As the summer approaches and the weather turns warmer, wool clothing is probably not something we’re rushing to stock up on. As it turns out, maybe we should be. Although scientists have tried to create the perfect fabric that will keep our bodies dry and cool — or warm — wool, a natural fiber, has been doing the job quite well for centuries. And wouldn’t you rather wear a natural fabric than a synthetic one anyway?
Wool is one of the most absorbent fibers and literally wicks moisture away from the body and releases it back into the air, which is why it is so great at keeping us super-warm in the winter. That same quality is also the reason it keeps us cool and dry in the summer. As a bonus, wool is often easy to clean because dirt sits on top of the fabric.
If your idea of fun isn’t going for your outdoor, summer run in a wool sweater, that’s no problem either. Several great companies have created women’s wool tops to keep you dry and comfortable no matter what the season.
I/O Bio Women’s Contact Top
While it might be rare to find a long-sleeve shirt with a sports bra built right in, the I/O Bio Women’s Contact Top makes that ideal a reality. Now, on a cold winter morning, you can throw on your pants, this top and be out the door — no sports bra required. Because it’s made from wool, this shirt ultra-efficient at keeping moisture away from the body.
You can buy the I/O Bio Women’s Contact Top at Amazon for $29.99.
Helly Hansen Women’s Ice Crew Top
If you love the idea of wool for its moisture-wicking abilities but can’t stand the thoughts of its texture against your skin, the Helly Hansen Women’s Ice Crew Top offers the perfect solution. While it is made of super fine merino wool, a layer of hollow core Lifa fibers lies underneath and is what actually touches your skin.
One Amazon reviewer wrote that the shirt kept her exceptionally dry and odor-free — even when she wore it for three days on a hiking trip — but cautioned to buy one size larger than you might normally wear.
This top is available at Amazon for $62.79.
Gordini Women’s Midweight 2-Layer Wool Long Sleeve Crew
If you’re looking for wool you can throw in the washer and dryer, look no further than the Gordini Women’s Midweight 2-Layer Wool Long Sleeve Crew. Like other wool tops, this crew is moisture wicking, but the Gordini is also anti-microbial to reduce bacteria and odor.
This shirt is available from Amazon for $10.50.
I/O Bio Women’s Contact Racer Tank With Shelf Bra
Those other tops are great cold-weather wear, but what about summer? The I/O Bio Women’s Contact Racer Tank With Shelf Bra offers the same moisture-wicking abilities of the other wool tops with the added bonus of the slim-fitting, lightweight construction of similar cotton exercise tops. A built-in bra is also a major plus, as is the fact that the top is made of the softest merino wool, so it feels great against your skin.
This shirt is available from Amazon in a variety of fun, summery colors for $49.99.
Icebreaker Women’s Bodyfit150 Ultralite Short Sleeve Atlas T-Shirt
For slightly more coverage but the same ability to keep you cool and dry, the Icebreaker Women’s Bodyfit150 Ultralite Short Sleeve Atlas T-Shirt is a great wool, summer pick. It is made from the finest, featherweight merino, making it lightweight, odor-resistant and perfect for warm conditions. Flat seams prevent chafing.
This active top is available from Amazon for $44.99.
Icebreaker Superfine 200 Rio Hooded Vines Shirt
For casual wear, traveling or any time you’re on the go, the Icebreaker Superfine 200 Rio Hooded Vines Shirt is the perfect choice to keep you cool, dry and comfortable. The wool fabric is wrinkle-resistant so you’ll still look great when you arrive. Plus, the hood adds a little something extra.
This shirt is available from Amazon for $109.95.
Icebreaker Women’s Tech T Lite Sunrise Shirt
From a run on the beach to a day at the gym, the Icebreaker Women’s Tech T Lite Surise Shirt will keep you comfortable with the softest possible merino wool against your skin.
This shirt is available from Amazon for $64.95
