WoolWeenies Club

[jessmarimba]

Really, jess...

You do know that if the fit is a little off in a wool garment that you can block it to fit you!

(malkin, the wool devil temptress...bwah ha ha haaaaaa!)

I don't know if I can fix these! Most of the shirts fit perfectly through the shoulders and sides but are too short and/or the sleeves are too short. I guess I could buy up a few sizes but even that is no guarantee :(

Unrelated - the one wool "t-shirt" I have never smells b/c of me sweating, but seems to be the only thing that comes out of the wash all stinky. How do I fix that?

[Catrin]

I don't need a picture, it sounds good. I just didn't want the one with the giant "SWOBO" across the front, which I saw when I was googling. M would be better than L, but I'm not too fussy about size. It could be a little big.

PM me your address, since I know you moved since our last transaction.

lph, you look gorgeous! I love those dresses.

Will go ahead and send the PM, and no, it isn't across the front at all. Regardless I will confirm the size once I get home. I do not think you will find it too big.

[GLC1968]

I don't need a picture, it sounds good. I just didn't want the one with the giant "SWOBO" across the front, which I saw when I was googling. M would be better than L, but I'm not too fussy about size. It could be a little big.

PM me your address, since I know you moved since our last transaction.

lph, you look gorgeous! I love those dresses.

I'm going to guess that the jersey Catrin has is the same one I am wearing in this photo:
http://i631.photobucket.com/albums/uu34/GLC1968/mesmaller.jpg

It's one of my favorites!

And I agree: LPH, you look great!

[redrhodie]

I'm going to guess that the jersey Catrin has is the same one I am wearing in this photo:
http://i631.photobucket.com/albums/uu34/GLC1968/mesmaller.jpg

It's one of my favorites!

And I agree: LPH, you look great!

It's pretty! I'm sending Catrin the shorts right now, so sorry if anyone else wanted them. This happened fast!

[OakLeaf]

Unrelated - the one wool "t-shirt" I have never smells b/c of me sweating, but seems to be the only thing that comes out of the wash all stinky. How do I fix that?

If what you mean is that it smells like sheep when it's wet, the way you fix it is by learning to love that smell. Particularly when you're sweaty and it's the only thing you smell of ... or on a winter day when you've washed all your wool and are drying it in the house. :cool:

[Catrin]

It's pretty! I'm sending Catrin the shorts right now, so sorry if anyone else wanted them. This happened fast!

It isn't the same jersey, I did manage to find :

http://www.biketiresdirect.com/productimages/images450/twwsm2-2.jpg

This looks quite similar, but the neck is different on mine. You can see a portion of the logo on one of the sleeves, it is in the same place. It looks better in person than in this photo.

[jessmarimba]

Haha oak - I now have a really funny visual in my head. But I don't think it smells like sheep...more almost mildewy/rotten. Unless that's what wet sheep smell like. I usually use Arm & Hammer laundry detergent but maybe I need to switch.

(I've smelled the rotten smell in clothes before, in an apartment with a washer that was growing...something...in it, but at that time ALL of my clothes smelled yucky. Maybe the wool is just more sensitive and this is my warning sign)

[GLC1968]

It isn't the same jersey, I did manage to find :

http://www.biketiresdirect.com/productimages/images450/twwsm2-2.jpg

This looks quite similar, but the neck is different on mine. You can see a portion of the logo on one of the sleeves, it is in the same place. It looks better in person than in this photo.


The photo you posted is the same jersey I am wearing, just a different color. :) It fits beautifully - curved like a woman and plenty long enough for my longer torso. Of course, if your neck is different, then all bets are off. ;)

[redrhodie]

It isn't the same jersey, I did manage to find :

http://www.biketiresdirect.com/productimages/images450/twwsm2-2.jpg

This looks quite similar, but the neck is different on mine. You can see a portion of the logo on one of the sleeves, it is in the same place. It looks better in person than in this photo.

Cool! I'm sure it will be perfect.

[Catrin]

The photo you posted is the same jersey I am wearing, just a different color. :) It fits beautifully - curved like a woman and plenty long enough for my longer torso. Of course, if your neck is different, then all bets are off. ;)

I was trying to tell in the photo, I thought yours had a different cut:) I think this is probably the same jersey or very, very close.

I agree that it does have a beautiful fit :)

[Crankin]

lph, the skirt looks like this:

http://www.ibexwear.com/shop/product/1835/2488/womens-izzi-skirt

But, it seems like this one is longer than the one I have. Mine is above the knee. Maybe it's just my perception. I got it for half price, in the summer, a couple of years ago.

[Biciclista]

got my ibex order last night, today I am wearing my new pullover Shak and my husband loves his new longsleeved T-shirt. He asked me why I only bought one! so then my mind does this thing, hm, I could order him a new shirt and I could get another Shak too!!!! I'm DOOMED!

[GLC1968]

I am a true wool weenie today. Icebreaker wool skirt, Ibex wool t-shirt and a Neve wool sweater over it. If my Smartwool VFF's were the charcoal color, I'd have them on as well!

I received my package from Sierra tradingpost last night. Two gorgeous wool sweaters from Neve and a wool wrap for me, and just to allieviate some guilt - a gorgeous wool sweater (also Neve) for my husband. Ah...wool!

(oh, and he loved the Ibex blanket as a V-day gift!)

[redrhodie]

This is pretty:

http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodIC_6B30.html

Free shipping, too.

