At RYSY, we don’t use 100% merino in our clothing. Instead, we blend it with Cordura® and spandex to create gear that’s tougher, stretchier, and more versatile. Here’s why—and what you should consider before buying a 100% merino shirt.
The 5 Biggest Downsides of 100% Merino Wool Shirts
1. Poor Durability: It Wears Out Fast
Merino wool is soft and comfortable, but its natural fibers break down quickly under abrasion. If you’re hiking through brush, climbing rocks, or wearing a backpack, 100% merino shirts can pill, snag, or even tear after just a few adventures.
❌ Problem: Thin merino fabric doesn’t hold up to rough use.
✅ RYSY’s Solution: We reinforce high-wear areas with Cordura®, a military-grade nylon that resists tears and abrasions—so your shirt lasts years, not months.
2. Slow Drying Time
Merino wool absorbs moisture (up to 30% of its weight without feeling wet), which is great for temperature regulation—but not ideal when you’re soaked. Unlike synthetics, 100% merino takes longer to dry, which can leave you cold and clammy in wet conditions.
❌ Problem: After rain or intense sweat, merino stays damp longer than synthetic blends.
✅ RYSY’s Solution: Our merino-Cordura-spandex blend dries faster thanks to Cordura’s moisture-wicking properties, keeping you comfortable even in damp conditions.
3. Limited Stretch = Restricted Movement
Pure merino wool has little to no stretch, which can feel stiff and restrictive during activities like climbing, scrambling, or even layering. If you’re used to athleisure or performance fabrics, 100% merino can feel uncomfortably rigid.
❌ Problem: No stretch = less mobility and potential chafing.
✅ RYSY’s Solution: We add 5–10% spandex for 4-way stretch, so your shirt moves with you—not against you.
4. Higher Maintenance (Shrinking & Care)
Merino wool requires gentle care—wash it in cold water, avoid harsh detergents, and never tumble dry (or it’ll shrink!). For travelers or minimalists, this extra maintenance can be a hassle.
❌ Problem: High-risk of shrinking or felting if washed improperly.
✅ RYSY’s Solution: Our blended fabric is more forgiving—machine-washable (gentle cycle) and resists shrinking better than 100% merino.
5. Cost vs. Performance Trade-Off
High-quality 100% merino shirts are expensive (often €80–€150+) but their lack of durability means you’ll replace them sooner. For the price, many adventurers expect longer-lasting performance.
❌ Problem: You’re paying a premium for a shirt that won’t last as long as a reinforced blend.
✅ RYSY’s Solution: Our merino-Cordura-spandex blend costs slightly more upfront but outlasts 100% merino, saving you money in the long run.
Why RYSY Uses a Merino-Cordura-Spandex Blend Instead
We love merino wool—but we refuse to compromise on durability, stretch, or practicality. That’s why we engineered a smarter fabric blend:
Where Our Blend Excels:
🏔 Hiking & Backpacking – Resists snags from packs and branches.
🚵 Climbing & Scrambling – Stretches for full range of motion.
⛺ Travel & Everyday Wear – Wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, and odor-free.
When Should You Choose 100% Merino?
While we don’t use 100% merino, it can be a good choice for:
✔ Low-impact activities (e.g., casual wear, light hiking).
✔ Base layers (if you’re layering over it for protection).
✔ Budget picks (if you prioritize softness over longevity).
But for serious adventurers, a blended fabric is the smarter investment.
Final Verdict: The Best of All Worlds
At RYSY, we don’t believe in compromises. That’s why our merino-Cordura-spandex blend gives you:
✅ The softness and odor resistance of merino
✅ The durability and quick-drying of Cordura®
✅ The stretch and mobility of spandex
No itching. No tearing. No regrets.
Ready to Upgrade Your Outdoor Wardrobe?
Explore our merino-Cordura-spandex collection—designed for adventurers who demand performance, ethics, and durability.
💬 What’s your biggest frustration with 100% merino shirts?
Share in the comments—we’d love to hear your experiences!
