Last Updated on March 18, 2024
Let me say this one time, and one time only: you must get yourself a Merino wool hoodie. They are soft, warm, and comfortable. It’s like being wrapped in a fresh cloud of happiness.
But you probably already knew that, right?
So, let’s not waste any more time; it’s the twelve best Merino wool hoodies for men!
Disclosure: Merino Wool Gear DOES NOT sponsor products in order to maintain genuineness and authenticity. However, as an affiliate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases
Quick Hoodie Buying Criteria – The Three F’s
Before I get into the top men’s Merino wool hoodies, I feel it’s essential to go through my quick buying criteria. Moreover, many of these Merino wool hoodies vary in design, style, and general use. Therefore, I’ve developed a simple way to analyze each hoodie with the Three F’s: Fit, Fabric, & Features.
Fit
Not all Merino wool hoodies are constructed the same. Some have more of a tighter athletic fit made for layering activities. Others tend to have draped construction for an outer layer or standalone garment. How you want to use your hoodie (e.g., travel, hiking, every day, etc.) should determine how it should fit. That, and personal preference, of course.
However, not all companies classify their fit and construction the same way. For example, a Smartwool hoodie may be snugger than a Minus33 hoodie, despite both being labeled “regular fit.” Therefore, we’ve classified each hoodie’s fit based on our own four criteria: athletic, slim, regular, and relaxed. Look at the guide below to better understand how each fit classification may look on your body.
Fabric
While all the hoodies we reviewed are constructed with some form of Merino wool, it’s important to note that not all Merino is the same. There are three key factors to look out for with these Merino wool hoodies: wool percentage, fiber diameter, and fabric thickness.
Wool Percentage
Typically, the higher the percentage of Merino wool, the softer and more odor-resistant the material. However, this sometimes comes at the cost of durability as Merino is more delicate than synthetic material.
So, if you’re planning to use your hoodie in activities where snagging and rubbing could be an issue, look for material blended with synthetics. A pure Merino hoodie should do the trick for low-impact activities like commuting or traveling.
Fiber Diameter
Typically denoted in microns, the fiber diameter is directly related to the softness of the material. The lower the microns, the better it will feel on your skin. However, the softer fibers can again come at the cost of long-term durability. They may be a bit more expensive (but not always).
Most Merino wool hoodies have a fiber diameter between 16.5 and 21.5 microns. You may feel initial itchiness on the higher end when throwing on your hoodie for the first time. But, it should go away after a few minutes. Also, not every brand advertises the micron level, so it’s sometimes difficult to gauge the fiber diameter of every product.
Fabric Thickness
The final fabric factor to consider is the overall thickness (denoted in grams per square meter or GSM). For your reference, a typical piece of printer paper is ~80 GSM thick. So, as most midweight Merino hoodies are about ~250 GSM, the material is about as thick as three pieces of paper.
As you can imagine, the thicker materials tend to be warmer. But they may not be as breathable as thinner alternatives, leading to potential moisture management issues. We’ve classified each Merino wool hoodie into four thickness categories so you can better understand how each one will perform for you.
| Classification | Typical Thickness (GSM) | Sedentary Temp. Range (F) | Active Temp. Range (F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultralight | < 180 | 65 – 90 | 55 – 75 |
| Lightweight | 180 – 220 | 55 – 70 | 40 – 60 |
| Midweight | 220 – 265 | 40 – 60 | 25 – 50 |
| Heavyweight | > 265 | < 40 | < 25 |
For more about the unique properties of Merino wool as a fabric, see our Benefits & Science Guide!
Features
Some people choose their clothing based on performance features, primarily if they use them for specific activities. If you are one of these people, keep an eye out for several key elements when choosing a Merino wool hoodie.
- Hood fit (under-helmet, draped, etc.)
- Zipper closure & length
- Seam construction
- Number of pockets
- Pocket location
- Pocket lining
- Sleeve length & tightness
- Hem length
- Thumb holes
- Cuffs & ribbing
- Integrated face mask
- Reinforcements & Padding
Note: Don’t worry if you see a Merino hoodie that you like but doesn’t have all your desired features. Many brands tend to release variations of their Merino wool gear, so peruse their site for more options. Also, if you don’t find what you are looking for, reach out, and I’d be happy to point you in the right direction.