Edit, Which pocket is the tire pump pocket?

[Biciclista]

that is a nice looking jersey.

what would i be wearing without wool (blush) today?

[GLC1968]

That is a beautiful jersey - and I like the color too!

[Catrin]

This is pretty:

http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodIC_6B30.html

Free shipping, too.

Edit, Which pocket is the tire pump pocket?

OMG that is BEAUTIFUL! Pity my Gunnar is currently taking my extra cash right now for I would just have to snap it up otherwise!

[Catrin]

Something happened, I am unsure what or when...but I realized as I was riding home this afternoon from my ride just how much wool I was wearing! Brand new Smartwool socks, Smartwool base layer, new Smartwool full-zip long-sleeve jersey....and I've some shorts on the way thanks to Redhodie! You ladies are quite the enablers :)

I also must say that I was perfectly comfy riding with those layers and just had on a Cannondale wind-breaker convertible nylon jacket on - and it was a windy 51 degrees or so. In the past I've been rather cool in those same conditions when I just had on the wool base layer and a non-wool jersey over it with a thermal jacket.

I've a question about my new Smartwool jersey. Here it is, though I didn't get it from TE which is where I snagged this photo - my LBS was kind enough to sell it to me at a 50% discount :D

http://images.teamestrogen.com/ri/300/300/2009_Fall/SW-17401-306.jpg

The tag that comes with it says that it is "washer and dryer friendly". Should I trust that? I've no problem putting my Smartwool into a gentle cycle with cold water - but in the dryer :eek: Am I overly-concerned?

[Biciclista]

I have put smart wool in the dryer, but I would rather not. It didn't hurt, but the heat probably will shorten the life of the fabric, and even at 1/2 price i bet it wasn't cheap.

[Catrin]

I have put smart wool in the dryer, but I would rather not. It didn't hurt, but the heat probably will shorten the life of the fabric, and even at 1/2 price i bet it wasn't cheap.

Thank you, that is what I was thinking but wanted to check. No, at half price it was still far from cheap. Couldn't resist it though - it is beautiful and will last me a very long time. No more cycling clothes purchases until the bike is home but this one was a good one as I figured it would be good to have ONE thing that actual fit and wasn't 2 sizes too big :)

[malkin]

I don't put wool in the dryer for the usual reasons and because I like the sheepy smell and I like touching it as I walk by.

You can wash in warm water, but don't agitate while it is wet.

[Catrin]

I don't put wool in the dryer for the usual reasons and because I like the sheepy smell and I like touching it as I walk by.

You can wash in warm water, but don't agitate while it is wet.

I've always sent it through the full cycle, though on cold...I didn't know that was dangerous, thanks!

[malkin]

Wool is such cool stuff--It has sort of scales on the outside of each fiber. Warm water opens them up and if they are agitated while the scales are open then the fibers will enmesh with each other. From our perspective this is felting.

If you get the wool hot but don't slosh it around then the scales just go back where they were without hooking up with their neighbors.

To sum up: Higher temps are ok. Higher temps + agitation may cause felting.

Some wool is treated chemically to change the structure, but with such a pretty jersey, why risk it?

[Catrin]

Wool is such cool stuff--It has sort of scales on the outside of each fiber. Warm water opens them up and if they are agitated while the scales are open then the fibers will enmesh with each other. From our perspective this is felting.

If you get the wool hot but don't slosh it around then the scales just go back where they were without hooking up with their neighbors.

To sum up: Higher temps are ok. Higher temps + agitation may cause felting.

Some wool is treated chemically to change the structure, but with such a pretty jersey, why risk it?

Ahhhh, ok. So if stick with the cold water then it is safe to send it through the full cycle? I am just afraid that if I try to hand-wash it that I won't get enough water out and bad things will happen....my hands are quite weak due to arthritis.

Of course, for now at least, it isn't touching my skin so I won't need to wash it every time I wear it...

[Becky]

Of course, for now at least, it isn't touching my skin so I won't need to wash it every time I wear it...

I don't wash my wool stuff every time I wear it, skin contact or not. As long as it doesn't smell once it's dry, it's ok for another wearing IMO.

[OakLeaf]

I haven't been able to find flat dryers (http://www.amazon.com/Sweater-Dryer-Clothes-Stackable-27Sqx5/dp/B0010XIWTW/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1298073858&sr=8-6) in stores for several years now. The ones I've linked to work fine, but unfortunately, on the last batch I got, the mesh top is actually made for a smaller base, so it pulls the legs out of alignment and they can't be stacked.

Every wool weenie needs this accessory.

[malkin]

I use a folding wood drying rack sort of like this:
http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=wood+folding+drying+rack&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=UTF-8&rlz=1I7ACAW&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=13839164910547169596&ei=mjJfTejiGcKC8gbx_MCwDA&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=image&resnum=3&ved=0CEUQ8gIwAg#

Stuff can be organized to drape over 1,2,3, or 4 bars depending on size and weight and how much else there is to hang up.

I have 3 of them.

[OakLeaf]

I have a couple of those too, for when I run out of clothesline, or when I need to dry my Lycra in the house on a wet or cold day. But they don't support a wool garment enough to keep it from stretching into weird shapes, even if I lay a single garment over the top rails.

[Crankin]

I just use a regular drying rack for my wool; I find that hanging my Shaks, etc. doesn't seem to ruin the shape of them. Once in awhile I will lay them flat on top of the washer, but that takes up a lot of space. Yeah, I can hear my mother yelling at me, as she was a true wool weenie, knitting all of her sweaters by hand.
We did have to get a bigger drying rack for all of the wool and lycra that can't be put in the dryer.

