Materials and Construction

Merino sheep reside high up in the New Zealand mountains, where the weather fluctuates between extremely cold and extremely hot depending on the season. In order to withstand such harsh climates, the sheep rely on their wool, the very same wool Mons Royale uses for their base layers (and does so without harming the sheep).

So what’s so great about merino? First of all, the fine fibres have the ability to keep you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s not. The wool is incredibly breathable and fast-drying, why it also manages moisture so well. Merino moves moisture away from the skin and can absorb up to 30% of its own weight before feeling wet. However, if it does end up getting wet it still maintains the ability to keep you warm thanks to its natural insulating properties.

On top of that, Merino doesn’t stink – even if you do. The wool contains natural anti-bacterial properties that help protect against odour, so you won’t need to feel bad about wearing this for a whole week without washing it.

If that wasn’t enough, Merino is also incredibly soft and itch-free, so even if your body would react badly to wool, you won’t need to worry about merino wool having the same effect on your skin.

“Don’t be intimidated by the price, this thing will last you longer than the cheaper variations”

Fit and Features

The Yotei top is designed in a standard fit, not too tight or too loose, for both men and women. You’ve also got plenty of different cuts to choose from as the top is available in a simple long-sleeved version, long-sleeved with a high neck or long-sleeved with a hood.

As for the features, you wouldn’t expect much of a base layer, and case in point the Yotei makes sure to keep it simple with thumb loops to help keep the sleeves in place as its only added feature.

“Merino moves moisture away from the skin and can absorb up to 30% of its own weight before feeling wet”

Roundup

Mons Royale keeps up a high standard when it comes to producing high-quality merino base layers. This is a reliable brand, with reliable products, that are soft, moisture-wicking, and sustainable. You won’t ever go wrong investing in a base layer from Mons, nevertheless investing in the everyday-every occasion Yotei one.

Pros:

• Basically, everything you need from a good, basic, merino base layer
• Sustainability points – read the whole story on how Mons goes about their production and the treatment of the sheep on their website

Cons:

• Would be great to have a pair of Yotei pants to go with the Yotei top

“Born out of a desire to have a functional, high quality base layer that looks the part too the Yotei was the inspiration to start Mons Royale. It is the original loose fitting base layer that represents the brands core values; a 100% natural, sustainable product that is as appropriate on mountain as it is off.”

Buy the Mons Royale Yotei Base Layer: £120 at Blue Tomato UK 

Buy the Mons Royale Yotei Base Layer: €130 at Blue Tomato EU