded in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, in 1994, emerged as a trailblazer in the world of outdoor and performance apparel. The company’s journey began with a simple yet revolutionary idea: using Merino wool to create comfortable and functional clothing for outdoor enthusiasts. SmartWool recognized the incredible natural properties of Merino wool, such as moisture-wicking, temperature regulation, and odor resistance, which made it an ideal material for outdoor wear. Over the years, SmartWool honed its expertise in Merino wool and developed innovative knitting and fabric technologies, resulting in a wide range of products that cater to the needs of adventurers, athletes, and everyday consumers alike. Today, SmartWool continues to be a respected and sought-after brand in the outdoor industry, celebrated for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and the pursuit of comfort in the great outdoors. As the world of outdoor clothing continues to evolve, the importance of finding versatile and comfortable apparel becomes paramount. The SmartWool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt is a solution to the modern adventurer’s needs. This is truly a versatile piece of clothing as it can be worn all year long regardless of the temperature or activity.
Merino Coverage on AllOutdoor
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- AO Review: A Brief History of Merino Wool – “A Fabric Worth Fighting Over”
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- AllOutdoor Review – First Spear Mid Shirt – ACM™ Mid 400
The Merino Sport Hooded Shirt was privately purchased by myself and Smartwool has not been allowed to preview this article review prior to publication. I have been wearing the Merino Sport Hooded Shirt for the better part of 4 years now and it has been on many adventures with me from the German Alps to the deserts of Oregon. When I need to add a small piece of layering in my pack when I’m not sure where the day or evening will take me, this shirt seems to be what I use the most often.
Specs – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
- Materials – 56% Merino Wool, 44% Recycled Polyester
- Weight – 8 oz or 224 Grams
- MSRP – $100 (Often on sale for $60)
- Country of Origin – Vietnam
Material and Construction – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
The Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt incorporates the use of their signature Merino wool blend, consisting of 56% Merino wool and 44% polyester. This combination results in a fabric that excels in a wide range of conditions. Merino wool is renowned for its exceptional moisture-wicking properties, temperature regulation, and natural odor resistance. The addition of polyester enhances durability and shape retention.
The shirt’s construction is top-notch. It integrates different fabrics and materials while offering the ideal balance between warmth, breathability, and durability. The design incorporates a hood for added versatility and style, making it perfect for various outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to casual wear in colder weather.
Performance – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
The Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt truly excels in performance across different activities and weather conditions. Its moisture-wicking capabilities stand out, making it perfect for high-intensity outdoor activities. The shirt manages moisture effectively, keeping you dry and comfortable even during strenuous workouts or hikes.
One of the standout features of this shirt is its exceptional temperature regulation. The Merino wool naturally adapts to your body’s temperature, keeping you warm in cooler conditions and cool in hot weather. This versatility is especially valuable for all-season use, making it a go-to choice for my year-round adventurers. The shirt’s odor-resistant properties are also a notable advantage. Even after a full day of activity, it retains a fresh feel, significantly reducing the need for frequent washing. This is a big plus for extended trips and environmentally conscious consumers who prefer to minimize laundry.
Comfort – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
Comfort is where the Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt truly shines. The Merino wool blend feels incredibly soft against the skin, eliminating any itchiness or discomfort often associated with traditional wool. The shirt’s breathability ensures that you won’t overheat during physical activities, and the fabric’s natural elasticity allows for unrestricted movement. The thumb loops, a small but significant feature, enhance comfort by preventing the sleeves from riding up during activities. Additionally, the tagless design eliminates any potential irritation on the neck.
Durability – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
Smartwool is known for producing durable outdoor clothing, and the Men’s Merino Sport Hooded Shirt is no exception. The blend of Merino wool and polyester ensures that the shirt can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities and regular use. It holds up well to abrasion, making it suitable for backpacking, hiking, and other high-wear situations. I am honestly scratching my head how durable this thin shirt is! I have used it dozens of times on all-day outings and it has almost no signs of wear on it. This is probably the most impressive part of this shirt to me.
Value – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
The Smartwool Men’s Merino Sport Hooded Shirt falls into the upper mid-range price category for outdoor clothing. While it might be considered a bit pricey for some, the combination of high-quality materials, excellent performance, and versatile design justifies the cost. Its durability and the fact that it’s suitable for year-round use further enhance its overall value. Considering that the shirt can be worn in various outdoor settings, serves multiple purposes, and requires less frequent washing due to its natural odor resistance, it becomes an investment that offers long-term value in my opinion. It can often be found on sale for around $60 making it a real bargain.
Likes
- Exceptional moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties
- Versatile design with a stylish hood
- Comfortable and soft Merino wool blend
- Durable construction suitable for various outdoor activities
Dislikes
- Potential for pilling over time in high-wear areas
- Limited color options
Wrap-Up – Smartwool Merino Sport Hooded Shirt
The Smartwool Men’s Merino Sport Hooded Shirt is a versatile and high-performance piece of outdoor clothing that excels in a wide range of conditions. Its ability to regulate temperature, wick moisture, and resist odors makes it a dependable choice for both casual wear and high-intensity outdoor activities. While it may be a bit on the expensive side, the shirt’s durability and overall value make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking all-season comfort and style in their outdoor wardrobe. Whether you’re hitting the trails, going for a run, or simply enjoying a cool evening outdoors, this hoodie has got you covered.