[Catrin]

I just use a regular drying rack for my wool; I find that hanging my Shaks, etc. doesn't seem to ruin the shape of them. Once in awhile I will lay them flat on top of the washer, but that takes up a lot of space. Yeah, I can hear my mother yelling at me, as she was a true wool weenie, knitting all of her sweaters by hand.
We did have to get a bigger drying rack for all of the wool and lycra that can't be put in the dryer.

I really don't have the extra floor space in my apt. for a dedicated drying rack I typically don't wash more than one piece of wool at a time, so I've the top of my washer, and the top of the dryer is another option. I have a rack in my little utility closet where my washer/dryer are so I can just hang my lycra on a hanger and it dries pretty quickly. I've done it this way all along and it doesn't appear to stretch the lycra or anything. I do dry my shorts inside-out so the padding will be as exposed as possible.

[malkin]

Don't get me wrong--drying racks don't get a 'dedicated space' in our 1000 sq ft of paradise! They only come out when they have work to do; the rest of the time they are folded and hanging high on the wall!

I don't have room to dry anything flat if it is too big to go on top of the rack.

That 'too wet to hang' problem went away when we got a Miele washer with a spin cycle that really spins much more of the water out than the cheepie washer that came in this condo.

As for putting a wash friendly jersey in the washer in a cold cycle, it should be fine. It is probably good to keep the zipper zipped in the wash so it is only one weapon rather than two. I also go a little overboard with laundry (lingerie) bags for lots of our wool items so that the base layers don't get as beaten up, but it is probably not necessary.

[Grog]

Wait a minute,

LPH, where did you get those beautiful dresses? They are amazing!!

[lph]

Wait a minute,

LPH, where did you get those beautiful dresses? They are amazing!!

I'm taking a break from them now to wear the lovely IBEX DRESS REDRHODIE JUST SENT ME! whoop! :D

:) A Norwegian designer called Mette Møller. She makes lovely, slightly 50's-ish stuff, not cheap but good quality. Web page here (about 6.5 NOK to the dollar):
www.mettemoller.no

If anyone loves her stuff and is brave enough to spring for a long-distance shopping exchange, I'm getting real curious about those Ibex Shaks you all are raving about... ;)

[jessmarimba]

Which dress did she send you? I love how (most of) their dresses look.

[lph]

Indie (I think?) - black/dark grey, high waist, pockets (I actually get hips with these) and a hood. Beeyoootiful!

[GLC1968]

I'm taking a break from them now to wear the lovely IBEX DRESS REDRHODIE JUST SENT ME! whoop! :D

:) A Norwegian designer called Mette Møller. She makes lovely, slightly 50's-ish stuff, not cheap but good quality. Web page here (about 6.5 NOK to the dollar):
www.mettemoller.no

If anyone loves her stuff and is brave enough to spring for a long-distance shopping exchange, I'm getting real curious about those Ibex Shaks you all are raving about... ;)


OMG - her stuff is adorable! I'm flipping through it and drooling on my keyboard. I particularly love the coats! I have no idea what the materials are as I can't read any of the text, but wow...gorgeous. Too bad most if it is out of my price range considering that I spend most of my time on a farm. :o The next time I need a winter coat, I'm splurging on one of hers though....

[redrhodie]

I just ordered these: http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodIC_5B52.html. I'm hoping to use them as an outer layer over my knickers on the bike. I'll review soon!

Thanks for the free shipping TE!

[malkin]

... I have no idea what the materials are as I can't read any of the text...

Click on the tiny Union Jack (upper right) and you will magically be able to read the descriptions!

[jessmarimba]

It's amazing how wrong I was at guessing some of those words :)

Thanks for the hint, Malkin.

Her stuff really is gorgeous.

[Biciclista]

redrhody, let us know what you think about those knickers that's a great price!!

[malkin]

lol!
from the knickers description:

...each garment has a unique Baacode that is traceable back to the source, a sheep station in New Zealand, and through the manufacturing process...

[GLC1968]

Duh, thanks for hint, malkin! Now I can not only read it, but see the prices displayed in USD. Dangerous! I've bookmarked the site for the next time I get a bonus at work and I want to splurge. :o


And redrhodie - definitely lets us know how those kickers turn out. I assume they are chamois free? If so, I'm VERY interested myself (for biking AND running).

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I'm selling 7 of my pure merino tops...
See thread here please:
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?p=559101#post559101

[Catrin]

It's pretty! I'm sending Catrin the shorts right now, so sorry if anyone else wanted them. This happened fast!

As it turns out, the shorts I traded with Red for are just a little too large for me, or my body doesn't like the padding material - or both - but sadly I cannot wear them. However, if there is someone else who wanted to try them out let me know! I would be open to trading for something else wool, but it isn't absolutely necessary. The Ibex shorts are size medium.

[redrhodie]

As it turns out, the shorts I traded with Red for are just a little too large for me, or my body doesn't like the padding material - or both - but sadly I cannot wear them. However, if there is someone else who wanted to try them out let me know! I would be open to trading for something else wool, but it isn't absolutely necessary. The Ibex shorts are size medium.

Sorry those didn't work out for you. Like any shorts (or saddles), they either work for you or not. They were highly reviewed on Ibex and a lot of people loved them, so hopefully they will find a good home.

