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Struggling to pack light for your winter travels? Choose merino wool! It’s the best fabric for traveling light and staying warm in the winter. Find out the best merino wool sweaters!
Best Merino Wool Sweater
Table Of Contents
Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:
Everyone recommends merino wool for winter traveling. What are your suggestions for the best merino sweaters?
Nothing will ruin your trip faster than standing outside freezing because you packed the wrong type of clothing. When traveling during the winter months, make sure you include a merino wool sweater on your packing list!
A sweater like this is also versatile to wear around town, during the times you aren’t traveling either!
Start by reading these tips on packing for cold-weather travel:
- Winter Packing List
- How to Pack for Cold Weather
- How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather
- The Best Travel Shoes for Winter
Here are our picks for the top merino wool sweater women return to again and again!
Best Women’s Merino Wool Sweaters
Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J Crew
J. Crew Margo Women Merino Wool Sweaters
If you’ve been reading TFG for a while, you know how obsessed we are with J. Crew. The Margo crewneck sweater comes in many gorgeous colors, so there is a color to suit everyone, and it’s soft as well as durable. It’s offered in inclusive sizing too (XXXS-3X)!
One ardent fan says, “I love my sweaters, as they are incredibly soft. I’m a little obsessed now.” Another one adds, “I only get my merino wool sweaters from J. Crew, as they are such great quality.”
However, another huge TFG editor and reader fave is the J. Crew Tippi sweater!
Alex hanging out in J.Crew Tippi Sweater and Anatomie Skyler Pants
It’s beloved so much; we did a video review on it:
Watch this video on why the J. Crew Tippi sweater is warm yet comfy for winter!
And TFG editor-in-chief Alex also wrote a specific review on the benefits of this sweater for winter travel!
Tip: If you want an even cheaper option similar to J. Crew, you could look up a Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Sweater review or shop directly here— it’s priced under $4o.
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Nordstrom
Halogen V-Neck Women’s Merino Wool Sweater Blend
Halogen is another well-priced option, and this cute merino wool jumper is made from soft merino wool and looks beautifully classic—with a V-neck and ribbed cuffs.
One user describes this as “the perfect thin merino wool sweater.” It’s packable yet will keep you warm when it counts. Comes in tons of lovely colors and sizes XS-XXL.
Shop Sizes XXS-XXL and 2X-3X: Nordstrom | Zappos | Madewell | Amazon
Madewell Grenville Merino Wool Sweaters Womens – Plus Sizes Available
For a totally cozy choice, this braided stitch sweater by Madewell is soft due to the blend of alpaca and merino wool. It has a slightly boxy look that will go with regular leggings, jeans, or fleece-lined leggings.
Users report that it may look heavy but describe it as lightweight. Comes in sizes XXS-XXL and 2X-3X and some gorgeous colors, so go ahead and shop here!
Shop: Banana Republic
Banana Republic Women’s Fine Merino Wool Sweaters (Washable)
The key to a capsule wardrobe for winter is to use great base pieces, and this chic merino wool sweater comes in many colors to suit anyone’s style and in regular and petite sizes. The biggest plus? It’s washable, which makes it perfect for travel when you need to wash on-the-go!
The timeless crew neck, flattering silhouette, and lightweight feel make this packable or wearable most anywhere!
Shop Sizes S-3X: Amazon
Aventura Willa Merino Wool Womens Sweater – Plus Sizes Available
This ladies merino wool sweater is a cute tunic style described as “very warm and light.” And it’s size inclusive, available from sizes S-3X.
The semi-braided design adds interest, and you could wear this for travel or out and about. It would look lovely with Ponte pants or leggings, and ankle booties or knee-high boots!
Shop: Amazon
KNITTONS Italian Merino Wool Sweaters
Speaking of “fine merino wool sweaters,” you can’t go wrong with this stylish turtleneck, which evokes European flair. Made from Italian merino wool, this is amazing for travel because it won’t pill nor wrinkle.
Comes in multiple colors. An incredibly lightweight staple that you can layer or wear alone!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon
Aran Crafts Merino Wool Cardigan Sweater
The epitome of chic and practical, this beautifully crafted sweater seems right out of an Irish tourism brochure but with the modern touches of a biker jacket. It has a zip feature and even pockets to warm your hands!
Wearers describe it as super-soft yet sturdy, so it can hold up to the rigors of travel or daily life. And it can double as a pullover jacket!
Grab this in other shades and sizes XS-XXL.
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon
Minus33 Merino Wool Sweater Hoodie
This could very well be the best merino wool hoodie! Minus33 is a long-time reader favorite, and this cutie could be added to the hall of fame.
This black merino wool sweater is a pull-over style that’s durable, soft, and lightweight and has a hood to protect your head. A perfect layering piece that’s a bit more casual but would look terrific with skinny jeans and Chelsea ankle boots!
Comes in sizes XS-XXL and gray color as well!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon
Carraig Donn Turtleneck Womens Merino Wool Sweater
Maybe we’re a little obsessed with all things Irish, but this merino wool pullover sweater is crafted from Ireland, and the gorgeous textured pattern makes it stand out!
It has a cozy turtleneck and side slits that add to an overall flattering fit. Described as “soft and warm,” we can’t help but agree!
You can check out the other four pretty colors, and it comes in sizes XS-XXL.
Smartwool Shadow Pine Extra Fine Merino Wool Sweater
When it comes to making fabulous fine merino wool sweaters Smartwool is a top candidate. This V-neck selection has a lovely ribbed texture and a loose, yet modern look.
It comes in two other wonderful neutral colors. Wearers have said it’s soft and lightweight, a wonderful accompaniment to your winter capsule wardrobe!
