When heading out for a run, regardless of the time of year, you as a runner have an abundance of choices when it comes to the clothing you wear. Gone are the days of cotton t-shirts, sweatshirts and sweatpants (I’ve been there, done that and I’m not going back).
Today, you have so many materials to choose from like synthetics, including polyester or nylon, or natural options like bamboo and wool. There are even blends with a mixture of synthetic and natural fibers.
This article is going to focus on wool. You’re probably wondering who in their right mind would run in wool? But, this isn’t the old school, itchy sweater wool of days gone by.
Stick with me as I dig into why wool, specifically Merino wool, is a go-to performance fabric for all kinds of weather. And then check out some of my favorite wool gear for runners.
What is Wool?
This seems pretty obvious, but let’s just get a basic definition out there. Wool is a fiber we get from sheep, but also other mammals, including goats and rabbits.
Wool grows from the animals skin, kind of like hair grows out of ours. Wool is sheared and then it regrows. It can be made into a variety of items like clothing and textiles.
Wool has been in use for a really, really long time. We’re talking thousands of years.
Why Choose Wool for Running?
Wool, particularly Merino wool, has become a go-to choice for running fabrics. Why?
Well, it’s an incredibly versatile fabric.
It’s known for its moisture wicking capabilities and its breathability, which helps our bodies regulate our temperatures regardless of the season. How does it do this? It traps air to provide insulation while moving moisture away from the skin.
Merino wool is also odor-resistant and resists stains, and can be blended with other fibers, which can help with durability. You may find you don’t need to wash Merino wool gear as much as synthetic gear thanks to the odor-resistant qualities. Line dry after wearing and it’s ready to go for your next run.
Wool has a place in your wardrobe, regardless of whether you’re tackling summer runs or cold-weather runs.
Best Wool Gear for Runners
I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite wool gear items. These are all made with merino wool, usually a blend with synthetics. An added bonus is that this gear will also be useful for cross-training, camping, hiking, or even everyday wear.
For some categories, I have more than one favorite listed. Hopefully this serves to provide additional options when you’re shopping.
Darn Tough socks are just that: Darn tough!
The Stride Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight running socks are made from anti-chafe Merino wool with a next-to-skin fit making them super comfortable to wear.
The socks boast extra durability knit into the heel, footbed, and the outside toes. They’re performance socks so no slipping, bunching, or blisters are to be expected. The Merino wool also ensures the socks provide excellent breathability and dry quickly.
Like PAKA socks, these come with a lifetime guarantee.
- Sizes: S-L
- Material: 55% Nylon, 38% Merino wool, 7% Lycra Spandex
- Price: $20
- Care: Machine wash inside out, tumble dry
Is Smartwool Better than Darn Tough?
Both brands are well loved by those who choose either. Both brands offer a variety of thickness and lengths in their socks. Both brands are high quality.
So is one better than the other comes down largely to a matter of opinion. Some have said that Smartwool is not as durable, but I haven’t found that to be the case. I think it could depend on if you get a thicker sock and therefore that lasts a bit longer than thin one?
Are Merino Socks Good for Hot Weather?
Yes! Because wool is so moisture-wicking it’s going to help pull all that sweat away from the feet which can help to prevent blisters and other uncomfortable foot issues.
Of course the main thing here is to choose thinner socks in the summer. I feel like that’s a no-brainer, but maybe you didn’t even realize that running socks come in a wide variety of thickness!
Added bonus, wool is great for preventing smelly feet. So if you’re traveling and need to go multiple uses before washing, these are a winner.
What is The Downside of Wool Socks?
The biggest downside is expense, but truly I can’t find many running socks that are less than $12 a pair so if comparing to other running socks…eh.
It should be noted that if you go with a lower quality product, they could feel itchy. I’ve never found that with any of the main running brands Smartwool, Darn Tough, Feetures, etc.
Best Wool Long-Sleeves Running Shirts
There are so many wool long-sleeve shirt options on the market, it was hard to pick a favorite so I narrowed it down to 2!
Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer
The Brighton Base Layer long sleeve running shirt is a shirt I’ve recommended in the past.
It can be worn on its own, but also serves as a great base layer with a jacket or vest. It boasts a comfortable fit that’s not too loose but not too tight. 
It’s made from an engineered Merino mesh for a seamless and lightweight fit. The core of the shirt is a mesh that’s more open, while the sleeves are made with a closed knit to keep your arms warm.
