If you’ve ever looked into merino wool clothing for travel or cold weather trips, Woolx is a brand that comes up often in online travel forums and Reddit threads.
They’re known for merino base layers designed to keep you warm without heavy or bulky fabrics, which matters a lot when you’re building a winter capsule wardrobe or want staple pieces that still let you spend time outdoors in the cold.
I tested several Woolx pieces during an unseasonably cold winter in Northern California, including a snowy Christmas trip to Lake Tahoe and plenty of everyday wear back at home.
As I wore these pieces, I paid close attention to how warm they felt, how they handled moisture and odor, and whether they stayed comfortable after hours of wear.
In this Woolx review, I’m sharing my honest experience with the Woolx pieces I tested, including what I’ve been reaching for most, what didn’t work as well for me, and whether these merino layers are worth the cost and deserve a spot in your suitcase.
Details
Woolx Pieces I’ve Tested & How Long I’ve Worn Them
Total testing time: 3 weeks, across 5 different styles
Best for: Cold-weather travel, layering under winter outerwear, outdoor activities, and casual winter staples
Not ideal for: Wearing alone in very cold weather or if you want more stylish (but less practical) winter clothing
PIECES TESTED (Since Dec 2025)
– Peyton Turtleneck (Slim Fit)
– Hannah Long Sleeve Top (Regular Fit)
– Piper Pocket Leggings (Tall)
– Stella Leggings (Tall)
– Joey Crew Socks
Pros
- Cold-weather pieces are warm without feeling heavy or bulky
- Breathable even when layered under other clothing like jeans
- Excellent moisture-wicking and odor control, even after sweating
- Easy to re-wear between washes, which is especially useful for travel
- High-quality luxe fabric that feels soft, thick, durable, and well-made
- Thoughtful sizing options, including tall lengths in pants and longer tops that work well for layering (from reading other’s reviews, it seems like their clothing is also plus-size friendly)
Cons
- Expensive compared to some other merino wool brands
- Slight itchiness at first if you have sensitive skin
- Leans more functional than stylish, although less outdoorsy looking than most other merino wool clothing brands
- Limited color options, mostly neutral colors offered
Woolx Review: The Woolx Clothing I Tested
Testing my Woolx clothing during a Christmas trip in Tahoe, including playing with my son in the snow (left) and hanging out at our cabin (right) with my Woolx base layers on.
I tested two shirts, two pairs of leggings, and one pair of Woolx socks over about three weeks, wearing them in real cold-weather situations for both travel and daily winter life. Most of the time, I used these pieces as base layers, wearing them under sweaters, jackets, and insulated outerwear rather than on their own.
As I wore them, I paid close attention to warmth, comfort, fit, moisture-wicking, odor control, and how the fabric felt after long days of wear, including situations where I worked up a sweat.
A couple of moments really stood out. One was Christmas Day in Tahoe, when we took my 10-month-old son out for his first time in the snow. We went sledding, built tiny snowmen, and threw snowballs as a family, and I stayed warm without feeling restricted.
Another was after a big winter storm, when I had to pull over and put chains on my car along the highway. Layered up in my Woolx base layers under a winter jacket, I was genuinely grateful to be warm while standing outside in freezing conditions.
Overall, I’ve been wearing most of the Woolx pieces regularly since they arrived. The tops have been my most-worn items day to day, one pair of leggings ended up being my favorite out of everything I tried, and the socks have been great for cozy work-from-home days and with my snow boots in Tahoe. There’s just one pair of leggings that I haven’t reached for as much. Below, I’m breaking down each piece individually, including fit notes, comfort, and overall thoughts.
Peyton Turtleneck
I’ve been testing the Peyton Turtleneck (slim fit) in plum, size small, since December 2025.
Rating: 9/10
Best for: Travelers who want one merino layer they can rely on for long, cold days. Anyone who appreciates a cozy turtleneck that works well for layering in cold weather.
Not ideal for: Those who want a cropped turtleneck or a thinner, sleeker style rather than a more practical, substantial layer.
