I/O Merino Elemental Jacket

 

I/O Merino’s Elemental Jacket is a 260 gsm zip-up top designed to be a streamlined, layer that is both fashionable and functional, offering a good look while still boasting the performance of Merino wool.

Everyone talks baselayers now-a-days, but not a lot of attention is placed on Mid-weight layers. A Good mid-weight layer complements your baselayers by providing insulation in cold or windy weather, when an outer layer isn’t necessary and your lightweight top isn’t enough. If you don’t have a good Mid-layer, I recommend you start looking out for one.

Let’s take a look at the features and then try it on for size.

Features

• Made from 100% wool ‘Colossus’ MircoMerino® waffle fabric. The waffle texture of this fabric has great thermal properties by capturing the body heat between the ridges.
• Weight: mid weight (260 gsm)
• Raglan sleeves for ultimate backpack compatibility
• Contrasting coloured zip and vintage-look arm badge, to get the real I/O Merino look
• rear-facing back pocket
• MSRP: $79.95

Testing

This jacket has been a go to merino midlayer for those cold mornings, afternoon bike rides, and evenings fishing on the lake.

What do we think?

We continually extoll the benefits of Merino wool. If you haven’t heard our ranting, here’s a quick list of its benefits:

• Sustainable and Renewable (Good sheep!)
• Naturally Antimicrobial
• Resists Odour build up
• Great Thermal regulation with its naturally hollow fibers
• Moisture wicking – Quick Drying
• Insulates even when wet
• Super soft
• Machine Washable

First thing to note is its fit. It is definitely an athletic fit. It’s very comfortable to wear, but to give you an idea of the fit if my sleeves are rolled up then it’s obvious by the bulges… I try to pass them off for bigger muscles.

To prevent the bulging pockets problem, I/O Merino scrapped them, except for a pocket on the pack that fits a medium sized wallet. It’s definitely improves the look.

The waffle weave is really comfortable and it does a great job of insulating. It was an obvious choice in Canada’s cold spring mornings.

If I’m honest, I had to look up what a “raglan sleeve” was. It’s that style where the sleeve’s seam is right at the collar and not at the shoulder. It means you have one solid piece of fabric, and less discomfort when carrying a backpack. It’s a good choice, especially for those that are backpackers.

Those of you who frequent the blog know I often complain about the length of tops. Too many tops I’ve tried are short, especially when you lift your arms for activities. Fortunately, the hip length of the Element Jacket is long enough that I don’t get a cold waist when raising my arms.

The price of the top is $79.95. This is frankly a great price for a midweight top, especially for merino wool.

The full length zipper adds weight to the top, but it adds flexibility for temperature regulation.

On top of this jacket being a great midlayer for outdoor activities, it looks good. I’ve worn this to work countless times and often to semi-formal events. It looks good and performs great.

Conclusion

I/O Merino’s Elemental Jacket is a great looking, high performing merino wool mid-layer. The price is right on target, the fit is great and it’s a great part of a good layering system.

Check out I/O Merino online here.