The underwear we offer is not just simple athletic base layers. These are pieces designed for prolonged use in natural environments, where long-term comfort takes precedence over momentary performance. Merino wool offers unique properties: natural thermoregulation, odor resistance even after several days, quick drying, and softness against the skin. Our selection covers essential weights, from the lightest for summer outings to the thickest for extreme cold.
Understanding weights: Lite, 200, and 400
Weight (in g/m²) determines the thickness and insulating power of the fabric. The Lite range is the thinnest: ideal in summer or as a first layer under a shirt or sweater in mid-season. The 200 weight is the best versatile compromise: warm enough for autumn and spring, breathable enough to remain comfortable during activity. The 400 weight is reserved for cold conditions: winter bivouac, static camps, or sub-zero temperatures.
Tops: t-shirt, crewneck, or zip-neck?
The merino t-shirt serves as a summer base layer or an ultra-light under-layer. The crewneck (round neck) is the most versatile format: it can be worn alone in mid-season or under a jacket in cold weather. The zip-neck allows for quick ventilation by opening the zip during exertion, then closing it when stopped. This is the most adaptable format for daily temperature variations.
Bottoms: long johns and long underwear
Long johns protect the legs from cold and moisture. In the Lite version, they serve as a base layer under bushcraft trousers. In the 200 version, they provide additional insulation for cold conditions. In bivouac, they also double as excellent nightwear in the sleeping bag.
The merino vest: targeted torso insulation
The thick (400 weight) vest insulates the torso without restricting the arms. This is an often overlooked but very effective piece in bushcraft: it provides warmth during rest while allowing total freedom of movement for batoning or using an axe.
Our selection of bushcraft underwear
Pyrene Bushcraft offers a complete range of merino wool underwear: t-shirts, crewnecks, zip-necks, vests, and long johns in Lite, 200, and 400 weights. The entire range integrates into a layering system with our bushcraft clothing, from socks to headwear.
FAQ: Bushcraft Merino Wool Underwear
Why choose merino wool over synthetic?
Merino wool regulates temperature better, naturally resists odors for several days, and remains comfortable even when wet. Synthetic dries slightly faster but quickly accumulates odors, making it less suitable for multi-day outings.
What weight should I choose for an autumn bivouac?
The 200 weight is the most suitable. It offers a good balance between insulation and breathability. If nights are cold, combine a 200 crewneck with a 400 vest at the bivouac, and remove the vest when walking.
Can merino underwear be worn in summer?
Yes, it is even recommended in Lite weight. Fine merino wool wicks away sweat and regulates heat better than cotton. It also reduces friction under a loaded backpack.
How to care for merino wool underwear?
Machine wash at a maximum of 30°C with a wool-specific detergent. Avoid fabric softener and tumble drying. Dry flat. When out, simply air your underwear at night: merino wool partially "cleans" itself in the open air thanks to its antibacterial properties.
Should underwear be carried in a dry bag?
Absolutely. Spare underwear is one of the items to protect as a priority. A small dry bag of 5 to 10 liters is sufficient to keep a complete set dry, even in rain or on a canoe trip.