I love the jersey, btw. I can't wait until it's warm enough for short sleeves!

[Catrin]

Sorry those didn't work out for you. Like any shorts (or saddles), they either work for you or not. They were highly reviewed on Ibex and a lot of people loved them, so hopefully they will find a good home.

I love the jersey, btw. I can't wait until it's warm enough for short sleeves!

It is a lovely jersey, and I am glad I had two of them! The black is nice but I do like the blue better.

I am still unsure if the problem with the shorts is they are just large enough to cause the padding to chafe/itch as my body moves :eek: or if it is the actual padding material that I am sensitive to that causes the itching. Regardless they are nice shorts and I think they would be great under tights for now, or by themselves in another month for someone who can wear them

[Grog]

Oh my goodness LPH, I shouldn't have looked at that!

How is their sizing?

[lph]

;)
As far as I know their sizing is a little snug. In most clothing I'm a standard S, but I'm broad over the shoulder, upper back and upper arm, so I sometimes have trouble getting closely tailored tops to fit. I bought the Ever dress in both sleeveless and longsleeved - I could squeeze into the S, wool is forgiving, but fit much better into the M.
As maybe shows on the photo it's close but not stuck to me around the shoulder and upper torso, then flares gently out from the base of my ribs. If you're petite in the upper body you're more likely to fit the standard size.

[redrhodie]

I just ordered these: http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodIC_5B52.html. I'm hoping to use them as an outer layer over my knickers on the bike. I'll review soon!

Thanks for the free shipping TE!

Uh oh. I was about to write a preliminary rave review (since I've only just tried them on), when I discovered they have a hole. I'm not sure what to do: send them back and get a replacement pair, keep them and stitch up the hole, send them back and get something else. The hole is tiny, and on the back thigh.

I really like the fit and weight of the fabric, but I'm not sure if they're durable enough to ride in. I'd still keep them even if I couldn't ride in them, and even though I don't run, because the fit and fabric are so nice. I think the hole might be a fluke defect. What to do, what to do?

[redrhodie]

So, I'm going to keep them. I wore them on the bike today, and the hole didn't change. It's tiny and seems not to be unraveling, so I'm just going to darn it. Since I'm going to be riding in them, they're going to get abused anyway. I think the hole is a random flaw in an otherwise excellent knicker.

A note on size, I got med since I'm going to be wearing them mainly over knickers. I'd say if you're in between sizes, size down. I wear a M in Sheebest, and I'd go with a S in these if I were wearing them alone.

After riding in them, I like them even more. They were nice and warm, and I wasn't even aware of them. They didn't stretch out in the knees or catch on the saddle like some of my tights do, and there's no sign of pilling yet (although it was just one ride).

This is them with my new jersey (thanks, Catrin!):

[Catrin]

They look great together! I am glad the jersey worked out for you :)

Which reminds me, anyone interested in the medium Ibex shorts I got from Redhodie? If I don't hear anything in a day or two will meander over to the OTHER thread :)

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I'm selling 7 of my pure merino tops...
See thread here please:
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?p=559101#post559101

I did not get any offers to buy the whole lot together in one lump, so I'm opening up the bunch to sell individually. 6 tops of 100% merino (one has sold already). See above link in the For Sale forum. Thanks!

[jessmarimba]

Just got my Ibex FT Hoody dress!

...And it looks awful :( This dress is sooooo generous in the waist/hips that it makes me look like a cow. I'm trying to decide if I should exchange it for something else or just return it. I'm so sad, I was looking forward to it for a week.

[Grog]

Thanks Lph! It's definitely on my "must resist" list now, which is one step closer to actually ordering it!

[celticgarden]

Thought I'd pop in and say hi since you have all influenced me already! Love wool, I'm a knitter and I usually would have these conversations about skeins of yarn but now I can converse about merino bike clothes. I've been plotting my commute debut for the year and want to thank you for reminding me that wool resists odors. Can't tell you how many times I've gotten an off odor from a synthetic after a workout. Seems to be something that gets embedded in the fibers as I haven't found a detergent that eradicates it. Plus I stick with 'free' types of detergent.

Anyway, started at Goodwill last night, then moved on to TJs and found that I had missed sweater season, they were all sold off or packed away. Used a Sierra Trading coupon for a bunch of wool socks then scored a couple of merino base layer tops at Overstock. That will get me started. "Thanks" for bringing Neve to my attention! While none of those sweaters made it into my Sierra cart I will keep that brand in mind for sometime when the budget allows new work clothes (not often these days!).

I could and have (in my head anyway) wax poetic about wool in all its sheepy goodnes. Is the trend in synthetics a plot? :-)

your friend in wool,
Linda

[redrhodie]

Just got my Ibex FT Hoody dress!

...And it looks awful :( This dress is sooooo generous in the waist/hips that it makes me look like a cow. I'm trying to decide if I should exchange it for something else or just return it. I'm so sad, I was looking forward to it for a week.

I doubt you look like a cow, but I know how you feel. I found the cut of the Ibex dress (especially because of the pockets) put a lot of emphasis on my hips, and my hips don't really need any special emphasizing. :D That's why I sent mine to lph, who I knew has the perfect shape for this dress.

Maybe try one of their skirts instead. I have one that's more A line, that I wear a lot in summer.

