Merino Wool Base Layers: Why They Work in Summer Too

The Merino Core 160

The Henri-Lloyd Merino Core 160 T-Shirt is made from 100% virgin Merino wool in a lightweight 160gsm construction.

Designed to sit comfortably against the skin, it works both as a standalone T-shirt in warmer conditions and as the foundation of a layering system when conditions change.

Made in Europe and finished with a tonal Henri-Lloyd logo, its simplicity is deliberate. The performance comes from the fibre itself.

Merino Wool for Sailing

Few environments demonstrate the benefit of versatile clothing better than being on the water.

Summer sailing can mean warm conditions in direct sunlight followed quickly by stronger wind, cloud cover or cooler temperatures later in the day.

A lightweight merino wool base layer adapts well to those changes.

On warmer days it can be worn independently. As conditions deteriorate, it becomes the first layer beneath a midlayer or waterproof shell without requiring a complete change of clothing. The same principle applies beyond sailing.

A Natural Choice for Travel

Merino's combination of temperature regulation, moisture management and natural odour resistance also makes it particularly useful for travel.

A single lightweight Merino T-shirt can work across long journeys, warmer days and cooler evenings. Because it can often be worn repeatedly before washing, it also reduces the amount you need to carry.

For trips where space matters, versatility matters even more.

Merino Base Layer vs Synthetic Base Layer

Both Merino and synthetic fabrics have their place.

Synthetic base layers can be extremely lightweight and fast drying, making them well suited to high-output activity.

Merino offers a different balance.

Its strengths are natural temperature regulation, comfort against the skin and resistance to odour, particularly when a garment needs to be worn for extended periods or across changing conditions.

For sailing, travel and everyday outdoor use, that versatility makes Merino particularly effective.

More Than a Winter Layer

A merino wool base layer shouldn't disappear into the wardrobe when winter ends.

Choose a lightweight fabric and the same natural properties that make Merino effective in colder weather become valuable during summer too.

Breathable when it's warm. Comfortable as conditions change. Naturally resistant to odour.

The Merino Core 160 is built around exactly that idea: one lightweight layer designed to perform across more of the year.