About Smartwool
Smartwool was founded in 1994 by ski instructors Peter and Patty Duke during a ski trip in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Frustrated with uncomfortable cotton socks that absorbed moisture and caused blisters, they set out to develop better performance socks made from Merino wool.
The brand‘s focus from the start has been creating technical apparel that enables outdoor adventure while also caring for the planet. Smartwool aims to build sustainability into every part of its supply chain – from responsible farming practices to recycled packaging.
Today Smartwool offers extensive lines of Merino wool socks, base layers, tops, bottoms, underwear, gloves, hats and accessories for men, women and kids.
Sustainability Practices
Smartwool works closely with the 150 Merino sheep farms that supply its wool, providing education and incentives around sustainable land management. Requirements include preserving natural waterways, restoring native vegetation, and upholding ethical treatment of livestock.
On the manufacturing side, Smartwool uses bluesign® approved factories that meet rigorous standards for water usage, emissions and workplace safety. The brand also utilizes recycled nylon and wool scraps in select products. Packages are 100% recycled content and PFC free.
Smartwool Sock Review
With hiking, skiing, snowboarding, trail running, travel and everyday wear in mind, Smartwool offers an extensive range of Merino wool socks engineered for performance, comfort and durability.
Smartwool Sock Categories
| Sock Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| PhD Outdoor Light | Hiking, backpacking | $17-$25 |
| PhD Outdoor Medium | Cold weather hiking, winter sports | $21-$28 |
| PhD Run Light | Running, fitness | $17-$23 |
| PhD Run Medium | Colder weather running | $21-$28 |
| PhD Ski Light | Skiing, snowboarding | $17-$25 |
| PhD Ski Medium | Cold weather skiing, snowboarding | $21-$30 |
| Hike Light | Light hiking, fitness walking | $13-$23 |
| Hike Medium | Backpacking, hiking | $17-$25 |
| Run Light No Show | Running, fitness, everyday wear | $14-$20 |
| Ski Light | Skiing, snowboarding, winter sports | $17-$25 |
| Snowboard Light | Snowboarding | $17-$25 |
| Hunt Light | Hiking, hunting | $17-$23 |
Key features across Smartwool‘s sock lines include virtually seamless toes for reduced irritation, durable Indestructawool reinforcement in high-wear zones, ventilation zones for breathability, and a wide variety of cushioning options from ultra-thin to extra thick.
Most styles are available in multiple heights including no-show, crew and knee-high. Sizing accommodates narrow to wide feet with separate charts for men, women and kids.
Why Choose Smartwool Socks?
As compared to cotton, acrylic or generic wool socks, Smartwool offers:
- Soft, itch-free comfort next to skin
- Moisture wicking to keep feet dry
- Temperature regulating in warm and cold conditions
- Odor resistant even after long wear
- Customized padding zones to prevent blisters
- Durable construction for years of use
- Machine washable convenience
For runners and hikers who log serious mileage, the PhD line provides Smartwool‘s most advanced combination of fit, cushioning, ventilation and durability.
Meanwhile the everyday Hike Light and Run Light socks balance useful tech features with attractive designs and more budget-friendly pricing.
Smartwool Base Layer Review
Smartwool‘s Merino wool base layer tops and bottoms deliver soft, breathable, moisture-wicking performance perfect for hiking, skiing, snowboarding and cold weather running. Key technologies include:
Base Layer Collections
| Line | Highlights | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Merino 150 | Lightweight, versatile year-round base layer | $80-$110 |
| Merino 250 | Midweight, high performance cold weather base layer | $95-$125 |
| Intraknit | Lightweight Merino-polyester blend with knit-in ventilation | $120-$140 |
| Nordic | Premium Merino for extreme cold pursuits | $150-$175 |
Why Choose Smartwool Base Layers?
Reasons to choose Smartwool base layers over synthetic options include:
- Itch-free soft Merino wool comfort
- Effective moisture wicking and temperature regulation
- Lower odor retention
- Unpleasant plastic sweaty feel
- More slim tailored fits
- Eco-friendly natural fiber
The Merino 150 collection hits the sweet spot of lightweight, next-to-skin comfort perfect for higher output aerobic activities or moderate weather.
Meanwhile the Merino 250 and Nordic lines dial up the warmth for frigid pursuits like ice climbing, mountaineering and polar exploration.
Smartwool Top Review: Hoodies, Sweaters and Jackets
For cool weather layering or apres-adventure relaxing, Smartwool‘s lineup features both technical and lifestyle sweaters, hoodies and jackets.
| Style | Use | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Merino Sport Hoodie | Active insulation layer | $140 |
| Jensen Sweater | Lifestyle sweater | $138 |
| Cozy Cabin Hoodie | Warm casual layer | $140 |
| SmartLoft Divide Vest | Insulated vest | $170 |
Both the technical hoodies and lifestyle sweaters feature classic Smartwool softness, breathability and odor resistance.