[lph]

I was just about to boast to you, rhodie, so I'll do it here. I wore the dress to work and have gotten so many compliments on it all day, and some of the girls were really miffed that it couldn't be bought here. They all want you to send them dresses in the mail too :D

So I had to snap a photo outside the ladies room - here ya go - bad quality but I felt a bit selfconscious standing there in front of the mirror :D I love it!

[redrhodie]

It looks perfect on you! I love it.

Here it is on me. I kept this one because at least the color looks good on me. The cut just looks kinda dumpy, but I'll probably still wear it. It's a long story of why I had 2 dresses I didn't love. I'm happy it looks so good on you!

[jessmarimba]

Definitely looks much better on both of you!! I got the long-sleeved one and I think it's supposed to be looser than the 3/4 sleeve one. I was thinking about the Indie dress (or maybe the Indie 2Nicki) but I have a feeling that being small-chested won't work with the Indie dress either. I really would like a wool dress, so I guess I'll just return it and keep my eyes open for something else.

[GLC1968]

Jess - I bet the Indie cross back dress would look great on you. That's the one I got and you definitely need a smaller chest for it. Of course, it's strappy, so more summery which may not be what you are looking for....

I have the rosa hoodie which I think is the same cut at that Indie dress and I couldn't fill it out corretly (the top). Combined with the comments about the pockets on the dress, I decided to skip trying the dress even though it looks good on the model.

[PamNY]

Thrift shop score! I got a really fine, lightweight merino cardigan for $1.99. It should be a perfect layer for spring cycling when the temp drops after sunset.

Of course, this sweater cries out for pearls, so I might look ridiculous. I hope pairing it with my screaming yellow windbreaker will change the look somewhat.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I've reduced the prices on six 100% merino Ibex and SmartWool tops, plus offering free standard shipping now:
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?p=560329#post560329

thanks! :)

[jessmarimba]

I picked up at short-sleeved Smartwool jersey (Ewetopia, maybe, in chili pepper red?) for myself for Christmas and finally had the chance to wear it today - fantastic! Slightly looser than I usually go for but it was the perfect layer underneath a windbreaker. I didn't stink nearly as much as the rest of my group at the end of the ride.

And it looked awesome with the dark red trim on my bike. :)

[celticgarden]

Tried posting to this thread the other day but my reply was swallowed by the cosmos (or operator error).

To summarize, thanks for drawing my attention to wool for biking. You're right, wool is odor resistant. What's up with synthetics holding on to smells? Any way to get rid of lingering odors in synthetics?

Thought I'd try the thrift store route looking for merino for bilking but I found out sweater season is over here. Bummer. Did get 2 merino long sleeve base layer tops at Overstock.

[Biciclista]

At last! I got a Mollie Jacket (thanks Catrin) and it's that felted or boiled wool and I am finally warm enough !
I have another jacket, it's the wonderful green but it's too lightweight for me that I am thinking of selling.... (it's Medium)

[Cataboo]

There's still a black one if you want it as well ;)

BleeckerSt_Girl, you might have better luck on ebay.

[Biciclista]

I need another jacket like.... oh... never mind. LOL

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

BleeckerSt_Girl, you might have better luck on ebay.

Thanks. I did sell the two Ibex Indie tops here to TE'ers (thanks you two!), and I'll leave the others up for another week or so. Then I'll Ebay them. I too suspect they might bring more on Ebay. I thought for sure the brown Shak set would sell more than anything else, but go figure! :p
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=41630


.

[Biciclista]

I would have bought your Shak if I hadn't just bought a brown shak !

[wildeny]

Some suggestion on merino sport bra.

I searched about this and found two choices: Ibex or I/O Bio.

There's a thread a while ago, saying that I/O Bio bra is softer than Ibex.

Can someone comment about the sizing? I/O Bio bra's XS said 33, will it fit a 32?:o How about Ibex?

[OakLeaf]

I'm a 34 small B and a small Ibex is just right on me.

[GLC1968]

I'm a 34 small B and a small Ibex is just right on me.


Same here.

[jessmarimba]

I'm a 34A and I wear an XS I/O bio. Never tried Ibex.

[Catrin]

One pair of Ibex cycling shorts is looking for a new home. They have moved from Redhodie to me, but sadly there is something about the pad that my body does NOT like - it itches :eek: (I did wash them several times)

These are nice shorts and they will be nice for early spring biking for someone; they would also be nice under tights. They are free for the asking, all I ask is postage reimbursement.

[Triskeliongirl]

I'll take them Catrin. I'll PM you my info.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Happily, I sold two more tops today to another TE member. :)
That leaves just the pair of brown Shaks and the ronge SW hoody- see link in previous posts if interested. Thanks!

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I'm so looking forward to getting in my veggie garden again and starting to clean up and dig while the chilly air filters through my nice cozy wool and the sun is on my face. :p
....but I have to wait several more weeks- it's still frozen solid and still covered with ice and snow! :(

[Catrin]

The Ibex shorts have found a new home :)

Pity that I couldn't wear them. I imagine that all of their chamois are from the same material so this probably means I just can't wear their cycling shorts at all...

Oh well, they have other things that I can try. I note that Smartwool has bib shorts, and the chamois is covered with Smartwool as well. I don't know about that... Has anyone here tried them? I just noticed them at my LBS recently.

[Crankin]

I don't like the thought of a wool chamois... although I do wear the Ibex boy shorts under my tights when I hike, nordic ski, or winter run. But a wool chamois seems, ah, thicker and makes me itch thinking about it coming in contact with my delicate parts.