Ladies Merino Wool Sweaters Comparison Chart
| BRANDS | REVIEWS | RATINGS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
J. Crew Margo Women Merino Wool Sweaters |
“I only get my merino wool sweaters from J. Crew, as they are such great quality.” It’s offered in inclusive sizing too (sizes XXXS-3XL Plus)! | Check Price | |
Halogen V-Neck Women's Merino Wool Sweater Blend |
One user describes this as “the perfect thin merino wool sweater.” It’s packable yet will keep you warm when it counts. Comes in tons of lovely colors and sizes XS-XXL. | Check Price | |
|
Madewell Grenville Merino Wool Sweaters Womens |
For a totally cozy choice, this braided stitch sweater by Madewell is soft due to the blend of alpaca and merino wool. It has a slightly boxy look that will go with regular leggings, jeans, or fleece-lined leggings. | Check Price | |
|
Banana Republic Women's Fine Merino Wool Sweaters |
The key to a capsule wardrobe for winter is to use great base pieces, and this chic marino wool sweater comes in many colors to suit anyone’s style and in regular and petite sizes. | Check Price | |
|
Aventura Willa Merino Wool Womens Sweater |
This ladies merino wool sweater is a cute tunic style described as “very warm and light.” And it’s size inclusive, available from sizes S-3X. | Check Price | |
|
KNITTONS Italian Merino Wool Sweaters |
Speaking of “fine merino wool sweaters,” you can’t go wrong with this stylish turtleneck, which evokes European flair. Made from Italian merino wool, this is amazing for travel because it won’t pill nor wrinkle. | Check Price | |
|
Aran Crafts Merino Wool Cardigan Sweater |
The epitome of chic and practical, this beautifully crafted sweater seems right out of an Irish tourism brochure but with the modern touches of a biker jacket. It has a zip feature and even pockets to warm your hands! | Check Price | |
|
Minus33 Merino Wool Sweater Hoodie |
This black merino wool sweater is a pull-over style that's durable, soft, and lightweight and has a hood to protect your head. A perfect layering piece that’s a bit more casual but would look terrific with skinny jeans and Chelsea ankle boots! | Check Price | |
|
Carraig Donn Turtleneck Womens Merino Wool Sweater |
It has a cozy turtleneck and side slits that add to an overall flattering fit. Described as “soft and warm,” we can’t help but agree! | Check Price | |
Smartwool Shadow Pine Extra Fine Merino Wool Sweater |
When it comes to making fabulous fine merino wool sweaters Smartwool is a top candidate. This V-neck selection has a lovely ribbed texture and a loose, yet modern look. | Check Price |
Why Merino Wool Is So Popular
When choosing the best clothing for your vacation, fabric is an important factor to consider. (Read this post to find out the best fabrics for travel.) Merino wool is not just perfect for cold weather, it is also fantastic for warm weather, because it helps keep you cool.
Merino wool is the ultimate travel fabric, because it is super lightweight, durable, and very versatile, so you will only need to pack a few items. One of the best advantages of merino wool is that it wicks away moisture while retaining airflow, keeping you warm and toasty while you’re out sightseeing!
Here’s the best merino wool clothing for women!
How to Wash Merino Wool Sweaters
A smart traveler secret is that you can wear your merino wool sweaters multiple times before needing to wash them. If you do want to wash them in the machine, make sure you wash at a low temperature on a gentle machine cycle. Use a wool or delicate option if available.
If you are worried the machine might ruin the wool, then hand wash your sweater inside out to prevent bobbling. Also, double check the washing instructions on the label to ensure you are washing your sweater correctly.
Don’t use fabric softener, as it will coat the wool fibers and limit the wool’s ability to wick away moisture and keep you warm. Always dry on the line, and do not put your merino wool sweater in the tumble dryer.
One reader shares, “I machine wash my merino wool sweaters on a cold setting and then hang them out to dry.” Another reader adds, “I never wash my sweaters with regular soap or pods, as fabric softener can ruin them.”
Tip: If you attempt to wash your merino wool sweater while traveling, it may take forever to dry!
How to Care For Your Merino Wool Sweater
The best way to protect your merino wool sweaters when you’re not wearing them is to store them in a tightly sealed storage container to keep bugs and moths away from the wool. A few readers store their wool sweaters in storage bags to protect their sweaters from moths.
One reader says, “I make sure my sweater is clean and properly dry, and then I place it in a bag until it gets cold again.” A reader shares how she places her merino wool clothing in a drawer with an “unwrapped bar of soap or a lavender satchel to keep my clothing lovely and fresh.” Another reader says she “uses a cedar chest for my wool items. I put moth balls in with them.”
Moth balls, cedar balls, or a lavender satchel are the main methods that readers recommend to keep merino sweaters free from bugs and fresh for use next time.
Compass Rose Carryon Packing Cubes
How to Pack Your Merino Wool Sweater
Packing cubes will change the way you pack. We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything—ESPECIALLY your sweaters!
We put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. Check out the first video below:
Learn our packing hacks with packing cubes in this video!
If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
What do you think are the best merino wool sweaters for traveling in the cold? Share in the comments below!
For more ideas on what to wear in cold weather, please read:
- Best Merino Wool Clothing
- Best Merino Wool Dress
- Best Thermal Underwear for Women
- How to Dress for Cold Weather
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Has anyone else noticed problems with small holes in both wool and cotton, and even blends these days?
I would REALLY like to know what is causing these? Everything from high-end cashmere and Merino sweaters to
cotton ( and blend) jersey sheets! It’s nuts!