The Peyton Turtleneck ended up being one of my favorite pieces out of everything I tested from Woolx, and the one I’ve reached for the most. I wore it constantly during our Tahoe trip and have continued wearing it regularly since.
The fabric feels soft and stretchy, with a very slight itchiness when I first wore it, which I noticed with other Woolx clothing as well. That went away after the first wash and hasn’t been an issue since, but it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to wool. I also love the richness of the plum color, which is more unique than a standard black or gray base layer yet just as versatile.
The slim fit has a nice structure without feeling tight or restrictive and works well for layering. The longer length is another big plus for me, especially postpartum, since it feels comfortable and flattering rather than cropped. As someone who’s 5’10, I also appreciate that the sleeves hit at the right length.
In terms of performance, the Peyton keeps me warm in cold and snowy conditions without adding bulk under outer layers. It also handles moisture well and doesn’t hold onto odor after sweating, which makes it easy to re-wear without needing to wash it immediately. As someone who sweats a lot, especially under the arms, this is something I really appreciate.
If you’re new to merino wool or only want to start with one Woolx piece this winter, this is the one I’d recommend. It’s versatile, layers well, and works just as well for travel as it does for around town.
Hannah Long Sleeve Top
I’ve been testing the Hannah Long Sleeve Top (regular fit) in simply taupe, size small, since December 2025.
Rating: 8/10
Best for: People who want an easy, no-thinking-required merino layer to rotate through winter trips and daily cold-weather outfits.
Not ideal for: Those hoping for a top that can double as a stylish standalone piece for a capsule wardrobe. It’s a great basic and good for layering and outdoorsy destinations, but not as versatile for cities where you might want something more elevated.
The Hannah Top is a simple, straightforward merino long sleeve that works well as a daily base layer. Compared to the Peyton Turtleneck, it feels more like a classic layering piece rather than a standout on its own.
The regular fit is relaxed without feeling oversized, and the longer length makes it easy to wear under sweaters and jackets. The sleeves on this one are also perfect for my tall frame.
The simply taupe color took a little getting used to at first, but it’s ended up being more versatile than I expected. It pairs easily with a lot of the browns and neutrals in my closet.
I’ve been reaching for the Hannah when I want a low-key, solid base layer that I don’t have to think about (In fact, I’m wearing it right now while writing this review because it’s so cozy for work). It’s not as polished as the Peyton, but it’s practical, easy to layer, and does exactly what it’s supposed to do.
If you’re deciding between the two, I’d choose the Peyton if you want something that feels less athletic and can stand on its own more, and the Hannah if you want a dependable, everyday merino wool base layer.
Stella Leggings
I’ve been testing the Stella Leggings (no pocket) in black, size medium tall, since December 2025.
Rating: 10/10
Best for: Cold-weather travel and outdoor trips where you want warm, comfortable thermal base layer bottoms.
Not ideal for: Anyone who prefers ultra-thin thermal tights or very compressive performance leggings.
The Stella Leggings ended up being my favorite piece out of everything I tested from Woolx, and for good reason. It’s genuinely hard to find thermal base layer leggings that are actually high-waisted and comfortable, and these hit the mark perfectly.
The fabric thickness is my second favorite feature. They’re substantial enough that you could wear them on their own without feeling exposed or see-through, but still slim and flexible enough to layer under jeans or other pants without feeling bulky. Most thermal leggings feel more like tights, and most regular leggings are too thick to layer well. These sit right in the middle.
They’re also incredibly breathable and stretchy without feeling tight or compressive, and the high waist stays put when I’m moving around. I also appreciate the tall sizing. At 5’10, these actually fit my legs, which is hard to find sometimes.
If you’ve struggled to find thermal leggings that are versatile and actually work the way you want them to, these are absolutely worth it. They feel practical, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed.
Piper Pocket Leggings
I’ve been testing the Piper Pocket Leggings in bracken, size medium tall, since December 2025.
Rating: 6.5/10
Best for: Travel days or outdoor outings where you want merino warmth with pockets and don’t mind more of a mid-rise fit.
