At RYSY, we’ve tested both—and our answer might surprise you. While 100% merino wool has its perks, we believe blending merino with synthetics (like Cordura® and spandex) gives adventurers the best of both worlds. Here’s how the two stack up in breathability, odor resistance, durability, and sustainability—so you can choose the right fabric for your next adventure.
1. Breathability: Which Keeps You Cooler?
Merino Wool: The Natural Temperature Regulator
Merino wool is naturally breathable, thanks to its crimped fibers that create tiny air pockets. This allows it to:
✅ Wick moisture away from your skin.
✅ Regulate temperature—keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer.
✅ Prevent overheating by releasing heat when you’re active.
❌ Downside: When fully saturated (e.g., in heavy rain), merino can take longer to dry than synthetics.
Synthetics (Polyester/Nylon): Quick-Drying but Less Breathable
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are engineered to dry fast, but they:
✅ Repel water and dry quickly.
✅ Wick sweat efficiently in short bursts.
❌ Downside: They trap heat and odor because they don’t breathe as well as wool. Ever notice how a polyester shirt feels clammy after a long hike? That’s why.
Winner?
- For breathability: Merino wool (but blends like merino-Cordura-spandex dry faster).
- For quick drying: Synthetics (but expect less comfort).
2. Odor Resistance: Which Stays Fresher Longer?
Merino Wool: Naturally Odor-Resistant
Merino wool has antimicrobial properties that inhibit odor-causing bacteria. This means:
✅ You can wear it for days without washing (ideal for multi-day hikes).
✅ No synthetic stink—even after intense activity.
Synthetics: Prone to Holding Odors
Polyester and nylon absorb and trap odors because they don’t allow bacteria to escape. Result:
❌ Your shirt smells after just one wear.
❌ Requires frequent washing (which wears out the fabric faster).
Winner?
Merino wool—by a landslide. If you hate smelly gear, wool is the clear choice.
3. Durability: Which Lasts Longer?
Merino Wool: Soft but Fragile
While merino is luxuriously soft, its delicate fibers can:
❌ Pill or tear easily on rough terrain.
❌ Wear out quickly if not cared for properly.
Synthetics: Tough but Prone to Pilling
Polyester and nylon are more abrasion-resistant than merino, but:
✅ Hold up better against rocks and branches.
❌ Pill over time (those annoying little balls).
❌ Degrade with UV exposure (sunlight weakens synthetic fibers).
The Best of Both Worlds: RYSY’s Blend
At RYSY, we reinforce merino with Cordura® (a military-grade nylon) and spandex for: ✅ Abrasion resistance (no tears on the trail).
✅ Stretch and mobility (no restricted movement).
✅ Longer lifespan than 100% merino or synthetics alone.
Winner?
Blended fabrics (like RYSY’s merino-Cordura-spandex) outperform both 100% merino and pure synthetics.
4. Sustainability: Which Is Better for the Planet?
Merino Wool: Natural but Resource-Intensive
✅ Biodegradable (breaks down naturally).
✅ Renewable (sheep regrow wool annually).
❌ Downsides:
- High water and land use (sheep farming requires space).
- Methane emissions (sheep produce greenhouse gases).
Synthetics: Made from Plastic (Not Eco-Friendly)
❌ Derived from petroleum (a non-renewable resource).
❌ Sheds microplastics when washed (pollutes waterways).
❌ Not biodegradable (ends up in landfills for centuries).
The Ethical Choice: Responsibly Sourced Merino + Recycled Synthetics
At RYSY, we use:
✅ Mulesing-free merino (certified ethical farms).
✅ Blended with Cordura® (longer-lasting = less waste).
✅ Designed for longevity (so you buy less over time).
Winner?
Responsibly sourced merino blends (when paired with durable synthetics like Cordura®).
5. Comfort: Which Feels Better on the Trail?
Merino Wool: Luxuriously Soft (When High-Quality)
✅ No itch (unlike traditional wool).
✅ Lightweight and breathable.
❌ Downside: Lower-quality merino can feel scratchy or stiff.
Synthetics: Smooth but Can Feel "Plasticky"
✅ Soft and stretchy (when new). ❌ Downside: Can feel clammy and less natural against skin.
Winner?
High-quality merino (or a merino-synthetic blend for extra stretch).
Final Verdict: Which Fabric Wins for Outdoor Adventures
The Best Choice? A Smart Blend.
While 100% merino wool excels in breathability and odor resistance, and synthetics offer quick drying and durability, neither is perfect alone. That’s why RYSY’s merino-Cordura-spandex blend gives you:
✔ The softness and odor resistance of merino
✔ The toughness and quick-drying of Cordura®
✔ The stretch and mobility of spandex
Which Fabric Should You Choose?
- For casual hikes & everyday wear: 100% merino is luxurious and eco-friendly.
- For rugged adventures & long-term use: A blend like RYSY’s is the smartest investment.
Ready to Upgrade Your Outdoor Wardrobe?
Explore our merino-Cordura-spandex collection—designed for adventurers who refuse to compromise on performance, ethics, or durability.
💬 What’s your go-to outdoor fabric? Share your experiences in the comments!
