Merino Wool Workout Gear

Merino Wool Workout Gear: My Journey to Natural Fibers

For years, I struggled with one particular frustration: my workout clothes smelled bad. No matter how many times I washed them—or what tricks I tried—the odor lingered. Even fresh out of the washing machine, they carried a funk I couldn’t shake. And because I wasn’t willing to resort to harsh laundry products with questionable ingredients, I found myself at a crossroads.

At the same time, I’d already been thinking about shifting my wardrobe away from synthetics and toward natural fibers like linen, organic cotton, and merino wool. I started with the layers closest to my skin—bras and underwear—and quickly realized how much better natural fibers felt. (You can read more about my favorite wool bra and underwear in this post.) But it was my stinky workout gear that really pushed me to make the leap.

When I discovered that merino wool workout gear could solve my odor problem and give me healthier, more breathable options, I knew I’d found the answer. That was several years ago, and since then my natural fiber collection has grown to include a range of workout gear. I’m not at 100% natural fibers yet, but every step toward healthier clothing is a step in the right direction.

Why Merino Wool for Workout Gear?

Merino wool is a game-changer for activewear. Here’s why I love it:

• Nontoxic & better for health – No synthetic chemicals against my skin.
• Breathable – Keeps me comfortable during workouts.
• Temperature regulating – Warm in winter, cool in summer.
• Odor resistant – I can wear pieces for a week or more before washing.
• Durable – Holds up beautifully over time.
• Moisture wicking & quick dry – Perfect for sweaty workouts or damp weather.
• Fewer washings needed – Unlike synthetics, which demanded a wash after every use.
• Eco-friendly & better for the environment – Merino is a renewable, biodegradable fiber that reduces reliance on plastics and microfibers.

That odor resistance alone has been life-changing. Gone are the days of funky-smelling synthetics that never felt truly clean.

Comfort: Merino Wool Isn’t Itchy

If you’ve ever worn traditional wool, you might expect itchiness. Merino is different. Its fibers are finer and smoother, making it soft and comfortable against the skin.

A few of my pieces aren’t 100% merino, but I always look for the highest merino count possible. Keep in mind that higher merino content often means less structure in the garment. Thankfully, textile technologies are improving all the time, and I’m hopeful that clothing makers will continue to refine merino wool workout gear with better structure and support.

My Favorite Merino Workout Pieces

Here’s what’s in my current collection, each one carefully chosen to meet my workout needs.  It’s like a merino workout capsule wardrobe!  Each piece can be mixed, matched, or layered according to the season or purpose.  

Note: Don’t be discouraged if some items are out of stock or discontinued.  These items can be seasonal in their availability, and the styles tend to change from year to year.  This list should at least point you in the right direction to good brands, styles, and features.  I’ve also included alternate options where possible.

• Pocket Bike Shorts – My go-to for summer morning walks. I have size small in black.  Save $20 on your $50 order as a first-time customer.
• Pocket 3/4 Leggings – Perfect for transitional weather and outdoor exercise. I have size small in black.
• Pocket Leggings – My winter staple for morning walks.  I have size small in black. Use code ROOTS15 for 15% off. 
• Compression Leggings – From the maker of my favorite merino bra and underwear. I wear these as a base layer under my pocket leggings when it’s super cold. Also fantastic as everyday leggings. I have size small in black.
• T-Shirts – Breathable and versatile.  I’ve tried a few, and I’m linking to my top pick here.  I have size small in black.
• Tank Tops – Great for layering or summer workouts. I have size small in black and charcoal. Use code ROOTS15 for 15% off.
• Full Zip Hoodie – Cozy and practical. I have size small in olive green. Currently unavailable but the men’s MerinoAire hoodie is similar.  This brand also carries several options for women.
• Pro-Knit Cowl Neck Tunic – Stylish warmth for chilly walks, this tunic keeps my neck warm in blustery weather.  I have size small in black. Currently unavailable but the Hoodie Dress and Snorkel Hoodie are similar. Use code ROOTS15 for 15% off.  
• No-Show Socks – My summer sock staple.
• Hiking Socks – Durable and warm for winter.
• Bralette – My very first merino purchase, worn as a sports bra. Save $20 on your $50 order as a first-time customer.  I have size medium in black.
• Racerback Sports Bra – I just ordered this one (black, size medium) and will be sure to provide an update after testing it out.  However, it’s currently rated 4.67 out of 5 stars, based on 398 reviews.  

And because underwear is part of my workout gear too:

• Essential Hipster – My all-time favorite merino underwear.  I wear these every day: normal days, active days, sleeping, working out, with formalwear, and so on.  They are my all-purpose, healthy underwear.  I wear size small and have built up a stash of black and light nude.
• High Waisted Bikini Brief – So comfy!  These are less structured than my favorite pair (listed above) which gives them a “barely there” feeling.  They are perfect for sleeping, lounging, or anytime you want to forget you’re wearing underwear.  And you can’t beat 95% merino!  I have size small in charcoal and tannin.

I’ve already shared more about my favorite everyday merino bra and underwear, but they deserve another mention here.

Layering for Winter Walks

When I head out for my morning walk in the cold, I layer a heavy cotton hoodie over my cowl neck tunic, sometimes adding a fleece vest I’ve owned for over 20 years. Neither piece is organic, and the vest is synthetic, but I never wear them directly against my skin. Eventually, I’d love to add a merino vest and hoodie to my collection—I’ve got my eye on a few options!

Investment & Longevity

Merino clothing does require more of an upfront investment than synthetics, but here’s the thing: because merino requires far fewer washings, I’ve been able to meet all my workout needs with just a few key pieces.

For several years, my collection of one of each bottom and heavy layer has been more than enough. I do own multiple tanks and tees, but only one pair each of bike shorts, capris, and pocket leggings. I also have one hoodie and one cowl neck tunic. Plus, Woolly’s discontinued active tank doubles as a backup sports bra.

This streamlined collection has carried me through daily walks and workouts for years.

Caring for Merino

Merino wool is easy to care for:

• Machine wash cold on gentle.
• Always hang to dry.
• Never put merino in the dryer.

With proper care, merino pieces last for years, making them a sustainable and worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

Switching to merino wool workout gear has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my health, comfort, and homestead lifestyle. No more funky odors, no more synthetic fabrics against my skin—just breathable, durable, eco-friendly fibers that support my daily rhythms.

Every piece I add to my collection brings me closer to a wardrobe that reflects my values: simple, sustainable, and practical. And every morning walk feels just a little fresher because of it.