A solid merino wool base layer is one of those essentials that I have with me on every trek. The Pinewood Merino T-Shirt caught my eye as a great piece designed for adventure. It promised heat regulation, breathability, and durability, so I took it on two separate hikes—the Lee Trail in Luxembourg and the GR121 in the Basque Country—to see how it performed.
Review
Pinewood Merino T-Shirt Review
Publication date: 01 Apr 2025
Testing the Pinewood Merino T-Shirt
Both the Lee Trail and the GR121 were great opportunities to test this shirt across different conditions. I brought the Pinewood Merino T-shirt along with me on both because I liked how comfortable it was and knew it could handle the different conditions of the trails. The Lee Trail has steep forested sections and lots of hills, which means it required a layer that could handle shade followed by sweating on climbs. The GR121 had a mix of coastal coolness and inland warmth, which means it needed to switch functions throughout the day as well.
When temperatures dropped on both trails, the merino kept me warm without the need for lots of extra layers. The insulation of the merino worked well to trap just enough body heat without overheating. And once we were out in the sun, the shirt breathed well, wicking away sweat and keeping me dry even on the more demanding ascents.
However, comfort is where this shirt really stood out for me. The fabric felt soft against my skin. There was none of the itchiness that some merino layers can have. The fit was also excellent—form-fitting but with enough room for movement. The length runs slightly on the longer side, which worked well for added coverage but might be a consideration if you prefer a shorter cut.
It also must be noted that the odor-resistant factors of merino wool work in this shirt! For both trails, I was wearing the shirt for days in a row and never smelled the “hiker funk” that can start to creep up.
About Pinewood
Pinewood is a Swedish brand known for producing outdoor gear that prioritizes function and sustainability. Their merino wool is ethically sourced. They strive for quality while maintaining high standards for animal welfare. The company focuses on durable, long-lasting designs to minimize environmental impact, aiming to create gear that withstands heavy use rather than needing frequent replacement.
About the Pinewood Merino T-Shirt
The Pinewood Merino T-shirt is made from mulesing-free merino wool blend, designed for durability. The fabric regulates temperature efficiently, making it a versatile layer for both warm and cool conditions. Its moisture-wicking weave helps keep sweat away, while the natural breathability means comfort even on hot days.
The fit is one of my favorite standout features. It’s snug without being restrictive, and the longer length is good for extra coverage, which some may appreciate while others might find slightly excessive. Plus, the softness of the fabric takes the overall comfort up another level, making it an easy go-to option for long-term wear on the trail. Especially if the trail has city breaks, this shirt will be an easy go-to without feeling too sporty when you’re out for dinner.
Durability is another highlight. After wearing it under a backpack for a few hikes now, there were no signs of excessive wear, stretching, or pilling. I find it to be a great investment for a merino base layer and will be bringing it with me on many more trails to come!
Specifications
Pinewood Merino T-shirt | |
Material | Mulesing-free merino wool & polyester |
Weight | 140g |
Sizes | S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL |
Fabric | Quick-dry & moisture-wicking |
pro's
Excellent temperature regulation
Breathable and moisture-wicking
Odor-resistant
Soft material
Durable fabric
Nice fit
con's
Runs slightly long
Availability can be limited on the website
Higher price point compared to synthetic alternatives
Conclusion
The Pinewood Merino T-Shirt performed very well on the trails, proving its worth as a base layer. Its comfort, breathability, and odor resistance make it my ideal choice for multi-day hikes, while the soft fabric and great fit are the bonuses that sold me on it. If you’re looking for a high-performing merino shirt for outdoor adventures, this one is well worth considering.