Tracksmith can run a bit smaller so consider sizing up for a looser fit.
- Style: Long Sleeve
- Sizes: XS-LMaterial: 52% Wool, 28% Nylon, 20% Polyester
- Price: $88
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
Craft ADV Trail Wool Wind Long Sleeve Tee
Another great option is this long sleeve running tee by Craft. It’s a polyester and wool blend that has some unique features. I have become such a huge fan of their gear because it’s designed for people who are spending full days outside in the winter sweating.
They know what they’re doing!
The front has a durable windproof front in a stretch ripstop material. It also has side slits and a taped neck hole. If you run with a waterpack or backpack, there are silicone shoulder prints to keep your pack secure.
Craft’s clothing tends to run long and lean so sizing up is recommended.
- Style: Long Sleeve
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 80% Polyester, 20% Merino Wool
- Price: $130
Is Merino Wool Itchy as a Base Layer?
How Many Days Can You Wear Merino Base Layer?
As noted for many wool is their go to gear for long adventures and also for me when we’re doing massive running vacations. Which means that sometimes things need to be worn multiple times before you have a chance to wash.
Since you’re most likely wearing short sleeves in warmer temps, a great Merino wool option for warmer weather is the Icebreaker Merino Sphere II short sleeve. This is a merino blend tee using their Cool-Lite jersey fabric for breathability, odor resistance, and comfort.
This shirt also has offset shoulder seams to reduce friction and a drop tail hem for a little extra coverage in the back.
- Style: T-shirt
- Size: XS-XL
- Material: 60% Lyocell, 40% Merino wool
- Price: $75
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
These are such great year-round gloves. Merino wool is that perfect lightweight for those chilly spring and fall mornings. It’s going to easily wick away sweat, providing just the right level of warmth.
These gloves feature a conductive material on the index finger and thumb that definitely works. I’ve worn these alot and I’m really impressed that I could fully use my phone.
A definitely winner for me. Especially because they are thin enough to also pair with another mitten when temps really drop.
The small also actually fits my hand well, even as unisex.
- Unisex Size: XS-XL
- Material:94% Merino Wool, 6% Lycra Elastane
- Price: $50
- Care: Says handwash, but I’ve dumped them in the washer on cold
These tights are super comfortable and designed for those truly cold winter days! I love me some fleece because it too wicks away, so combined with the wool it’s a winning strategy to not get chills on those sweaty cold runs.
I love that they have thigh pockets that are great for an ID or credit card, or even a cell phone (we know I find this to be an important feature in tights now). They also have a high-rise and wide waistband that doesn’t roll down.
- Style: Tights (option with windblocker panels)
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 46% polyester/38% merino wool/16% elastane
- Price: $120
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
This lightweight beanie can actually be worn year round, believe it or not. It’s great for running, skiing, under a bike helmet, you name it! Truly I’m a gal who NEEDS a beanie to get out the door for my winter runs, so this is something you’ll see on me a TON in a variety of styles.
The beanie is made with Merino 150 fabric for solid durability and is one size fits most.
There are a few styles like if you want fleece for an even warmer option or a long option because you like to roll it up or have a bigger head :).
- Style: Beanie
- Size: One size
- Material: 87% Merino wool, 13% Nylon
- Price: $25
- Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Wool Running Underwear – PAKA Underwear
The PAKA performance underwear has great reviews and I will add my name to that list! These are made from alpaca wool and are great for running, mountain biking, and other activities.
Like Merino wool, alpaca wool provides similar thermoregulating features. They dry quickly, faster than many other types of wools. The wool also has a lighter feel thanks to air pockets in alpaca fibers. And just like Merino, alpaca wool is naturally odor-resistant.
They are so thin and light, I’m absolutely a fan of how they feel to wear anytime next to my skin. But an extra win on the run for any temp. Also available as briefs for our gentleman runners.
A major win to have that anti-odor and anti-microbial feature!
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Material: 41% Alpaca wool, 8% Tencel, 50% Nylon, 1% Spandex
- Price: $70/3 pairs
- Care: Machine wash cold
If you’re a cold weather runner, a great outer layer option is the Tracksmith Nor’Easter Jacket. While pricey, this jacket provides a lot of bang for the buck.
The exterior shell repels water and wind, while the Merino liner provides the warmth you need without bulky layers. It has zippered pockets for storage and a few small reflective details.