The SmartLoft styles insulate wet and cold weather pursuits with durable, warm and quick-drying recycled polyester fiberfill.
For serious winter warmth, the Jensen Ridge Fleece Jacket ($250) and Whiskey Mash Insulated Jacket ($299) defend against frigid, wet conditions.
Smartwool Accessories Review
To protect ears, hands and heads from the elements, Smartwool also crafts beanies, gloves and mittens using comfortable, breathable Merino wool.
| Accessory | Highlight | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Turner Beanie | Classic cuffed beanie | $30 |
| Mallory Gloves | 3-in-1 convertible mittens | $95 |
| Ultralight Run Gloves | Touchscreen compatible | $45 |
| Balaclava | Cold weather face mask | $40 |
Like Smartwool‘s socks and base layers, the accessories shine for softness, breathability and odor control. Touchscreen conductive fingertips allow easy device use without removing gloves.
Is Smartwool Worth the Price?
At the end of the day, most Smartwool fans enthusiastically agree the investment pays off through many years of comfortable adventures.
However, over the past 5 years approximately 15% of reviews cited some decline in durability and quality compared to a decade ago. Most complaints involve thinner sock walls leading to quicker wear in high friction zones.
Smartwool acknowledges they have tweaked certain items to enhance fit and lighten weights. But they assert quality controls remain just as stringent while continuing to offer excellent warranties against defects.
When comparing to cheaper generic wool brands, key reasons to choose Smartwool include:
- Precision-engineered features that optimize performance, fit and comfort
- Quality control and attention to detail
- Industry leading sustainability practices
- Innovative use of technology like Indestructawool and mesh ventilation zones
- Trend-right colors, prints and styles
For shoppers on tighter budgets, Smartwool does offer solid performance and values among their Everyday Light socks and Simple Layers underwear and base layers.
Among competitors, Icebreaker tends to overlap with Smartwool‘s dedication to sustainability but has a cooler hipster vibe. Minus33 provides comparable quality at lower price points but lacks advanced proprietary tech.
Smartwool Promotions & Discounts
Smartwool offers several ways to save, including:
- Joining their Explorer rewards program for 15% off and free shipping
- Seasonal web specials up to 60% off
- Clearance section with discounted items
- Checking third party sites like Backcountry or REI Outlet
- Signing up for email list to receive occasional 25% off coupons and sale alerts
They also provide a student verification program for 15% off certain purchases.
Where to Buy Smartwool
Popular places to buy Smartwool products include:
- Smartwool.com
- Backcountry.com
- REI
- Moosejaw
- Amazon
- Nordstrom
Stores typically discount Smartwool socks, base layers and other products during seasonal sales in late winter and mid summer. Be on the lookout for deals around Memorial Day, Labor Day and Black Friday.
Smartwool FAQ
How long do Smartwool socks last?
With proper care, Smartwool socks typically maintain their cushion, shape and comfort for 2-4 years or longer depending on usage frequency.
The PhD line lasting 1-2 years with near daily wear, while lighter everyday styles may see 3-4+ years.
How do Smartwool socks fit?
Designed to hug the contours of the foot, Smartwool socks fit close but not constricting.
People switching from bulky cotton socks often prefer sizing down. Using a sock ruler tool like SockDrawer provides highly accurate recommendations.
Can you repair holes in Smartwool socks?
Small holes or tears under 1" can easily be repaired using a special wool sock darning kit. Clear instructions are provided.
Smartwool also offers a generous lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects. Submitting a warranty claim form on socks with larger holes typically provides a credit or replacement pair.
How does Smartwool compare to Icebreaker Merino wool?
While both brands offer exemplary Merino wool clothing, Smartwool has a performance and technical focus geared for outdoor sports, while Icebreaker skews more fashion and lifestyle oriented.
Icebreaker tends to embrace thinner, stretchier fabrics amplified through striking colors and prints that make a bold sustainability statement. Smartwool leans toward precision-engineered functionality for serious athletes.
The Last Word
For outdoor enthusiasts wanting to invest in premium socks and base layers engineered for comfort, warmth and durability across years of adventures, Smartwool delivers.
The brand stands behind its products with an excellent warranty while building environmental care into every stage of the supply chain.
While Smartwool costs more than bargain options, the quality materials, research-based tech and real world performance justify the price for many. Exploring merino wool requires paying a bit more, but your feet will thank you.
