Merino Wool Resources
I have reviewed numerous merino wool or blended merino wool or alternative merino wool products over the last 15 years. And the question I always get is “Why is it SO expensive”?
Please read my post in 2016, “High performance does not mean high price over the long run”, to get detailed information.
Ridge Merino for Travel & Everyday Use
Now to Ridge Merino. This is a privately owned company headquarters in Mammoth Lakes, Calif. Ridge Merino offers men’s and women’s Merino wool base layers, mid layers, tees, and tanks. The company also offers men’s and women’s underwear as well as several eco-friendly accessories.
Merino wool is the gold standard in terms of athletic performance apparel – noted for its breathability, warmth, and comfort.
In the first of two Ridge Merino product reviews, we focus on the Tencel Tee, Polo Shirt, Boxer Brief, and Boy Shorts for warm and hot weather travels. Merino wool’s natural odor resistance and breathability make it the perfect choice for travel and pairing it with Tencel makes it even better for hot weather trips.
Pairing merino wool with Tencel is Ridge Merino’s secret to staying cool. Tencel absorbs even more sweat than Merino wool, holding onto moisture (sounds counterintuitive) so it can slowly evaporate with your body heat. This natural cooling process keeps you feeling fresh all day long. When the weather turns hot and humid, lightweight Merino + Tencel clothing is your ultimate solution for all-day comfort.
15% DISCOUNT
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Ridge Merino Journey Merino Wool Polo Shirt
Level up your wardrobe with the Journey Merino Wool Polo – perfect for when a t-shirt just won’t cut it. This polo combines the luxury of ultra-soft Merino wool with unbeatable performance. Whether you’re heading to work or hitting the road, this shirt has your back.
It resists odor, wicks moisture, and offers natural sun protection (UPF 30-50), keeping you fresh and comfortable all day. Plus, it’s quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant, and built to last with their (m)Force™ technology. Sustainable, stylish, and travel-ready—this polo is the ultimate go-to for any adventure.
With (m)Force™ Technology (proprietary blend of merino wool and nylon), the Journey Polo Shirt has reinforced fabric thus making it more resistant to wear and tear and lasts longer even in demanding conditions.
Pros:
- Extremely soft and feels great against the skin.
- Looks good in different settings, from casual to slightly formal.
- Odor-resistant, great for extended wear without washing.
- Temperature-regulating, keeping you cool in the heat and warm in the cold.
Cons:
- It can be a bit more expensive than regular cotton polos, but you’re paying for the high-quality Merino wool and the extra performance features.
- Extra care to wash it gently (hand wash or delicate cycle) to ensure it lasts longer.
The Ridge Merino Journey Polo Shirt is an ideal shirt if you’re looking for something that can handle a variety of situations. Whether you’re traveling or just want to look sharp at a casual event, this shirt will perform well while keeping you comfortable. The price reflects the premium material and design, but if you value versatility, comfort, and durability, it’s worth the investment.
Ridge Merino Natural Merino Tencel Tee – Eastside Print
Stay cool and show your love for the Eastern Sierra with their Natural Tencel Eastside Print Tee. Crafted from ultra-soft Tencel, it’s softer than silk and cooler than linen, making it the perfect summer companion. This tee wicks away moisture, regulates temperature, and breathes effortlessly, keeping you fresh on hikes or layered year-round.
Featuring a simple Eastern Sierra logo, this shirt is a go-to for summer adventures. Plus, the Merino wool blend fights odor naturally—no chemicals needed. Lightweight, durable, and always comfortable, it’s your new favorite for outdoor fun!
This shirt comes with a longer length, which is great for layering and staying tucked in during activities – a few inches longer than regular T-shirts. Security-wise, it’s good to cover pockets in some travel situations when left untucked.
Pros:
- Super soft and comfortable, not itchy like regular wool.
- Temperature-regulating, perfect for various activities and climates.
- Odor-resistant, great for extended wear without washing.
- Stylish design with the Eastside Print.
- Eco-friendly, made from natural, sustainable materials.
Cons:
- It can be a bit more expensive compared to synthetic shirts.
- Requires exceptional care (like cold washing) to keep it in good condition.
Overall, the Ridge Merino Natural Merino Tencel Tee – Eastside Print is a versatile, high-quality t-shirt that delivers on comfort, performance, and sustainability. If you’re willing to invest just a bit more in a shirt that feels great, performs well, and has a lower environmental impact, this is an excellent choice.
Ridge Merino Ridge Boxer Briefs 2.0
Upgrade your comfort with the new Ridge Merino Boxer Briefs 2.0 —crafted for ultimate softness and durability. Designed for any adventure you can dream up, these boxer briefs feature a supportive fit, horizontal fly, and gusseted crotch. Made with Merino wool next to your skin, they resist odor, wick moisture, and keep you cool and dry all day.
Their (m)Force Technology allows for extra strength, stretch, and sustainability. Free of chemicals and microplastics, these briefs are good for you and the planet. With flat lock seams and a no itch waistband, they’re built for everyday wear. Durable, breathable, and always comfortable, these are your go-to briefs!
For those who prefer an easy-to-use fly, you can go with the original Ridge Boxer Briefs.
They fit snugly without being too tight, thanks to the addition of spandex. They stretch and move with you, offering good flexibility whether you’re working out or just going about your day. The seams are flat (tagless, printed labels), which reduces the risk of chafing. This is especially important for running long distances!
I did not see any noticeable pill after extended wear and wash.
The Ridge Merino Ridge Boxer Briefs 2.0 are an excellent choice if you want performance underwear that can keep up with an active lifestyle while being comfortable enough for everyday wear. With temperature regulation, moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and durability, they’re versatile for any situation, whether you’re traveling, hiking, or just going about your day.
Ridge Merino Ridge Boy Shorts Underwear
Meet the Ridge Merino Boy Shorts Underwear – the perfect blend of style and comfort for any activity. Whether you’re working out, exploring outdoors, or just relaxing, these boy shorts are super soft, stay in place, and keep you comfortable all day.
With extra coverage and warmth, they’re ideal under base layers or ski pants in winter. Made with Ridge Merino (m)Force Technology, they naturally resist odor, wick moisture, regulate temperature, and provide sun protection. Plus, they’re free from chemicals and microplastics, making them good for you and the planet. Comfortable, durable, and ready for anything!
Almost identical observations as we did with the Boxer Briefs including comfort, odor and temperature management, and durability, the Ridge Merino Ridge Boy Shorts Underwear is a solid choice for women who value comfort, durability, and functionality. The Merino wool blend provides softness, odor resistance, moisture-wicking, and temperature regulation, making them perfect for both active use and everyday wear. They’re particularly ideal for women who travel, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply want high-performance underwear that stays comfortable throughout the day.
My female wear tester loved the Ridge Boy Shorts Underwear that she bought additional pairs for her future travels.
Recommendations
Ridge Merino products are soft, comfortable, durable, moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, odor-resistant, and eco-friendly. You may pay a few dollars more for merino wool clothing from all manufacturers, but each product is worth the investment.
Compared to big name labels, Ridge Merino prices are actually a lot lower!
What are you waiting for? Get them on your holiday wish lists next.
Caring for Merino Wool
Ridge Merino has a great section on their website on how to wash and care for your merino wool clothes. Merino wool is naturally odor resistant and needs less washing, saving you time and money on water and energy bills.
When you do laundry, please:
- Wash on Cold or Warm
- Lay Flat or Line Dry in Shade
- Iron on ‘wool’ Setting
- Dry Cleaning Allowed
- No Fabric Softener
- No Bleach
Merino Wool Resources from Ridge Merino