Introducing the Mustang 100% Merino Sun Hoodie. Born and raised on the trail, this 150gsm pure merino wool is a sun hoodie at heart, but also makes a fantastic winter base layer for year-round functionality.
 
Most light-weight merino wool products are a blend of wool and polyester or nylon. The Mustang is 100% New Zealand merino wool making this a very rare plastic-free and 100% natural fiber hoodie. It's proving that 100% merino can handle thru-hiking with the proper care. I tested it on the Sunshine Coast Trail in BC and the CDT in Wyoming. It is still on the CDT headed to Canada. There is no lab test that simulates real world use and the longer it stays out there, the more confidently I can recommend this for thru-hiking.
 
The hoodie is still out on the CDT currently getting a full thru-hike longevity test. It has gone 500 miles through some really tough conditions in Wyoming and Idaho. The areas I expected the wear and tear, under the pack waist belt and shoulder straps are fine. There are holes on the sleeves from getting snagged on things, and wear around the wrist under the trekking poles. It's still fully usable at 500 miles but I recommend being ready to hand sew holes on the trail, and recommend rolling up the sleeves some of the day to reduce wear under the trekking poles if you use them, which I like to do anyway for better air flow. 
 
This hoodie will last significantly longer doing day hikes, bike packing, snow sports, trail running etc. But is still proving itself to be a pretty good thru-hiker as well. 
 
This hoodie is cut as a sun hoodie. Actually the same cut as my Monarch sun hoodie with the extra large and deep hood, and thumb tabs instead of holes in the sleeves. UPF is currently untested but is estimated to be around UPF 25. It is 100% antimicrobial and 100% biodegradable. It is hand-made to order by me in Bend, Oregon. Lead time 7 days. If you need higher UPF and more durability check out my Monarch Sun Hoodie. If you want a wool blend that splits the difference check out the Mazama hoodie.
 
Pair this with an Alpha Direct mid layer and you have a modular Alpha with wool system that is way more functional than Alpha with wool fleece alone. 
 
Size chart in product photos. Reach out if you have questions. 
 
Tips and tricks:
 
For maximum life make sure your pack doesn't have anything rough or abrasive against your body. If you snag yourself on something, STOP! Stop and untangle your shirt before you keep going. Repair with needle and thread. Wash in cool or cold water and either lay flat to dry or tumble dry on low heat.