[Catrin]

I don't like the thought of a wool chamois... although I do wear the Ibex boy shorts under my tights when I hike, nordic ski, or winter run. But a wool chamois seems, ah, thicker and makes me itch thinking about it coming in contact with my delicate parts.

I agree - I touched the chamois at the store and it didn't seem any thicker than the pad in my PI shorts - but the surface was different - of course. Considering the cost it would not be worth the experiment - especially since the mere thought makes me itch :o

[malkin]

To me the Smartwool covered chamois is nice.

[wildeny]

Thanks for the replies from OakLeaf, GLC1968 & Triskeliongirl on the bra size.
I guess I/O's sizing is a little bit loose as compared with Ibex then.

[7rider]

Okay....please don't think me macabre....but I saw this article last night and all I could think of were the Wool Weenies! :D

Green Goodbyes in a woolen coffin: Time Magazine. (http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,2056346,00.html)

[Biciclista]

wow, that's REALLY cool!

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

That coffin looks just like a fiddle case. Wool fiddle cases would be cool too!

[Crankin]

I wonder if that would be considered "Kosher" from a religious point of view. It certainly is a natural material.

[Natasha]

Amazon has a very limited stock (size large) of Ibex Shak jerseys in black and snow for $40.49. They're great for biking, running and hiking.
Some other Ibex items at good prices too.

[moonfroggy]

amazon often has great prices on ibex especially if you wear small or extra small or one of the larger sizes. i got an ibex jersey for around 25 dollars a while back and while it is a color i normally would never ever wear i don't mind wearing it because it is so comfy and the price was great (it is pink and black and i generally do not wear pink)

[Biciclista]

the black ones are gone. I can't bear the thought of wearing white (not that I would buy large anyway) owell.
I like what i already have.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I like the white ones, but they would make me look HUGE. :cool:
I stick to my 2 black shaks. Still haven't found another shak color I like.

I sold that bunch of merino tops I listed here, by the way....EXCEPT for the pair of brown shaks which are still available if anyone wants to PM me about them.
I just seem to always wear my black ones instead.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Wool season is approaching..... :cool:

[Biciclista]

what do you mean, approaching? I wore wool on my 100k on Saturday.

[Catrin]

Wool season is approaching..... :cool:

Oh noooooooooooooooo - I love wool but that means winter is coming :eek:

[Biciclista]

here it means "I am in Seattle"

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I guess so, Mimi, since it's still way too hot and humid here for wool yet!

[GLC1968]

I'm with Mimi - I've been wearing wool all summer!

In fact, it was so cold this past weekend when camping that I had to supplement my wool with a lightweight down jacket. Oh the horror! ;)

[Crankin]

I never take my Shaks out of my closet, but I haven't worn one since May. I had had some reactions to wool in March, so hopefully the rest from it will be good for my body.
I don't mind thinking about the winter, because that means x-country skiing. But, there's plenty of summer left. September is just about the nicest month here! And despite what I thought, not being on an academic schedule is making the transition of the seasons better for me! Nothing is going to change; I am not going back to work teaching or back to grad school. I have time to enjoy riding and I don't wind down my riding until the beginning of December or when the first snow flies. I look forward to 3 more months of good riding, starting some personal training in the fall, hiking, and that very short x country ski season/snow shoeing.

[redrhodie]

I wore a ss Ibex jersey today. I also had Smartwool arm warmers in case it rained, but I didn't need them.

[Crankin]

It was cool this morning; 59 at my house. Wool would have been perfect.

[jessmarimba]

I just stopped by the Sierra Trading Post outlet on my way home from the middle of nowhere, and got a beautiful Neve boiled wool jacket, an Icebreaker full-zip long-sleeved top, and a pair of smartwool socks. I'm ready for wool season!

[Juliegoddess]

OMG, this is tooooo funny!!!! I say this only because I am a fiber artist, and I am SURROUNDED by WOOL every single day! It's not like you ladies are talking about, though...it's raw, unprocessed wool that I dye, spin into yarn, and then do all sorts of knitterly things with. In the fiber world, we call it "wool porn"!!

Over the next couple days, I'll be getting a fleece from a sheep named "Lambchop"...I got his fleece last year, and will be getting it again this year. It's the kind of wool that you just can sit and fondle; get your fingers covered in lanolin...marrrrrvelous! Here's a little "wool porn" for you all to enjoy!

Hand-Dyed Combed Merino and Corriedale:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1218/5104960348_8c3d7911ab.jpg
And here is "Lambchop" getting washed:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5045091466_8ed5646fa3.jpg

[jessmarimba]

Oooh you just reminded me. I was driving through - I think it was Hill City, SD? - and I see a sign on a store for "Wool and More." Turned out to be a combination everything-wool/antiques shop. They had yarn and hats and sweaters and blankets and wool insoles for shoes...and then cool old stuff that wasn't overpriced.

It would be my favorite place in the world if it wasn't 6 hours away :)

[Juliegoddess]

Oooh you just reminded me. I was driving through - I think it was Hill City, SD? - and I see a sign on a store for "Wool and More." Turned out to be a combination everything-wool/antiques shop. They had yarn and hats and sweaters and blankets and wool insoles for shoes...and then cool old stuff that wasn't overpriced.

It would be my favorite place in the world if it wasn't 6 hours away :)

I love those kinds of places! So yeah, I'm a "wool weenie" too...and I really want to design a cycling sweater to-die-for!

