When I first started buying merino clothing, I didn’t pay attention to the gsm of the items. Nor did I look at the percentage of wool in the clothes. I have since learned better. Lower gsm is good for warm weather or an under layer but I need the higher gsm for colder months (and yes, I still have to layer).
I also look at the percentage of wool and try to never buy less then 50% and usually above 80%. A small amount of nylon/spandex increases durability and washability, so I’m okay with that. I do have some 100% merino items and sometimes they seem to stretch and sag a little quicker, but not always. Trial and error sometimes as you find your favorite companies. But do remember to check, item names may say merino but only have 5% (and yes, I bought some of those early on).
Two other things I watch for are machine washability, although I find most hand-wash items do just fine in my machine on the gentle/hand wash setting, and non-mulesed wool. To learn more about this, read this page.
Warning when you start buying…in addition, you may find sizing is all over the place. Be sure to check the return policy of the company where you are purchasing. I started with everything in a large since that is what I was buying in all my other clothes. Well, it worked out for tops (thanks to being a bit busty and needed to camouflage my middle), but my dresses are either a small (wool& Sierra) or medium (wool& Audrey and Maggie). My heavier tops (sweatshirts and hoodies) are in both medium and large, it’s trial and error for sure! My leggings are large but my dressier pants are medium. Go figure…just be patient and if you can, check out the Facebook groups to find others with your measurements. It helps. Here are my favorite groups:
Discuss ALL brands, as well as for trade/sale items
https://www.facebook.com/groups/woolobsessed/
Only discuss brand specific items and no reselling:
Woolx: https://www.facebook.com/groups/discovermerinowool/
wool&: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wooland100daychallenge/
Buy/Sell/Trade:
Woolx BST: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1524948231751177/
wool& BST: https://www.facebook.com/groups/878656519555175/
