We have developed a new T-shirt specifically for running.
This model maximizes the functionality of this merino wool blend running t-shirt , making it a piece that allows you to run comfortably in any environment, whether it's hot, cold, or sweaty.
Is there a running t-shirt that can be used comfortably in any season ?
The Merino Wool Run T-shirt was developed in response to requests from runners who wanted a running shirt that could be worn all year round and was durable .
The biggest stressors for runners are the excessive sweating in the summer and the cold sweat during winter runs . We wondered if we could solve these issues by taking advantage of the properties of merino wool running wear .
Sweat is an unavoidable problem when running. In the middle of summer, you sweat until your T-shirt is soaked, and it sticks to your skin, which is extremely uncomfortable . It also disrupts your concentration and can be a source of stress.
In winter, I don't sweat that much, but I do sweat enough to get my T-shirt wet. It's fine while I'm running, but during breaks and after I finish running, I get so cold I start shivering from the low temperature. If I put on the winter clothes I took off while running, I can't get warm at all because my T-shirt is soaked with sweat.
As I searched for ways to alleviate the concerns of these runners, I discovered wool and merino wool .
What is the best option for comfort?
Wool, including merino wool, is said to be a revolutionary material and is expected to be used in many clothing products, but it is expensive and has problems with durability and usability to begin with.
The material itself is very delicate, prone to moth damage, tearing easily, and pilling, making it difficult to use in all seasons with regular merino wool blend t-shirts . It's even more difficult to use in sports scenes.
However, merino wool
-High moisture absorption (approximately twice that of cotton, approximately 40 times that of regular polyester)
-Low thermal conductivity (approximately one-fifth that of regular polyester and one-seventh that of nylon)
- Deodorizing and antibacterial (effective against ammonia, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, and nonenal)
This feature is perfect for solving the sweat problem while running, and I felt that I wanted to use it somehow.
●Differences in thermal conductivity
Merino wool has a thermal conductivity 40 times lower, which means it is less likely to let heat in from the outside air in the summer and less likely to let body heat escape in the winter . Thanks to this function, merino wool is called a "natural air conditioner."
Differences in moisture absorption capacity
Moisture absorption is the ability to absorb moisture such as sweat. If moisture absorption is low, sweat will build up and lead to stuffiness, but if moisture absorption is high, like with merino wool, it will quickly absorb sweat, spread it out, and release it into the air , reducing stickiness.
We have succeeded in significantly increasing strength through our unique spinning technology.
We continued to explore whether we could eliminate the drawbacks of merino wool while striving for the ideal running wear ...
We have succeeded in solving the issues of strength (tear resistance, washability, and pilling resistance) using a certain technology .
This is where things get a little more technical...
The surface material is a special blend of wool and moisture-absorbing, quick-drying polyester .
As shown in the diagram above, by spirally enclosing bundles of long fibers inside bundles of wool and polyester fibers, we have succeeded in more than doubling the strength while retaining the texture and characteristics of wool . (This is the new, thin, strong twisted yarn "NIKKE AXIO(R)" manufacturing method.)
Furthermore, thanks to this manufacturing process, we have been able to raise the quality of the wool, and we use Merino wool, which is considered to be the finest wool.It is extremely smooth and not itchy.
And even more (sorry for getting all heated)
The polyester used in the blend is also special, and the cross section is not round but has a special irregular shape .
It may be a little difficult to understand, but moisture is absorbed into the grooves in the image (capillary action), and since the absorbed moisture has a larger surface area than a round cross section, it is quickly diffused over the surface of the fiber, allowing it to dry quickly.
In short, it has excellent breathability and quick-drying properties , absorbing and releasing sweat quickly , providing a cool feeling to the body.
All that's left is to finish it into a runner specification.
From here, we will introduce the attention to detail in the design aspects that determine the comfort and practicality of OLENO's merino wool running t-shirts .
① Bold mesh structure
Mesh fabric is used on the back and sides to improve breathability and dryness.
The mesh structure inevitably causes problems with transparency, but we have taken measures to reduce the sense of transparency when worn. This was achieved by minimizing the difference between the fabric color and the skin color.
②Eliminate even the slightest discomfort
A slight discomfort you feel when wearing a running backpack . "It feels like my shoulders are tight, like I'm being pulled backwards."
I guessed it was due to the seams on the clothes.
While a typical running T-shirt has a seam at the shoulder, the Merino Wool Running T-shirt has a seam at the same position where you would carry a running pack . This difference reduces discomfort.
3. Consideration for friction between the T-shirt and the skin
Flat seams reduce contact with the skin, so you can run without worrying about your shirt's condition.
Finally, the silhouette when worn
No matter how functional something is, it's pointless if it's unfashionable. The feeling of elation when you put it on and look in the mirror is the core of what OLENO has always valued.
The length is just right whether you wear it tucked in as an undershirt or on its own as outerwear , and the overall silhouette is stylish.
For women in particular, we focus on deep necklines to create the illusion of a long neckline , short triangular sleeves , and a gentle A-line that creates a slender curve at the waist when worn.
How does it actually feel to wear in the middle of summer and winter?
~38 degree heat day~
I ran at night, and I sweated a lot, so it didn't dry quickly, but I didn't feel like sweat was remaining on my skin, and the fabric didn't stick to my skin. In particular, the back is made of mesh, so it didn't stick to my back due to sweat.
It was so hot that day that I had to dive into the river several times to cool down, but it was comfortable and I didn't have that unpleasant smell that comes with drying off.
~Midwinter~
More details are summarized here .
Other comments from users: Male
・Hard to get cold
・The back part does not stick
-Doesn't get heavy with sweat
I feel lighter than usual
・I like the slightly larger silhouette, which is trendy these days.
●Women
・Even though it is made of wool, it is less damaged when washed.
- Looks stylish and has a good silhouette
・Absorbs sweat well
・I like the fact that the sides are made of mesh.
Frequently asked questions
Q: I'm concerned about the wool material causing friction and pilling on my running backpack. Is this ok?
A: Yes, it is. By using "NIKKE AXIO", it has better anti-pilling properties and abrasion resistance than regular wool.
*Anti-pilling: Processing that makes it less likely for pilling-like threads to occur.
Q: I'm worried that the mesh on the back will be see-through.
A: When worn, the fabric is not as transparent as it looks.
Q: Can I wear it in winter?
A: Because it is made with merino wool, it is warm in winter and cool in summer. These characteristics make it a comfortable merino wool blend t-shirt that can be worn all year round, which is one of the reasons why it is popular with many runners.
OLENO Merino Wool Run T-Shirt, endorsed by top runners
Please try it once and be amazed.
[Cooperating runners]
Hirokazu Nishimura: Winner of the 2023 ITJ and the 2022 UTMF
Narumi Mukai won the LAKEBIWA100 three times in a row in 2021, 2022 and 2023, and won the Okushinano 100 in 2023.