Best Overall Men’s Merino Wool Hoodie
Minus33 Kodiak Men’s Expedition Hoodie
100% Merino wool | 400 g/m2 | 18.5 micron | Regular fit
Pros: Brushed fleece interior | Warm but breathable | 3-pocket design for daily use
Cons: Tricky zipper | Expensive | User-reported sizing issues
Usually, you may see brands like Icebreaker or Smartwool topping a Merino wool hoodie list. But I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t place the Minus33 Kodiak Expedition Hoodie in the top spot. And for two simple reasons: warmth and comfort. That’s what you are looking for in a hoodie, right?
So, regarding warmth, I would venture to say that this Minus33 hoodie is the warmest on our list. Not only is the 400-gsm heavyweight fabric excellent at regulating your temperature, but there are also minor features that help. Inside the zipper (which can be tricky sometimes), there is a storm flap to reduce heat loss. Heck, it’s so warm that Minus33 notes it’s been tested in both the Arctic and Antarctic.
However, warmth is nothing without comfort, especially if this is your go-to hoodie for daily wear. Luckily, the enhanced comfort features of the Minus33 Expedition zip-up are top-notch. The hood drapes well, the seams are flat-locked, and there is even a brushed-fleece interior, so it feels soft against your skin.
To sum up, I could go on and on about how much I love this Minus33 Merino wool Expedition Kodiak hoodie. On the other hand, I know you don’t have all the time in the world, and we still have eleven more sweatshirts to review. So, if you like what you see, check it out below or continue reading for the rest of my favorite men’s Merino wool hoodies!
Best Merino Wool Hoodie For Travel
Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie
97% Merino, 3% Elastane | 250 g/m2 | 21.5 micron | Slim fit
Pros: Simple minimalist design | Superior fabric quality | Added stretch improves performance
Cons: The hood is a bit floppy | Sizing runs small | Pricey
I have a confession: I’m a snobby ultralight traveler. I cruise right through the airports as others struggle with their mountains of bags. No matter where and how long I travel, I only pack one bag. However, packing light means my wardrobe needs to be versatile, packable, and suitable for various climates. And that, my friends, is where the Unbound Merino Compact Hoodie shines.
So, what makes this Unbound Merino hoodie awesome for living the carry-on life? Well, for one, versatility is at the forefront of its construction. It’s minimalist and straightforward with no flashy logos. Even the pockets are seamless, contributing to a timeless, classic style.
Unlike the rest of the Merino wool hoodies, Unbound Merino has added a small percentage of elastane within the fabric. This adds a bit of stretch and added durability for more adventurous travelers. Moreover, the 250 gsm midweight Merino wool offers a best-in-class warmth-to-weight ratio. Therefore, it won’t take up as much space in your travel bag but still give you the necessary warmth for chillier destinations. Oh yeah, and it’s wrinkle-proof. Almost forgot to mention that last one.
Although, I would love if Unbound Merino to use finer fibers than 21.5-micron. Some users have experienced initial itchiness, but it tends to fade after the first wear.
Anyways, if you’re looking for an all-around, versatile Merino wool hoodie to explore the world, look no further than this Compact Hoodie from Unbound Merino. Grab one before your next trip!
Best Merino Wool Hoodie For Work
75% Merino, 22 % Nylon, & 3% spandex | 235 g/m2 | 17.5 micron | Slim fit
Wool & Prince French Terry Zip Hoodie
Pros: Plush interior, sleek exterior | Versatile layering | High-quality materials & hardware
Cons: Fit not suitable for all | Only 2 colors | Style may be too casual for some offices
I’m a thermosensitive guy, always chasing the optimal temperature to free up some mental capacity in this crazy brain of mine. I typically set the home thermostat slightly above room temperature for improved productivity. Yet whenever I go into the office (a few days a week), I get so cold that I can’t focus. I become perpetually uncomfortable. While any Merino wool hoodie would help me warm up in this situation, most are too sloppy-looking for a professional workplace. However, one hoodie has a sleek, business-casual style that cures my thermosensitivity: the Wool & Prince French Terry Zip Hoodie.