Bottom line: wool is an AMAZING fiber. There is nothing like it, man-made or other wise. I would like to see some wool/lycra blends, though...to increase shape retention and "bounce-back" after stretching.

[jessmarimba]

Wore my new Icebreaker GT260 rapid zip thru top yesterday to hike Grays and Torreys peaks. We started the hike at 11,280 feet (I think), at 5 am, frost on the trees, everything. Stopped for breakfast around 6:30, 42 degrees. No one checked the summit temps that I heard, but it was a little windy and fairly cool but the sun felt great.

It was absolutely the best layer I could've chosen. Sleeves were long enough, hem is VERY long (particularly for icebreaker) so it kept from riding up under my pack. Layered it over an icebreaker t-shirt and an i/o bio sports bra (anyone see a trend here?) :) I started out with a windproof shell at the bottom that I quickly ditched, and pretty much just kept this on until we were close to the cars again and it was 60-something out.

Here's a summit photo that I didn't know was being taken, sporting my new awesome top!

13616

[kelownagirl]

Hello ladies, I'm sure one of you has the answer for me.

Erik just got a brand new Merino wool Icebreaker shirt in his race packet but he dropped it on the bike and it has fresh grease all down one side. It is a red, IcebreakerGT 150 ultralite in case that matters.

When I get grease on a cotton shirt, I just rub some butter or lard into it (who has lard anymore??) until the black grease disappears, then I hand wash it with warm/hot water and soap, then throw it in the washer and the grease is always gone without any stain (not even from the butter), but I'm afraid to try that with Merino wool.

So - does anyone have a tried and true method to remove fresh bike grease?

Thank you!!!

[Grog]

Erik just got a brand new Merino wool Icebreaker shirt in his race packet but he dropped it on the bike and it has fresh grease all down one side. It is a red, IcebreakerGT 150 ultralite in case that matters.


Oh my!!! I unfortunately have no advice whatsoever, but that is one nice jersey, and the fabric is indeed ultralight.

I hope you find a solution soon.

[malkin]

Don't worry. Sheep love grease so much that they make their own (lanolin).

Just remember no heat and agitation at the same time. Either one is ok on its own, but not at the same time.

Extra emphasis: go ahead and run hot water through the wool, but do not swish it around until it is cool.

You can rub the wool energetically, but ONLY in cold water.

[Owlie]

OMG, this is tooooo funny!!!! I say this only because I am a fiber artist, and I am SURROUNDED by WOOL every single day! It's not like you ladies are talking about, though...it's raw, unprocessed wool that I dye, spin into yarn, and then do all sorts of knitterly things with. In the fiber world, we call it "wool porn"!!

Over the next couple days, I'll be getting a fleece from a sheep named "Lambchop"...I got his fleece last year, and will be getting it again this year. It's the kind of wool that you just can sit and fondle; get your fingers covered in lanolin...marrrrrvelous! Here's a little "wool porn" for you all to enjoy!

Hand-Dyed Combed Merino and Corriedale:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1218/5104960348_8c3d7911ab.jpg
And here is "Lambchop" getting washed:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5045091466_8ed5646fa3.jpg

Ooh, pretty! *Imagines pretty socks and things*

This morning has made me decide that there needs to be more wool in my life. Now, if I could afford the stuff, it'll be awesome. While I'm sure I'll get my money's worth out of it--I can wear the stuff from around September until June both on and off the bike, and it means I might be able to turn the thermostat down a bit--it's not cheap and I'm living on a grad student budget.

Keeping my eye on sales...

On another note: I have some lovely hand-knit wool socks that I made myself. Fraternal twins, but very pretty colors. They're not wash-resistant enough for daily wear or for the bike.

[Biciclista]

Owlie, there's lots of wool for sale at second hand stores.

[Becky]

I just picked up the nicest short-sleeve sweater in luscious blackberry-colored merino wool. I found it at Marshalls for an unbelieveable $20....!

[Owlie]

Owlie, there's lots of wool for sale at second hand stores.

I need to figure out where these are in relation to me! I'm just really picky when it comes to wool, because much of it irritates the back of my neck, and in the case of hats, my forehead.

[bmccasland]

I need to figure out where these are in relation to me! I'm just really picky when it comes to wool, because much of it irritates the back of my neck, and in the case of hats, my forehead.

My sister is allergic to sheep wool, but not goat, rabbit, alpaca, or camel. In other words, the lesser expensive wools, but she can wear the expensive ones!

[Owlie]

My sister is allergic to sheep wool, but not goat, rabbit, alpaca, or camel. In other words, the lesser expensive wools, but she can wear the expensive ones!

Isn't that always how it works? :rolleyes: I can wear merino, some alpaca and cashmere (the expensive stuff), but mohair, most non-merino wool, cheaper cashmere and angora make me itch like crazy. I have to pick the guard hairs out of alpaca!

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I just pulled out my cozy wool stretchy Ibex long johns for sleeping in again....it's wool season!

[Crankin]

I just bought a (regular, not for riding) sweater that I really need to wear to something tonight. It's one of those open type sweaters, that looks like a jacket and it's nice and short. It's a combo of wool, alpaca, and nylon. I think it may have to go back. I can wear it with long sleeves, but tonight I have a 3/4 sleeve dress. It was expensive, but I love it :mad:. Just in case, I also bought a long length merino sweater that will match, but is not as flattering, though it was cheaper. Grrr.
I had a lot of issues with itchiness, hives, and my Shaks late last winter. I wore my Shak on Friday and was OK, but I could "feel" it. I am hoping this doesn't start again. I have too much invested in the wool weenies.

