Wool Is Cool

Sir Edmund Hillary climbed in wool. Dick Durrance skied in it. And Eddie Mercx rode in it. We, however, tend to eschew this natural fiber because it doesn't dry quickly—a moot point in winter when we're wearing Gore-Tex outer layers anyway. Time to smarten up. The fact is, wool doesn't stink after an hour (or three days) of aerobic activity, doesn't itch when worn next to skin (only cheap wool, like cheap polypropylene, is itchy), and looks great. Plus, unlike synthetic, petroleum-based fleece, wool doesn't involve dependence on Mideast oil. True, increased demand will heighten our dependence on New Zealand shepherds. But do we really need to fear the sheep cartel?

* Ortovox's Aletsch ski-touring trousers ($203), and a SmartWool T ($36, top).

* Ibex Women's Cirque jacket ($198) lined with merino wool on the inside and featuring a stretch fabric made from a Schoeller blend on the outside (bottom, left).

* Nike ACG's Zip Boarder sweater ($75, bottom middle).

* Ibex Skye Pullover ($90, bottom right).

Photos: Sam Yocum