This full-zip hoodie is simple yet sophisticated. It does not have flashy logos or gaudy features. Instead, Wool & Prince relies on the French Terry knitting technique to create a sleek, almost sheened outer fabric. In contrast, the looped interior creates a soft, plush, next-to-skin environment. In simpler terms, this hoodie is comfortable inside but professional outside.
Still, while I dig the hoodie’s polished look, it gives me a few “tech bro” vibes. That’s not necessarily bad (especially if you’re a true tech bro), but it might not be your look. Moreover, if your office is more on the ‘business’ side of ‘business casual, ‘ I’d drop the hoodie altogether and wear a Merino wool sweater instead.
Overall, the Wool & Prince French Terry Full Zip is the best hoodie for working in (and commuting to) the office. It’s comfy and dapper. The only downside is that you’ll look a little like Zuck. But who cares? You’ll look—and feel—good. Head over to Wool & Prince below to see this hoodie for yourself!
Best Merino Wool Hoodie For Working Out
Smartwool Merino Cotton Logo Hoodie
51% Cotton, 47% Merino, & 2% Elastane | Midweight | Regular fit
Pros: Industry-leading comfort features | Crossover hood design | Over a dozen colors
Cons: Logo | Unisex fit | Expensive for a simple pullover
It may sound absurd to wear a hoodie to work out. But that’s because most sports hoodies are packed with synthetic materials marketed as breathable and moisture-wicking, but they actually make you feel like you’re wearing a plastic bag. On the flip side, hoodies with all-natural materials, like this Smartwool Merino Cotton Logo Hoodie, are airy and soft while maintaining your internal body temperature no matter the outside atmosphere.
At first glance, it looks like a basic pullover hoodie. However, Smartwool incorporates subtle features like comfy stay-put cuffs, a crossover two-piece hood, and a classic kangaroo pouch that add to the style and contribute to the hoodie’s functionality. You’ll get better blood flow and range of motion during workouts to maximize your gains.
The only major issue I have with this hoodie is the logo. I’m just not a logo guy; I don’t like being a walking billboard. Although since most gym apparel today is branded, I don’t blame Smartwool for designing their hoodie this way. Fortunately, there are over a dozen color options, many of which the logo blends into the fabric color, so it’s not as obvious. Still, if you’re looking for a clean, brand-free look, you may want to search for a different option.
However, if you’re serious about leveling up your fitness – whether jogging through the chilly months or getting to ‘the pump‘ more efficiently – you’ve got to check out this Smartwool hoodie below.
Best Merino Wool Hoodie For Hiking
Ibex Men’s Indie Hoodie
100% Merino wool | 185 g/m2 | 18.5 micron | Slim fit
Pros: Prime outdoor comfort | Fantastic thermoregulation | Scuba-style hood
Cons: Not great for sub-zero conditions | Finicky zipper | Expensive for weight
When I think of Merino wool gear from Ibex, I immediately think of technical outdoor clothing. They always design their apparel for functionality, protection, and comfort. And even though this Ibex Indie Hoodie doesn’t look like much, it’s one of the highest-performing outdoor hoodies on our list.
Let’s start with the 100% Merino wool fabric. It is soft and comfortable, and the 185 gsm thickness provides enough warmth down to freezing temperatures. Moreover, the design is slim-fitting but relaxed enough to move with you. Therefore, you won’t have anything to worry about if you’re out on the trail.
Now, on to the features. At first glance, you may think this is just a basic outdoor hoodie. Nothing fancy, right? Well, Ibex has engineered unique features into its apparel. The raglan seams improve mobility and reduce backpack-strap chafing. There are thumbholes for layering, too. Moreover, there is even a slim-fit hood that can slide under a climbing helmet.
In other words, there are more engineered performance features than meets the eye.
So, you’ve probably already guessed that I’m a big fanboy of Ibex. However, I wouldn’t steer you in the wrong direction here. The Ibex Indie Hoodie is the real deal for outdoor lovers, so add one to your gear closet today.
