Icebreaker

Icebreaker: Innovative and Natural Clothing 

Icebreaker: A Responsible and Sustainable New Zealand Brand 

Founded in 1995 by Jeremy Moon in the heart of New Zealand, Icebreaker designs merino wool clothing. By using natural fibres, Icebreaker creates garments that stand apart from what is commonly found on the market. 

Icebreaker has recognised that merino wool has excellent technical properties, with one of the best weight-to-heat ratios in the world. From its inception, the brand developed the very first natural layering system made from merino wool. In 1997, Icebreaker committed to partnering with local farmers and businesses, establishing the first long-term partnerships between wool growers and the brand. 

To meet growing demand, Icebreaker expanded its product range in 2005. It now offers clothing for all ages: hiking beanies, ski socks, scarves, and of course technical hiking base layers. 

Choosing Icebreaker means committing to a brand that aims to create natural, innovative, and responsible products. Indeed, it was one of the first brands to take a stand for the wool industry. It has banned mulesing during shearing, a practice found among many farmers that endangers animals. 

Innovation at the Heart of Icebreaker Products

All outdoor sports enthusiasts today recognise the quality of Icebreaker clothing. The brand offers high-performance products and has simultaneously developed innovative technologies. Here’s a brief overview of Icebreaker technologies used in the design of many products: 

Corespun, an innovative technology that enhances the longevity of garments. Merino wool is wrapped around a nylon filament during weaving. 

Cool Light, a blend of merino wool and Tencel™ fibre (a natural plant-based fibre). This highly innovative material increases warmth, speeds up drying, and guarantees unique breathability. 

MerinoLOFT™, an alternative to duck down made from merino wool. This thermal insulator has the same properties as natural down in a jacket: warmth, lightness, temperature regulation… What sets it apart? Its production does not involve harming animals. 

Icebreaker aims to use the most natural materials possible: merino wool, recycled fibres… It seeks to eliminate plastic dependency and is committed to a more responsible future. 

In 2018, the brand published an ethical and sustainable report to be fully transparent with its consumers. To demonstrate its commitment, Icebreaker launched a campaign in 2019: Move to Natural. This campaign envisions developing natural solutions in their products and commitments. Sustainability is not just a label at Icebreaker; it is one of the company’s core values. 

Merino Wool: A Natural Fibre in Icebreaker Clothing

Icebreaker Thermal Base Layers: Absolute Comfort 

The thermal base layers from Icebreaker are the brand's hallmark. They are all made from merino wool. Some also utilise technologies like Cool Light, which is a blend of plant fibres. 

The ski base layers are the essential first layer to keep warm and dry throughout the day. For skiing or hiking, merino wool is one of the most favoured materials. It has thermoregulating and breathable properties and is extremely comfortable. 

You will enjoy excellent freedom of movement while skiing with Icebreaker base layers. It’s hard to discuss Icebreaker merino thermal base layers without mentioning the Anatomica Boxer. With its exceptional comfort, it will undoubtedly become your favourite underwear, no matter your activities! 

The Oasis range is also highly regarded by many outdoor enthusiasts. With the 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe, it’s the perfect second skin for hitting the slopes in winter! 

Icebreaker T-Shirts: Unmatched Breathability 

For warmer days, we also recommend Icebreaker t-shirts. They are just as breathable and warm as thermal base layers. 

Icebreaker designs long-sleeve and short-sleeve t-shirts, which share a common feature: they have flat seams for exceptional comfort.  

This is true for the Icebreaker Anatomica Short Sleeve Crewe in Merino, a men's sports t-shirt that is ideal for all your winter activities: skiing when the weather is nice on the ascent, hiking in early autumn, or during your lunchtime runs. The added bonus of this Icebreaker t-shirt? It is UV and antibacterial, ensuring you stay well protected throughout the day. 

From Beanies to Icebreaker Socks: Durable Clothing for All Seasons

The quality of Icebreaker clothing does not stop at their base layers or t-shirts. They also design beanies, socks, and gloves. The Icebreaker socks are also made from merino wool and natural fibres, and we recommend them for intense activities. There are models for hiking, skiing, or running. They will provide optimal comfort and protect you from blisters and unpleasant odours. The brand has also expanded its range to offer everyday models made from merino wool.

The Icebreaker beanies and neck gaiters are also essential accessories for your outdoor activities. They will perfectly protect you from the cold throughout the day. Our extremities are the first to feel the cold, so we recommend protecting them.

Discover Our Full Range of Icebreaker Products at Hardloop 

At Hardloop, we support outdoor brands like Icebreaker in their sustainability and responsibility efforts. With their merino wool and recycled material products, Icebreaker is an excellent example of commitment to a more sustainable future. Recognised by many outdoor adventure enthusiasts for the quality of their merino wool technical base layers, Icebreaker products will accompany you in all your adventures, from ski sessions with friends to family hikes on weekends. Discover our full range of Icebreaker women's clothing and Icebreaker men's clothing. You have no hesitation left; choose Icebreaker products at Hardloop for your next mountain adventures.