Listen, I’ll give it to you straight…this is a jacket I’d wear around town, but if I were shelling out $$ for a running jacket, it would be one from my list of best running jackets.
- Style: Full-zip jacket
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 51% Wool, 28% Nylon, 16% Polyester, 5% Elastane
- Price: $298
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
Best Wool Running Headbands
I picked the following two headbands because one is a bit more lightweight, while the other will be great for winter conditions.
Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Headband
This headband is lighter weight, but provides windproof coverage for those cooler, windy days.
It has soft brushed Merino next to your skin for cozy comfort and a windproof panel to keep out the bluster. The headband also has reflective detailing and comes in three colors.
- Style: Headband (ear cover)
- Size: One size
- Material: 47% Polyester, 38% Merino wool, 15% Elastane
- Price: $30
- Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Smartwool Printed Headband
This headband has a nice wide size and a great multicolor print. The exterior is 100% polyester, while the inside is a Merino wool blended with polyester for improved durability over the long haul.
This would be great throughout the winter months on the trails and roads.
- Style: Headband (ear cover)
- Size: One size
- Material: 70% Polyester, 25% Merino wool, 4% Nylon, 1% Elastane
- Price: $30
- Care: Machine wash, lay flat to dry
Best Wool Sports Bras
To round of my wool gear selections, I wanted to share two sports bras. While these are the most supportive for larger busts, they may work for some for running (hello me and other itty bitty members). Others may just enjoy wearing them for errands or around the home for comfort because they feel great.
Icebreaker Merino Sprite Racerback Bra
This sports bra offers the breathability Merino wool is known for with durability thanks to the nylon and elastane blended in. This is an ultralight fabric so it would be great for warmer temperatures.
While no bra cups are included, there is space for you to add them if you prefer more modesty. The bra comes in 4 colors and has excellent reviews.
- Style: Racerback
- Size: XS-XL
- Material: 83% Merino wool, 12% Nylon, 5% Elastane
- Price: $60
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
Smartwool Intraknit Crop Bra
A more supportive option, the Smartwool Intraknit Crop Bra has removable cups that provide shape and lift. It’s also a racerback and the crop provides a bit more torso coverage.
This bra is made with TENCEL Lyocell blended will Merino, which improves the dry time and feels cool and soft to the touch.
Again, this may be less a running bra for those with larger busts, but is still a great option for other lower impact activities from errands to yoga to strength training.
- Style: Racerback, crop
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 21% Merino wool, 20% Lyocell, 5% Polyester, 42% Nylon, 12% Elastane
- Price: $70
- Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
I also wanted to include a hat that offered a brim as they’re great for sun protection and to keep rain out of your eyes.
This cap is lined with Merino wool and polyester to ensure you stay cool and dry, and it also boasts reflective details, including around the edge of the brim, for low-light conditions. An added bonus is that it comes in three colors.
- Style: Baseball
- Size: One size
- Material: Lining is 54% Merino wool, 46% Polyester; Shell is 86% Polyester and 14% Elastane
- Price: $35
- Care: Spot clean only
Are There Varying Types of Wool?
According to Cozy Earth, there are several types of wool. The type depends on the animal it comes from. For example, different kinds of sheep produce different kinds of wool such as virgin, merino, and Shetland.
Goats produce cashmere and mohair. Other types come from alpacas, llamas, and muskox, for example.
Many of the different types can be used for clothing worn against the skin, while other types may be better for outer layers or products like rugs and upholstery.
Probably the wool you’re most familiar with is Merino wool. It comes from Merino sheep, which are often raised in Australia and New Zealand.
What to Look for in Wool Running Gear
There are a couple things to keep in mind when looking at wool running gear.
Blends
For example, as mentioned Merino wool is often blended with other fibers, usually synthetics like polyester and nylon. In addition to helping with durability, it reduces cost and the weight of the fabric. You can get 100% Merino wool products, but don’t shy away from the blends.
Weight
When looking at clothing items, pay attention to fabric weight and the style and fit of the items. Sometimes companies share the fabric weight as grams per square meter (GSM). This may be reported as a number like 150-gsm, which would be a lighter weight top, or described as lightweight, mid weight or heavyweight.
For reference, 200-gsm and above are mid to heavy weight fabrics.
In regards to style and fit, base layers should fit snug against the body. These should feel soft on the skin without needing additional layers underneath and may be warm enough to wear alone on warmer days.
Credit: https://www.runtothefinish.com/best-wool-running-apparel/