Best Merino Wool Hoodie For Hunting
KUIU ULTRA Merino 145 Zip-T Hunting Hoodie
90% Merino wool & 10% Nylon (body) | 145 g/m2 | 18.5 micron | Athletic fit
Pros: Jam-packed with techincal features | High-quality Nuyarn® technology | Ultralight & breathable
Cons: Thicker options available | Inconsistent fit | User-reported durability issues
If you’re a hunter, you understand the importance of protection from the elements, and KUIU knows this, too. So, they created one of the most technical, comfortable hunting hoodies for anyone looking to take home a trophy buck (or at least stay comfortable while trying): the ULTRA Merino 145 Zip-T Hunting Hoodie.
So, what’s the number one reason this is the best hunting hoodie? The sheer amount of technical features, of course. Just take a look:
- Nuyarn® Merino for comfort and temperature regulation
- Anatomical hood & shape for a better fit
- Raglan sleeves for a more extensive range of motion
- Eyelet knit side panels for improved breathability
- Thumbholes for more warmth and stability
- Flatlock seams for a reduction in rubbing and chafing
- Usable zippered chest pocket for extra storage
- High-quality YKK zippers for durability
As someone immersed in the world of technical clothing, I’m amazed at how technical this hoodie is. Yet, it still has flaws. For example, this isn’t a typical cold-weather hoodie; it’s designed to be worn next to the skin as a base layer, which may feel constricting for some. Moreover, the fabric is only 145 gsm (which we classify as ultralight), so if you’re looking for toasty treestand warmth, you’ll want to opt for something heavier.
Still, suppose you’re a hunter looking for gear to finally bag your limit. In that case, this half-zip hoodie from KUIU is a dependable, versatile option. The Nuyarn® Merino’s enhanced temperature regulation allows use over various conditions and temperatures (stay out of the brush to avoid snags and tears).
Discover why this hoodie has garnered over 1,200 five-star reviews from satisfied hunters worldwide. Click the button below to determine if the ULTRA Merino 145 Hoodie is best for you.
Best Merino Hoodie For Skiing
Helly Hansen Men’s LIFA Merino Midweight Hoodie
57% Merino Wool & 43% Polypropylene | 225 g/m2 | Athletic fit
Pros: Fantastic warmth-to-weight | Hood fits under a helmet | 2-in-1 fabric construction
Cons: Not as odor-resistant as alternatives | Limited colors | Expensive
If you’re an avid skier, I’m sure you have heard of Helly Hansen. They make everything from puffy parkas to pom-pom beanies. Basically, you could outfit your entire ski trip with their clothing – even though it may cost you a pretty penny. However, if one Helly Hansen piece that every snow bro should own is the LIFA Merino Midweight Hoodie.
At first, this hoodie may just look like your basic mid-layer. Yet, behind the minimalist design is a world of fabric technology. I won’t go too in-depth in the spirit of brevity, but there are some vital material features to note. The 2-in-1 wool/synthetic construction offers the best properties of each material. You get the warm, soft feel from the wool with the added breathability and durability of the synthetic (LIFA).
In other words, it’s designed to protect you on the slopes without irritation.
Moreover, Helly Hansen has created a mid-layer with one of my favorite hood fits on this list. It’s tight and secure, so you can wear the hood under your helmet without the annoyance of bunching or bulging. Plus, with the added flatlock seams, you probably won’t even notice you’re wearing this hoodie!
So, if you’re looking for an excellent layering piece to accompany you on the mountain, you’ve got to check out the Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Hoodie before your next ski trip!
Best Merino Wool Hoodie For Cycling
Chrome Industries Men’s Cobra 3.0 Hoodie
53% Merino, 44% Polyester, & 3% Spandex | Light-to-midweight | Athletic fit
Pros: Two-way front zip | Zippered back pocket | Reinforced cuffs with thumb holes
Cons: Sizing inconsistencies | Expensive | Not as odor-resistant as Cobra 2.0
I’ll be upfront here; I’m not a hardcore cyclist.
I enjoy a 10+ mile ride every few months, but I’m not rocking the spandex bibs. However, I always grab the Chrome Cobra 3.0 hoodie if the weather is cool. Why? Because it’s made from Merino wool, of course!
