Merino Wool Layering Guide by Temperature & Activity

Few materials compete with merino wool when it comes to staying warm, dry, and comfortable in the field. Whether you're glassing on a ridge, hiking steep backcountry, or sitting silently in a stand, how you layer—based on temperature and activity level—can make or break your hunt.

In this guide, we explain how to build a merino wool layering system that adapts to changing weather conditions and movement levels, so you stay focused and functional no matter where the hunt takes you.

Why Merino Wool Is Ideal for Layering

Merino wool isn’t just hype—it’s one of the most effective natural materials for performance hunting clothing. Here’s why:

• Moisture-Wicking: It pulls sweat away from your skin and dries quickly.
  
  
• Breathable: Keeps your core temperature regulated even as your activity levels change.
  
  
• Odor-Resistant: Naturally resists bacteria buildup, so you can wear it for days without stink.
  
  
• Insulating: Traps body heat without bulk—even when wet.
  
  
• Soft and Comfortable: Unlike traditional wool, merino feels great against your skin.
  

Understanding the Layering System

Layering is about building a system you can adjust to your environment:

• Base Layer: Sits next to your skin to wick sweat and regulate temperature.
  
  
• Mid Layer: Adds insulation, like merino fleece or light puffy layers.
  
  
• Outer Layer: Shields against wind, rain, or snow.
  
  

Depending on weather and activity, you might double up on one layer or adjust on the fly.

Layering by Temperature

Above 50°F (Mild to Warm Weather)

In early season hunts or warm climates, keeping cool and dry is your priority.

• Base: Lightweight merino like the Kaibab 150 Top
  
  
• Mid: Optional—maybe a vest for early mornings
  
  
• Outer: Windbreaker or light softshell for breeze or rain protection
  
  

Stay mobile and don’t overheat—light and breathable layers are key.

30°F – 50°F (Cool Weather)

This range covers mid-season hunts in most regions—temperatures can vary wildly throughout the day.

• Base: Midweight merino like the Kaibab 300 Merino Top
  
  
• Mid: Light fleece or grid-pattern merino hoodie like the Wasatch Crew Top
  
  
• Outer: A shell jacket or vest like the Hardscrabble Jacket
  
  

This is where modular layering shines—start cold, warm up fast, and strip layers as needed.

Below 30°F (Cold to Extreme Cold)

Late-season hunts and high-elevation hunts demand serious gear.

• Base: Heavyweight merino base like the Wasatch Merino Wool Base Layer
  
  
• Mid: Insulated down or merino puffy—like the Ptarmigan Ultra Down Jacket
  
  
• Outer: Windproof/waterproof layer like the Nebo Rain Jacket
  
  

Stay ahead of the weather. Build your layers so you don’t have to suffer through a frozen morning or a surprise snowstorm.

Layering by Activity Level

High Activity (Hiking, Spot-and-Stalk)

High-output movement generates sweat fast. Focus on breathability and moisture management:

• Lightweight or midweight merino base
  
  
• Zip-neck mid-layer for venting
  
  
• Softshell outer layer with pit zips
  
  Avoid bulky insulation—your body heat will do the work.

Low Activity (Glassing, Stand Hunting)

If you're mostly sitting still, you'll cool down quickly, especially in wind or shade.

• Heavyweight merino base
  
  
• Insulating wool or synthetic fleece mid-layer
  
  
• Windproof, waterproof outer shell
  
  

Staying warm without moving is a challenge—layer smart and stay dry to stay in the game longer.

Example SKRE Gear Layering Systems

Here’s how you might build your kit for different conditions:

Warm Weather

• Kaibab 150 Merino Top
  
  
• Uinta Pants
  
  
• Optional: Nebo Jacket (light rain)
  
  

Mid-Season

• Kaibab 300 Base
  
  
• Wasatch Crew Top
  
  
• Hardscrabble Jacket
  
  

Cold Weather

• Guardian Base Layer Top & Bottom
  
  
• Ptarmigan Down Jacket
  
  
• Guardian Bibs
  
  
• Nebo Jacket for snow or wind
  
  

Tips for Adjusting Layers On the Go

• Pack a dry bag to store unused layers
  
  
• Learn to anticipate: add layers before you chill
  
  
• Use zippers, pit vents, and roll-up sleeves to regulate heat
  
  
• Always bring one more layer than you think you’ll need
  
  

Conclusion

Mastering your layering system with merino wool is one of the smartest moves you can make for consistent success in the field. Whether it’s early-season archery or a brutal late-November rifle hunt, the right combination of base, mid, and outer layers can keep you dry, comfortable, and locked in.