The Nature 150 is part Icebreaker's Ultralite line and is described as being silky soft and light, allowing the wearer to push her limits in the outdoors in clothes which are manufactured of a fabric that keeps you warm when it's cold, keeps you cool when it's warm, offering maximum breathability, all while remaining odor resistant, and feeling silky soft against the skin. The Ultralite line is meant to be worn as an under layer all year round in varying temperatures.

Field Conditions and Use:

I purchased this shirt to wear as a base layer during the fall, winter, and spring and I have worn this shirt approximately 40 times for multiple activities over the past year including running, snowboarding, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The temperatures during my outdoor activities generally ranged from 20 F (-7 C) to 55 F (13 C). The fabric is very thin and is best worn as a base layer, although I have, on occasion, worn a tank top underneath and have worn it as a mid-layer with a light waterproof shell or soft-shell on top for warmer days.

Photo: Front View

This is actually the second Icebreaker Ultraline base layer that I had purchased in the exact same model, but a different color. I love how the merino wool feels against my skin. It feels like a soft cotton t-shirt and is the most comfortable base layer that I own. Some of the synthetic fabrics on the market have a harsh feel against my skin but the merino wool feels great, and at the same time, does a great job of allowing my skin to breathe even during active pursuits and even when I am sweating, I never notice a smell which many of the synthetic base layers emit after prolonged activity.

I was disappointed that the first one that I purchased reacted to my deodorant and I ended up with yellow underarm stains. I loved the shirt so much, however, that I purchased this one and I have now switched deodorants to one that has no aluminum chlorohydrate so that I would never ruin a merino wool shirt again and so far, I have not experienced the same problem.

I wash the shirt in warm or cold water and allow it to hang dry and it has held up well with no fraying, or discoloration. The fit of the shirt is trim fitting which allows for easy layering and design is attractive. The sweetheart neckline is also comfortable, without being too low or high cut. The shirt never feels too tight or constricting, and the fabric has a nice stretch. The Icebreaker shirts and merino wool in general are pricier than some of the synthetic base layers on the market, but I think that the investment is worth it for the quality and comfort. I do wish however that the company provided a warning on the care instructions advising of the reaction of aluminum-based deodorants and wool products.

Photo: Design Detail on Fabric

THINGS I LIKE:

Lightweight
Breathable
Wicks moisture
Attractive fit and design which allows for easy layering

THINGS I DON'T LIKE:

Reaction to some deodorants and lack of warning on label
Price

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Owner Review by Kristine Mar