10 Best Merino Wool Underwear for Men & Women

As the temperature begins to drop, it’s only natural to look for clothing that will keep you warm. One of the first places to start should be your undergarments.

After all, they lay the foundation for a warm, comfy outfit. But the problem with underwear made out of cotton and synthetic fabric is that it isn’t great at retaining heat.

So if you like to enjoy the great outdoors in the winter and go hiking, skiing, or camping you won’t feel as warm and cozy as you would prefer. Then there’s the sweat factor.

While working or playing outside, you’re likely to perspire. If you’re rocking cotton drawers this will be a problem.

Cotton is very absorbent fabric so it will take a while for it to dry. Fortunately, there’s a great solution to these issues.

Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking so it will pull sweat away from your body. Since it doesn't hold onto moisture your undies can dry quickly so you can avoid that awkward clammy feeling.

Plus, it’s odor-resistant—something you’ll appreciate on long hikes. You’ll also like that it’s super soft and non-irritating.

There are a lot of great wool underwear options to pick from. But there are plenty of bad ones as well. 

Want to save time and take away the guesswork of finding the perfect pair of wool undies? This guide lists the best wool underwear so you can feel warm, comfy, and fresh all year long.

Top 10 Best Wool Underwear

1. Ridge Merino Wool Women's Ridge Boy Short

Flatlock seams: Ridge Merino’s wool boy short will do the job of keeping your fanny warm, and it’s thin enough to layer under running tights.

This panty’s natural fibers wick moisture away from your skin to prevent clamminess. Also, it fits as expected and doesn't creep up.

But, this undy may have a strong chemical smell. Keep it from stinking up your closet by soaking it overnight in water and baking soda.

2. Icebreaker Women's Siren Merino Wool Bikini

Natural fabric: Icebreaker’s bikini is crafted of 83% merino wool. It also features jersey corespun fabric and nylon fibers for added strength, durability, and softness. So it doesn’t itch and it holds up well.

Another perk is that it wicks moisture without leaving you feeling clammy as it dries. Although it keeps you warm, it won’t make you feel hot.

The downside is that it rests high on the hips. Pair this panty with high waisted bottoms and it won’t be a problem.

3. Woolly Women's Merino Wool Hipster Bikini

Ultra-lightweight: This moisture-wicking, wool hipster by Woolly has some pretty amazing features such as flatlock seams and soft elastic. Plus, it is fire and odor resistant.

It’s super soft and comfy. This is the kind of breathable panty you can wear while backpacking and not worry about it smelling.

You’ll also appreciate that it fits true to size and stays put all day. But it does have tags. Remove them for a more comfortable fit if they bother you.

4. Ecoable Women’s Moisture Wicking Merino Brief

Sensitive skin-friendly: Ecoable produced a comfy brief that offers full-coverage in the rear. Your tush will be a fan of the mulberry silk that has been added to the brief for increased softness.

This brief is comfortable enough to wear all day. Another benefit is that it doesn’t ride up or move around. It’s quick-drying so you’ll feel fresh and dry in these undies even on the hottest, most humid days.

The great thing about merino wool is that it naturally regulates body temperature, so you won’t overheat or wake up cold.

On the other hand, the material isn’t stretchy. If you need more stretch, take the underwear and tug at the sides to loosen the fit.

5. Icebreaker Women’s Siren Merino Wool Thong

Low profile elastic waist: This wool thong is thin and lightweight. Yet, it’s extremely durable. This stretchy, breathable beauty is perfect for backpacking.

It keeps you cool when it’s hot outside and when it heats up it keeps you warm. Regardless of the temp, you’ll stay dry and fresh.

Plus, you won’t have to deal with unflattering panty lines. Even if you have a pleasantly plump bottom, this panty will stay in place. Forget about wedgies.

However, the seems may not hold up well over time. So wash it in a laundry bag for delicates on the gentle cycle and let it air dry.

6. Meriwool Men’s Merino Wool Boxer Briefs

Super soft: Meriwool’s boxer briefs are constructed with 100% all-natural ultrafine 17.5-micron merino wool. The material feels silky-smooth against your skin.

It fits snuggly and provides gentle support, breathability, and odor-resistant properties. Natural moisture-wicking fibers keep you dry and comfortable while active in cold weather.

This quick-drying underwear features a loop for hang drying when out camping, hiking, or hunting.

On the other hand, the fabric is thin which can lead to holes and the waistband pulling apart. If you want to make these briefs last longer, it’s best to hand wash them.

7. Icebreaker Men's Anatomica Briefs

Chafe-free: Icebreaker’s wool briefs are made of material that’s the right thickness. The fit is wonderful.

This brief doesn’t bunch or ride up. It helps keep your package in the position it’s meant to be in.

Another perk is that it’s durable. Take care of it and it will last. Hand wash it with detergent and let it hang dry. It will hold up well.

You won’t have to struggle with holes, stretching, or shrinking. On the other hand, it runs small. Go up a size to prevent fit issues.

8. Woolly Men's Merino Wool Boxer Brief

Itch-free: This breathable boxer brief by Woolly offers a great fit. It’s very comfortable.

The merino will keep you smelling fresh even after days of hard work sweating and climbing mountains. Cotton undies would be pretty nasty by then.

But not this bad boy. You could go hiking 15 miles without worrying about chafing or funky fumes filling your nostrils. 

The downside is that it doesn’t retain heat as well as other brands. But as long as you wear it underneath thick layers you may not notice it.

9. Smartwool Men's Merino Sport 150 Boxer Brief

Slim fit: This moisture-wicking boxer brief comes with anti-microbial properties and a super comfy fit. This undy may end up being the most comfortable pair of drawers to grace your bottom yet.

Plus, it leaves no odor or sweat behind and is easy to wash. Another delightful perk is that it never causes any chafing. But, the waistband may loosen after a few washes.

Prevent this from happening by either hand washing your underwear or placing it in a laundry bag for delicates. Wash it in cold water on the gentle cycle and let it air dry.

10. Ridge Merino Men's Ridge Boxer Brief

Moisture management: Ridge’s boxer brief is soft, comfortable, and stretchy. It offers good package support and doesn't ride up or roll.

High wool content (84%) makes it very resistant to hiking and traveling funk. Also, it’s thin enough so that you don't get too hot in warmer temps.

On the other hand, the fabric isn’t durable. You may need to buy a backup pair.

Best Wool Underwear Buying Guide

Want to dodge money-wasting undies? To put your undergarment game in high gear, you need to figure out the qualities that will make or break your underwear experience.

Below are the key features you should look for when choosing the best wool underwear.

Best Quality Wool Underwear

The fabric should feel soft against your skin. The best wool underwear will be blended with a fiber that enhances its softness and durability such as silk or nylon.

Choose drawers that are smooth, itch-free, and sensitive skin-friendly.

Best Anti-Chafing Wool Underwear

Most Comfortable Wool Underwear

Underwear that you sport all day should feel good. It has to fit well and keep you feeling fresh. Opt for moisture-wicking drawers that feel silky-smooth and offer gentle support and breathability.