The short answer I believe is ….. yes. There have been some major breakthroughs in mountain clothing for me. “Paramo” material broke the mold of the crinkly unbreatheable and expensive GoreTex. “Windstopper” fabic provided a material that could be worn in very diverse and differing circumstances. Now we have “Icebreaker“. According to the manufacturer:
Icebreaker was born from humble beginnings in New Zealand 8 years ago. Since then they’ve become a global, multi million pound brand, supplying an ever increasing range of Merino Wool garments. With sustainability at the core of everything they do, Icebreaker garments work hard to move moisture away from your skin, keeping you cool in the heat of the day and insulating you from the cold when the temperature drops. Every Icebreaker is born outdoors and lives to get back out there.
The above blurb is what most outdoor manufacturers tend to say. In this case however our findings back up those of the producers. These garments are warm, comfortable and an added benefit if you are on a week long trip, you don’t smell like the sheep that they have come from!
Seriously, this is good gear. We have tried and tested this stuff in the Sierra Nevada over the past year and we wouldn’t now go up into the mountains without it. Sure, it is expensive, but comfort and long lasting, workable garments are hard to come by these days.
We can highly recommend Icebreaker outdoor clothing to all. Here is a selection of some of the gear we have fully tested:
Altitude Zip
The Altitude Zip’s versatile three way collar (wear it zipped up, zipped down or zipped up and folded over) and top ventilation qualities make it a great choice of action top when you’re planning a peak performance at extreme altitudes.
- Fits close to the body
- No shoulder or back seams, to improve comfort and fit
- High (9.5cm) zip collar can be worn three ways
- Underarm gusset in contrasting colour
Olympia Zip
This attention-grabbing top features a versatile three way zip collar (up, down, or up and folded over), as well as speedy-looking sleeve and side seam stripes. Fits close to the body, and follows your every movement.
* Drop tail.
Mountaineer X-Heavy Mid Calf
These socks will keep your feet warm even when wet. Extra heavy cushioning zones provide maximum protection, warmth and comfort.
* Mid calf mountaineering sock
* Extra heavy cushioning
* Keeps feet warm when wet
Heartily agree. I became an Icebreaker convert after picking some up cheap in a sale at Tiso. It’s great. And can I also say they make great wicking undies, which are fab for the days when thermals aren’t required!