Not ideal for: High-waisted-legging lovers or anyone who gets annoyed by leggings that don’t stay put.
The Piper Pocket Leggings were my least favorite piece out of everything I tested from Woolx, mainly because of the fit rather than the fabric itself. While the product page describes them as high-waisted, they tend to fall down and therefore fit more like a mid-rise on me, sitting an inch below my belly button once I start walking in them, which isn’t my preference.
I’m not sure why these ones always slip down when the Stella Leggings stay put; my only guess is that the pockets weigh them down. I’ve never put anything in the pockets while wearing them, but since these aren’t compressive leggings, the pockets might be enough to bring the fabric down. Also, I love pockets on leggings in theory, but since I mostly wore these under other pants in colder conditions, they didn’t end up being as useful as I expected.
That said, the fabric itself is still very nice and feels a little thicker than the Stella Leggings. Like the other Woolx pieces, the material is high quality, warm without being heavy, and soft against the skin. I think these would make more sense in slightly warmer weather, when you could wear them on their own and actually use the pockets.
If you like mid-rise leggings and want merino warmth with pockets, the Piper could work for you. But if you prefer a true high-waisted fit that stays put, the Stella leggings are a better option.
Joey Crew Socks
The Joey Crew Socks are the perfect weight to wear with snow/hiking boots (left) and also as cozy cabin/home socks during winter (right)
I’ve been testing the Joey Crew Socks in dark espresso since December 2025.
Rating: 10/10
Best for: Cold-weather travel, winter boots, and winter wear when you want warmth and comfort without heavy socks. Also, great cozy socks to wear around the house.
Not ideal for: Anyone who prefers very thin socks, ultra-heavy winter styles, or maximum cushion for hiking.
The Joey Socks have been a really solid staple for me so far this winter. They’re soft and warm with a nice amount of cushioning (midweight) that makes them comfy for long periods of wear.
I also love the rich, dark espresso color. It goes with a lot in my wardrobe, and it’s more interesting than the usual standard neutral sock colors like black, grey, or white.
I’ve worn these socks with my hiking boots, which double as my winter boots, as well as around the house on cold days and while staying in a winter cabin over Christmas. They keep my feet warm and dry without feeling overly padded or tight. They really are the perfect balance of not too thin and not too thick for a winter sock.
If you want a warm merino sock that works just as well for travel and outdoor use as it does for cozy winter days at home, these are a great option.
Woolx Compared to Other Merino Wool Clothing Brands
I’ve personally tested Woolx and Smartwool so far, but I haven’t worn every merino brand out there. Based on my experience and research, here’s how Woolx stacks up:
Woolx vs Smartwool
Wearing my Woolx Peyton Turtleneck in San Francisco (left) and my Smartwool merino wool base layers on the Northern California Coast (right), both in winter.
Woolx tends to feel softer and thicker than Smartwool in the pieces I’ve tested. Smartwool clothing often feel lighter and more athletic in cut, with a more performance-driven fit, and they’re a little more affordable. Smartwool also runs smaller, tighter, and it’s not as stretchy (I size up for a lot of their clothing), whereas Woolx feels more relaxed in similar sizes. I personally find Woolx clothing to be cozier, but both brands handle moisture and odor well.
–> Read my complete Smartwool review here.
Woolx vs Unbound Merino
Unbound Merino focuses heavily on minimalist travel wardrobes, with pieces designed to be easy to pack and wear for long stretches without washing. This is probably the most stylish merino wool brand out there, but they don’t offer much in terms of warm clothing for winter. Their styles lean sleek and simple and tend to work best in warm or temperate weather. On the other hand, Woolx offers base layers for cold weather, but also lightweight all-season pieces.
Woolx vs Ibex
Ibex is known as a strong outdoor and performance-focused brand, with many pieces tailored to hiking, skiing, and other technical activities. Woolx also performs well outdoors, but its range extends into cozier everyday pieces and more lifestyle-friendly cuts.
