As the weather begins to shift away from the summer heat and into cooler nights. Hunters begin to get a little antsy. Hunting season is fast approaching and this is the time to get your kit sorted out before fall. KUIU, a leading manufacturer in technical hunting gear, provides everything from base layers to waterproof outerwear and backpacks. And everything in-between. I’ve been fortunate enough to test some of their gear including the Ultra Merino 145 Zip-T featuring Nuyarn technology.
Nuyarn Technology
“Developed in New Zealand, Nuyarn technology has revolutionized the Merino wool market. Taking the twist out of the yarn has produced a fabric with higher stretch and recovery, better moisture management, and greater warmth. It is stronger than the average Merino wool on the market, yet boasts the same natural odor resistance and comfort.” ~kuiu.com
When I was a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment, we used a layering system for various mission sets. Beginning with a base layer, we built upon that with insulating layers and ultimately an outer layer. Creating a functional yet protective clothing system. KUIU’s Ultra Merino 145 Zip-T is a lightweight wool and nylon blend that is best suited as a next to skin base layer.
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The Nuyarn blend is naturally itch-free, odor-resistant and moisture wicking. Perfect for any high activity hunt. Additionally, the eyelet knit side panels and under arms further increase the fabrics breathability is typically damp locations. KUIU even added stealthy thumb loops near the cuff that keeps sleeves from riding up. The front 1/2 zip makes dawning and doffing much easier as well as providing a way to regulate heat. There’s even a small zippered chest pocket to stash your deer tag or ID.
Ultra Merino 145 Zip-T Features:
- 90% Merino Wool / 10% Nylon | Side: 83% Merino Wool / 17% Nylon
- YKK Zippers
- 1 zippered chest pocket
- Thermo-regulating
- UPF 50+ Sun Protection
- Moisture wicking and quick drying
- Highly breathable
- Highly resilient
- Flat lock seams
- Anatomical shaping for fit and comfort
- Side panels and raglan sleeves for added comfort and reduced chaffing
- Eyelet knit side panels for maximized breathability
- MSRP: $109
The Ultra Merino 145 Zip-T from KUIU has been a great long term base layer for various hunts so far. Early spring trudging through wet upland areas in Northern Michigan hunting Chukkars, the 145 did everything that it advertised. The skies were spitting so I had a waterproof shell on. With only the Ultra Merino 145 Zip-T underneath. The moisture wicking kept my skin dry and ultimately warmer. While other hunters in the party struggled with moisture and heat management, I never made any adjustments.
Looking ahead to a few trips this winter to Iowa and Missouri, I can assure you that the Ultra Merino 145 Zip-T will be on the packing list. On the menu are whitetail deer and possibly some Canada Goose. Hopefully I’ll be able to report back with a look at some of KUIU’s outer layers as well. Stay tuned!
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