Everyone knows that wool is all the rage in outdoor performance apparel and it is really showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, with the introduction of new companies this year, such as Super.Natural, and a yet-to-be-released wool insulation program from Jansport co-founder Murray McCory, the innovations in wool just continue to improve. Of course, the originators such as SmartWool, Icebreaker and Ibex are also all constantly innovating to develop the most technical Merino wool fabrics for outdoor athletes.
For its Spring 2014 “Peak collection” Ibex Outdoor Clothing is introducing the new Weightless Wool — or W2 — it’s lightest weight wool fabric to date. It is perfect for outdoor sports in humid environments such as the Blue Ridge and coastal regions.
W2 is a lightweight, durable fabric built for running, hiking, climbing and riding with a foundation of wool and a bit of nylon for structure; and like other products in this category — it is temperature regulating, naturally odor resistant and breathable. This new fabric maintains the same performance benefits athletes have come to expect from Merino wool, knit from a new combination of 18.5 micron Merino wool and nylon. W2 is the lightest weight fabric that Ibex has ever made, weighing in at an impressive 145 g/m2.
W2 pieces for Spring ’14 include:
Men’s W2 Sport T: This Canadian-made technical tee boasts set-in sleeves and has a semi fit that allows you to flex and bend without compromising comfort. Available in Mountain Blue, Red Pop and Black. $75
Men’s W2 Sport Zip: This semi-fit, short sleeve tee as a 12-inch front center zip. Whether you want to zip-up for a bit more warmth, or whether you want the zip down for a bit more airflow, the locking pull on the zipper keeps the zip where you want it. Available in Mountain Blue, Black and Red Pop. Sewn in Canada. $89
Men’s W2 L/S Sport Zip: Perfect for those early morning jogs that start cool, and end warm, the semi-fit design of this long sleeve sport top was designed for athletic performance. Features include a 12-inch front locking zipper for maximum heat regulation. Available in Mountain Blue, Red Pop and Black. Sewn in Canada. $110
Women’s W2 Sport T: This no-frills, semi-fit, technical tee has raglan sleeves and flatlock seams that even the most demanding athlete will appreciate. At only 145 grams per square meter, you will not be weighed down no matter how hard you are working. Available in Green Chard, Moon Dust and Orange Pop. Sewn in Canada. $70
Women’s W2 Sprint L/S: This technical long-sleeve, semi-fit, half zip jersey that has a 12-inch front zipper with a locking pull. The raglan sleeves and on-seam thumbholes keep it in place. Available in Green Chard, Moon Dust and Orange Pop. Sewn in Canada. $100
Founded in 1997 and headquartered in White River Junction, Vermont, Ibex is a designer of year-round Merino wool outdoor clothing and cycling apparel, coupling this natural renewable resource with technical innovation and inspired design to create apparel for a diverse range of outdoor and active pursuits and passions.
Men’s and Women’s items are divided into Ride, Base, Zing, Peak and Live categories, and are made from the best Merino wool fabrics sustainably sourced from New Zealand, available online and through outdoor specialty stores.
