The Savior of Winter in PNW: Thermowave’s Autumn/Winter Collection

“Made in EU by HAPPY PEOPLE.”

That’s what the tag on Thermowave’s apparel says and it makes sense. If you wanna see what UNHAPPY people look like, – get them cold and wet. And in the PNW, it’s not hard to achieve just that when you go camping, backpacking, hiking, or running because the weather is unpredictable. And everyone knows that a TRUE PNW adventure seeker is going outside no matter the weather, so we are grateful for companies like Thermowave.

We recently checked out a few items from their Autumn/Winter Collection.

Women’s Merino Xtreme Thermal Pants

Looks:

I’ve never really cared how my base layers look since they go under my clothes, but these are kinda cute with a fun little pattern on them. I received them in black but they also come in pink.

Function:

Per the website, this base layer is made for: “winter sports, mountaineering, hiking, camping, bushcraft, outdoors, traveling, running and training, cycling, work.” So basically, anything. The Merino Xtreme base layer has a rating of a 220 GSM, which is in the mid- range for cold conditions. (For reference, a 160 GSM is on one end of the spectrum for less cold weather and the 330 GSM is on the other for the ultimate in cold weather gear.)

“Happy sheep don’t itch” is proudly displayed on the box and that’s the true beauty of Merino Wool. Gone are the days where you associated anything with the word “wool” in the title as something likely to give you a rash. And if you know anything about merino wool, you already know these have built-in natural anti-bacterial protection, they don’t stink, and they are very breathable.

Construction & Fit:

The fabric on these pants is dual layered with the highest warmth to weight ratio. That means these are toasty without feeling heavy. The outside is a durable merino wool blend and the inside is made of functional polyester that dries quickly when you get sweaty.

The very definition of base layer is “next to skin” when it comes to staying warm. Therefore, these Xtreme Thermals are meant to be form fitting. Despite this, the elastic waistband is wide and comfortable, and there’s a gusset ending right above the knee for extra “bendability.” Flatlock seams will prevent chafing and keep you itch-free. To top it off, the pants are surprisingly soft.

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Men’s Merino Xtreme Thermal Turtleneck 1/2 Zip

The Thermowave Merino Xtreme 1/2 Zip base layer boasts a sleek and functional design suitable for various cold-weather activities. In terms of appearance, the base layer has a modern and athletic look, with attention to detail evident in features like the YKK 1/2 zip neck collar and thumb loops for added functionality.

As far as sizing goes, it all depends on how you plan to wear this. If planning to wear it as a standalone piece, going up a size may be preferable for those seeking a roomier fit, while staying true to size is recommended for individuals intending to use it as a layering garment.

When it comes to function and technology, Thermowave’s Merino Xtreme impresses with its 220 GSM Merino blend, offering a well-balanced combination of Merino wool and Polyester. The dual-layer fabric provides excellent insulation, durability, and breathability, making it an ideal choice for chilly running – but also other winter activities like hiking or other snow sports in cold conditions.

The design incorporates functional Polyester on the inside for optimal moisture management, while the outer layer, a Merino wool/polyamide blend, ensures supreme insulating properties and natural anti-bacterial protection. Notably, the base layer is not only super soft but also itch-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.

This is a really solid item that has legitimately gotten me out on the roads multiple times when I would have historically just thrown in the towel.

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Overall/For Consideration:

The bottom line is, you don’t want to let the weather get in the way of doing what you love. If you love to get outside, Thermowave is going to help make it happen. Merino wool will dry quickly, wick away moisture when you’re wet or sweaty, and it doesn’t stink or itch. The construction of this product has no seams that will create hot spots, so you’re ready to go and to keep going.