Winner of the ISPO Award 2024: The Merino Blend 800 RealFleece™ Classic Pile LS Zip from icebreaker

This mid-layer fleece offers a responsible alternative to the iconic classic polyester fleece. It combines a nostalgic, adventurous look with modern responsibility by completely eliminating the use of petrochemicals. 

For this versatile fleece midlayer, icebreaker uses a double-sided brushed velour fabric and combines two different yarns: a blend of ZQ/RWS certified merino wool and FSC certified TENCEL™ Lyocell. A nylon filament yarn inside the fabric, made from 100% plant-based carbon (castor beans), increases the durability of the midlayer. 

What you won't find in the garment is any petroleum-based fibers. Neither the shell nor the lining contains petrochemicals. Due to the construction of the fabric, only natural and plastic-free fibers, Merino and TENCEL™, come into contact with the user's skin, ensuring great softness and comfort. 

The midlayer is made from 36% merino wool (18.9 micron) from New Zealand and Australia, 55% TENCEL™ Lyocell from Austria and 9% polyamide from Italy, with 100% carbon sourced from Castor beans (in accordance with ASTM D 6866:2022).

When designing the midlayer, icebreaker focused on a classic look and versatile usability. The garment features two side pockets that are not secured, which feel particularly cosy, and a practical two-way zip for additional ventilation. Thanks to the typical excellent properties of merino wool and TENCEL™ Lyocell and the innovative fabric construction, the garment offers better thermal insulation and breathability, as well as temperature regulation and odor control. 

The midlayer is available for men and women and will be launched in August 2025.  

• No petroleum chemicals 
• Better thermal insulation and breathability thanks to innovative fabric construction 
• Extraordinarily soft, warm and comfortable 
• Classic look for maximum versatility