Wool is a time-tested material that has long been heralded as a miracle fabric. It not only keeps you warm in cold weather, but has breathability and naturally quick-drying properties, making it ideal for activewear, too. (Wool’s flame-resistant properties are the reason why it makes for a good fireproof blanket.) Despite its many benefits, wool has fallen out of favor lately, thanks to the rise of synthetic fibers — but that doesn’t mean we can’t course-correct our shopping habits. That’s where icebreaker (yes, that lower case “i” is their preferred spelling) comes in.
Over the past few decades, natural fibers have been unfortunately (and rapidly) replaced in the American clothing industry by synthetic textiles, like polyester. But with growing concern about microplastics negatively impacting everything from ocean health to our bodies’ cognitive functioning, many of us are rethinking our choices. Maybe you’re swapping out your plastic food containers for glass and silicone (like Katie!), but have you considered making the switch to natural fibers in your wardrobe, too?
Founded in 1994, icebreaker has always been committed to its core mission: to produce quality clothing with minimal environmental impact. This premium Merino wool apparel brand creates technologically advanced and stylish alternatives to synthetics, all while harnessing the power of wool. The result? Thermoregulating, moisture-wicking, and even odor-resistant clothing that’s soft, breathable, and — dare we say it — fashionable. It’s also based in New Zealand, homes to some of the best wool in the world (where there are five times more sheep than humans, incidentally).
icebreaker is dedicated to removing plastics from performance apparel and everyday basics, and its limited use of plastics in its garments is notable. Currently, the brand is 96.14% plastic-free — an impressive feat considering that all stretchy fabrics (like leggings) require a touch of spandex.
From chic base layers that keep you cozy to barely-there undergarments so comfy you may forget that you’re wearing underwear, shop our favorite icebreaker picks today.
