Woolona Remus Base Layer Review

Material

The Woolona Remus base layer is made of 100% Merino wool. The fabric of the base layer is with the density of 195g/m² quite thick and thus perfect for colder weather. According to the brand, the base layer utilizes 18.5-micron superfine Merino wool. This is the second highest grade of Merino wool (see more here). However, I must say that the fabric feels a bit less smooth than fabrics of my other 18.5-micron Merino wool base layers. I do feel a slight itch when putting the base layer on. Not in an uncomfortable way but I do notice it.

The fabric is also quite stretchy and sturdy. Now, Merino base layers are not as durable as polyester base layers but since the Woolona Remus is made of a relatively thick fabric I think it should have quite a long lifespan. Especially if you wash it according to the instructions. Another thing I noticed when I unpacked it is that it had a weird smell. I couldn’t figure out what it smelled of, but I do recall that my WoolPro Agena base layer smelled exactly the same when I unpacked it. The smell went away after two washes, so I don’t consider this a major flaw.

The base layer is suitable for most of the year, except warm summer days where you will probably want to wear a lighter short-sleeved base layer anyway.

Comfort and Fit

All in all, I found the Woolona base layer comfortable to wear. The base layer has flatlock seams, raglan sleeves and a printed label. Therefore, it doesn’t cause chafing or rubbing. The fit is relatively tight but because the fabric is stretchy, the Remus base layer provides good freedom of movement. I never felt like the base layer is restricting my movements, even during more technical activities.

One thing that is a bit annoying is that the neckline is very low. The neckline is so low that even when I was wearing a neck gaiter my skin was poking out. So, if you’re wearing the base layer in cold temperatures it’s good to have a mid-layer with high collar over it. The base layer provides good breathability, moisture-wicking performance and odor control. I often wore it for several activities without washing it and it never became smelly. Due to the thicker fabric, the base layer dries a bit slower than Merino fabrics with a lower density. Nevertheless, since Merino wool doesn’t become as cold as polyester when wet, that’s not such a big problem.

Sizing

The Woolona Remus base layer is available in five different sizes: S, M, L, XL and XXL. According to the size guide on their website, I’m a size M by having a chest diameter of 98 cm (38.5 in.) and a height of 180 cm (5 ft. 11 in.). So, I decided to go for size M and that was the right decision. The base layer fits me perfectly. It’s not too loose nor too tight and the length is also perfect.

Washing and Drying

The base layer should be washed as any other Merino wool clothes. That means on a gentle 30° C cycle with a suitable wool detergent. After washing, it should be left to air-dry. Of course, you shouldn’t use fabric softeners, bleach or a tumble dryer for your wool apparel. The liquids will change the performance of your Merino wool base layer, while tumble drying it will shorten the lifespan of your garment considerably. Find more information about washing Merino wool clothes in our article How to wash outdoor clothing.