Contrary to the 100% Merino wool construction of the 2.0, the updated Cobra 3.0 is about a 50-50 split of wool and synthetics. While this isn’t the best blend for order resistance, it does improve overall breathability and weather resistance. Thus, it’s perfect for the ever-changing conditions you may experience while riding.
Yet, I (and so many other actual cyclists) love the Cobra 3.0 hoodie because of the added features explicitly crafted for riders. The three-panel cinch hood can be worn with a helmet, and the two-zip fastener provides plenty of extra ventilation. There are thumbholes and performance cuffs to reduce slippage. But, best of all, Chrome Industries has added both a front and rear pass-through zipper pocket with the 3.0 series. So, there is plenty of energy gel, Stinger waffles, and any other cycling fuel you need to finally hit that 100+ mile day.
So, if want more performance out of your cycling gear, you’ve got to test the Chrome Industries Merino Wool Cobra 3.0. We even did a full-length, comprehensive review that’s worth a read!
Best Merino Wool Sun Hoodie
Ridge Merino Men’s Solstice Hoodie
87% Merino & 13% Nylon | 145 g/m2 | 17.5 micron | Relaxed fit
Pros: Drapes exceptionally well | Super lightweight | The oversized hood is comfortable
Cons: Hem length long | Slight wrinkling with age | Drawstrings may fall out
The thought of wearing a hoodie during the summer may sound unappealing. Still, the Ridge Merino Solstice Hoodie isn’t your typical sweatshirt. The ultralight, 145 gsm fabric is highly breathable and shields you from dangerous UV rays with a UPF rating of 30+. In all honesty, I wear mine on every backpacking trip to avoid packing a big bottle of sunscreen.
So, with such thin Merino fabric, you may think this hoodie isn’t durable. Trust me, I get it. But, that’s not the case. Ridge Merino uses an industry-leading corespun fabric construction to improve overall durability, which they call (m)Force Merino. In other words, the soft Merino wool is coiled around a stronger nylon fiber. Therefore, you get all the comfort of wool with the added strength of synthetics.
However, what sets the Solstice hoodie apart from the competitors is the relaxed, flowing fit. It’s one of the most comfortable, versatile constructions I’ve seen worn. And the drape is complemented nicely by the oversized hood, which you can easily fit over a hat (or even a climbing helmet).
Although, in my experience, this hoodie has a few downsides. Since I’m on the shorter side, I wish the hem length wasn’t as long. Plus, the sleeves are a bit long for my arms since there are thumbholes. Finally, after wearing it for several consecutive days the fabric started to wrinkle because it was so thin.
Still, I would choose this Ridge Merino ultralight sun hoodie over any other sun hoodie on the market. At an affordable price, you definitely should give it a try.
Best Classic Wool Pullover
Duckworth Men’s Powder Hoody
50% Merino, 30% Acrylic, & 20% Polyester | 300 g/m2 | Relaxed fit
Pros: Excellent warmth | Flowing, draped cut | Sourced & made in the USA
Cons: Pilling potential | Runs slightly large | No hood adjustment
A lot of the Merino hoodies we talked about today have technical features for enhanced performance. However, you may not need all those features if they come with a hefty price tag. You may just need a basic, comfortable pullover for your everyday needs. And that’s where the Duckworth Men’s Powder Hoody comes into play.
No frills, all comfort; that’s what you’re getting with this Duckworth hoodie. The heavier 300 gsm material provides excellent warmth yet doesn’t sacrifice breathability. The interior wool is brushed, so there is a plush, luxurious next-to-skin feel. Moreover, the relaxed fit makes it an excellent three-season outer layer (it’s a little too warm for summer temperatures).
Above all, the Duckworth Powder Hoody is unique because it’s manufactured – and sourced – all in the USA. Most companies purchase their wool from Australia or New Zealand in the Merino industry. However, Duckworth knows its customer base prefers homegrown Merino. So, they use wool harvested from Montana Helle Rambouillet (a cousin of the Merino) in their products. It’s just as soft and high-performing as Merino, but with less fewer import fees. Therefore, Duckworth passes the savings on to you!
