Outdoor clothing retailer, Patagonia, has recently introduced Merino Air Baselayer, the first-ever fusion of sustainably sourced wool and cutting-edge technology. To create Merino Air, Patagonia invested years of advanced R&D to refine three unique steps driven by Patagonia’s dual commitment to technical innovation and protecting the environment. “Merino Air offers outstanding warmth, more breathability and better fit than conventional merino baselayers, while still maintaining the natural odour-fighting properties of wool,” revealed the retailer’s press release. Merino Air top and bottom baselayers are available for both men and women and this fall, Patagonia is also launching a completely redesigned overall baselayer collection.
For this, the company sources merino wool directly from the grasslands of Patagonia using regenerative agricultural practices that actually reverse damage to the environment. The wool for each garment is then treated using an innovative airjet process that creates yarn of greater loft and insulation value than conventionally spun wool. Lastly, using a computerised knitting machine, the lofted wool and 100 per cent recycled polyester yarns are knit directly into a seamless performance fit garment with minimal waste. “The result is a perfect blend of technical product with best in-class performance and sustainable sourcing. Merino Air’s high-loft, efficient wool construction and excellent fit will keep you warm outdoors no matter what you are up to,” informs Jenna Johnson, Senior Director, Technical Outdoor at Patagonia.