Woolx vs Icebreaker
Icebreaker is one of the more established merino brands and offers a wide range of products. Their pieces are often described as soft and comfortable and are commonly used for outdoor activities, travel, and daily wear. Compared to Woolx, Icebreaker is more performance-oriented and outdoorsy overall.
FAQs About Woolx Merino Wool Clothing
Does Woolx merino wool itch?
For me, there was slight itchiness when I first wore the tops, which went away after the first wash and hasn’t been an issue since. If you’re very sensitive to wool, it’s something to be aware of, but I personally found the fabric more comfortable after wearing it a bit.
Does Woolx Shrink after washing?
I’ve washed all of my Woolx clothing at least once and I haven’t had any issues with shrinking. I wash them on the gentle cycle and then tumble dry low.
Is Woolx sold in stores?
No, Woolx clothing is only sold directly through their website.
Is Woolx an American company?
Yes. Woolx is an American company that designs its merino wool clothing in the U.S., though, like many apparel brands, it manufactures products overseas (China and Turkey), and their merino wool comes from Australia. The brand was founded in New York and operates its headquarters there.
Is Woolx worth the price?
Woolx is definitely expensive, with many pieces around the $100–$150 range. That said, the fabric quality, warmth, and the ability to re-wear pieces without frequent washing make them feel like long-term staples that are worth the cost.
Is Woolx warm enough for snow and cold weather?
Yes, especially when used as intended as a base layer. I wore Woolx pieces in snow and freezing conditions, layered under outerwear, and stayed warm without feeling bulky.
Can you wear Woolx on its own, or does it need to be layered?
All of the pieces I tested can work on their own in cool or mild weather. In colder conditions (under 50 F), I almost always layered them under sweaters or jackets.
How does Woolx sizing run?
Woolx runs more relaxed compared to some other merino brands, like Smartwool, but is still true to size. I appreciated the longer lengths and the availability of tall sizing, which fit my lanky 5’10 body well.
How often do you need to wash Woolx merino wool?
Not often. One of the biggest benefits I noticed with Woolx clothing is its odor resistance. Even after sweating, the pieces didn’t smell once aired out, making it easy to re-wear them without washing after each use. I’ve only had to wash each piece once (minus the socks, which I’ve washed more) in the three weeks I’ve been testing them.
How is Woolx shipping and customer service?
My experience with Woolx shipping and customer service has been very good. Shipping was quick, and communication was responsive and easy, which is always nice when ordering higher-priced pieces online.
Is Woolx good for travel?
Yes. The pieces I tested packed well, didn’t feel too heavy, and worked across travel days, outdoor time, and regular wear at home. They’re especially well-suited for cold-weather trips where layering is key.
Conclusion: So, Is Woolx Worth It?
After testing several pieces from Woolx over the past few weeks, here’s my honest take: Woolx is worth it if you’re willing to invest in high-quality merino clothing that actually performs in cold conditions and feels comfortable to wear again and again.
The pieces I tested, especially the Peyton Turtleneck, Stella Leggings, and Joey Crew Socks, stand out for their softness, warmth, and thoughtful design. They’re the kinds of clothes you can rely on when you’re traveling, spending hours outside, or just trying to stay cozy on a long winter day.
Woolx isn’t cheap. The price point is tough to swallow if you just want basic thermals or aren’t planning to wear them regularly. But if you value versatility, comfort, and long-lasting pieces that you can wear multiple times between washes, their clothing is worth the cost.
If you’re packing for travel, planning outdoor adventures, or just want to add some basics to your winter wardrobe, Woolx is a solid option.
Looking for more travel clothing recommendations? Read my related articles below!
Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe For Women
10 Best Wool Shoes For a Cozy Winter
Best Hiking Leggings For Women
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thank you for the in-depth review. i’m also a fan of merino for its natural, breathable quality. i’ve found that first-wear itchiness can be avoided if i soak a new merino item in the sink with 3/4 cup white vinegar for an hour or so, then rinse and lay flat to dry. cheers!
Great tip, thanks!