To summarize, if you’re looking for a classic Merino wool pullover with superior comfort, you should stop reading this now. The Duckworth Men’s Powder Hoody is waiting for you.
Best Men’s Merino Henley Hoodie
Woolly Men’s Merino Wool Henley Hoodie
100% Merino | 190 g/m2 | 18.5 micron | Slim fit
Pros: Designed for everyday use | Full kangaroo pouch | Multiple color options
Cons: The cut is a bit boxy | Not very “rugged” | Seam construction needs improvement
Alright, I know what you’re thinking: “why would this guy make ‘best henley hoodie’ its own specific category?” Well, to be honest, it was kind of a stretch. However, I couldn’t think of other categories to place the Woolly Men’s Merino Wool Henley Hoodie. And, if I left it off this list, I’d be doing you a disservice. Anyways, let’s take a look at this hybrid sweatshirt.
Unlike the other quarter-zip hoodies on this list, this Woolly sweatshirt has a three-button closure. I personally think this gives the hoodie a more fashionable, versatile look. For example, it doesn’t look like you will hike a 14er every time you wear it. And still, the improved style doesn’t sacrifice overall comfort. The lightweight fabric is soft and moisture-wicking but thick enough to be used as outerwear in mild conditions.
Moreover, as with all Woolly’s clothing, this henley hoodie is designed as Merino Foundation Wear. The founders of Woolly noticed a void in the Merino industry of casual, everyday wear. They filled that void with tons of incredible apparel. They’ve raised millions of dollars on Kickstarter and reinvented the Merino wool industry. It’s truly a great success story.
So, if you’re looking for a lightweight, everyday Merino hoodie from an excellent brand, look no further; Woolly has you covered. Although, if you plan on using your hoodie for strenuous activities, you may want to look for something heavier and more durable.
Best Value Men’s Merino Hoodie
Meriwool Men’s Base Layer Hoodie
100% Merino | 190 g/m2 | 16.5 micron | Slim fit
Pros: Excellent price-to-quality ratio | Lightweight but warm | Perfect for a base layer
Cons: Questionable long-term durability | Limited color | Too tight-fitting for some
Since starting Merino Wool Gear, my bank account and I are not on speaking terms. It’s definitely worth it but saying all these expensive hoodies are an understatement. However, in my journey, I’ve discovered a trusted brand that crafts high-quality Merino clothing at a modest price: Meriwool. And, their Men’s base layer hoodie lives up to their promise of affordable, comfortable, and high-performing Merino wool gear.
Let’s start off with the obvious: affordability. The price varies depending on availability, but it’s typically 30-50% less than the competition. However, you’re still getting the same quality Merino wool hoodie. It may not be as long-lasting, but it does the job.
Meriwool’s last promise is comfort, and they deliver. The 100% Merino wool material feels exceptionally soft on your skin. This is primarily due to the luxurious 16.5-micron fibers. Plus, the thinner fabric makes it more adaptable to a broader range of situations, from brisk morning jogs to lounging at home.
And finally, I can’t say enough about this hoodie’s performance. The thumbholes and quarter-zip make it more versatile than other options. However, you may have to get used to the tight, athletic fit. That is to say, if you’re looking for a more traditional hoodie, this one is not the best for you.
But, if you want a solid, affordable base layer hoodie, Meriwool is your best option.
Note: Suppose you don’t want your significant other to “borrow” your favorite hoodie. In that case, you also may want to check out the best women’s Merino wool hoodies.
Final Note On The Best Men’s Merino Wool Hoodies
And that’s that: the 12 Best Merino wool hoodies for men. You saw a few high-performing sweatshirts, some specialized base layers, and even a few value options that won’t break the bank. Who thought Merino wool could be so versatile?
Remember the “three F’s” when researching hoodies and any Merino wool products, for that matter. You need the right fit, the proper fabric, and all the necessary features to perform at your highest level.
Thanks again for reading, and continue onto the rest of our site for more in-depth Merino wool gear reviews, brand profiles, and the occasional FAQ. Or, if you’re pressed for time, you can follow us on social media for quick facts and deals about your favorite performance fabric: Merino wool!