[Biciclista]

today was a wool day for sure. Dawn was below 60 degrees and pouring. I put on my merino long sleeved teeshirt, my merino jersey on top of that, my ibex fiti knickers, my little ibex hat and my smartwool kneesocks. I wore my showers pass raincoat for a while, but got too hot. rode the whole day rain and no rain (note I did not mention sun) in wool. I got chilled on a long stop but the rest of the ride i did just fine.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

The past two mornings have been 40F when we started out walking to town for our weekend breakfasts...:eek: Breaking out the wool for sure!

[Biciclista]

wow, that's cold!!!

[Crankin]

It's 44 as I write this. Delaying any outdoor exercise until at least 9 AM.

[GLC1968]

It was 48F when we left for our run on Friday. It was my first run of the season in wool! I wore my ultra light smartwool jersey and after the first couple of chilly minutes, it was the perfect choice.

Yay for wool running season!!

[moonfroggy]

so whee can i buy wool fabric like the stuff ibex uses so i ca sew my own wool clothes?

i love ibex clothes and now i am getting into sewing and sewing a lot of my own clothes and i am feeling brave enough and adventurous enough to try and sew wool shirts and leggings.

[Catrin]

I can't advise you on sewing, but when I was still doing a lot of needlework I found some nice wool fabric that I used for surface embroidery from a company that specialized in period reenactments. They sent me a swatch so I could look at it before I ordered a couple of yards of it.

I am sure you will find more traditional sources, but wanted to mention this as an option. Sounds like fun!

[Crankin]

I may have made this comment last year on Rosh Hashanah, but yesterday, during the service, when the rabbi was asking all of the participants who were going to blow a shofar what kind of animals the horn came from, when one participant said, "Ibex," DH and I looked at each other and started laughing.
I think this is called a cognitive distortion. No one else around us in the synagogue was laughing...
I guess this means I am really a wool weenie.

[Biciclista]

Crankin, that's really cute! have a good year!

[malkin]

Happy New Year!

Thanks for that laugh!

[Jolt]

If any of you are near or going to be anywhere near Brunswick, ME--check out the Maine Woolens outlet store!! They have really nice washable wool blankets made right here in Maine (and some non-wool ones too, and a few other things) and there are some great deals. They sell online too, but the prices are high online--much better in the store, especially the 50% off bin. I went today and picked up the following for less than $150 total: one full-size blanket, one twin blanket (pastel pink and off white, by far NOT my favorite color scheme but they were 50% off and it will be a nice warm emergency blanket to keep in my car), one nice thick throw, and two recycled-fiber beach/picnic/camping blankets (one is going to be a gift) plus a couple of carrying straps for the beach blankets and an AMC guide to various outdoor trips in Maine. Not a bad haul, definitely worth the trip!

[KnottedYet]

Oh, MY!!!!!

Smartwool is making a footless wool tight! http://www.titlenine.com/product/735119.do?kwd=smartwool+tights

Must have! Must order! SusanO, sell these on TE! PDQ! S'il vous plait!

I love footless tights. I love that I can wear them a couple times between washes without stinky-foot syndrome. I love that I can wear socks over them without having the "two layer slip-n-slide" effect inside my boots. I love that I can use them as longjohns, sleep in them, walk around the house in them. I love that the heels and toes don't wear thin and sprout holes (since they don't have feets) and cut their lives short. I love that I can wear them with a skirt and flip-flops.

Seriously, if TE sold these I'd be ordering them right now.

[goldfinch]

Oh, MY!!!!!

Smartwool is making a footless wool tight! http://www.titlenine.com/product/735119.do?kwd=smartwool+tights

Must have! Must order! SusanO, sell these on TE! PDQ! S'il vous plait!

I love footless tights. I love that I can wear them a couple times between washes without stinky-foot syndrome. I love that I can wear socks over them without having the "two layer slip-n-slide" effect inside my boots. I love that I can use them as longjohns, sleep in them, walk around the house in them. I love that the heels and toes don't wear thin and sprout holes (since they don't have feets) and cut their lives short. I love that I can wear them with a skirt and flip-flops.

Seriously, if TE sold these I'd be ordering them right now.

That isn't a bad price either for wool and it is nice to see colors other than black. I admit that I use wool long underwear like tights.

[OakLeaf]

I wonder what the difference is between those and these (http://www.rei.com/product/785385/smartwool-midweight-long-underwear-bottoms-wool-womens), besides $38. The "long underwear" wears like leggings or tights and they're definitely lighter weight than SW "midweight" tops. (That's actually my only complaint about them, the fabric is so thin that I don't dare wear them on the bike.) I looooooove mine.


ETA: hmmmmmmmmm, REI fall sale, I might need another pair of those....

[KnottedYet]

I wear my Ibex long johns from waaaay back (when they made them dense and tough) on the bike under a pair of cargo shorts. But they don't work as tights with a skirt. (to get the same quality as the old Ibex, you have to check out Jones Wares)

It looks like the Smartwool tights are the same light weight as regular tights (gauging by the expansion of the stitching in the model photos). That's what I need for work, and I'll happily pay $10 more for a pair of wool leggings than for a pair of whatever-content leggings from Hue.

Smartwool has never let me down for socks, so I'm willing to trust them for tights/leggings.

I didn't catch if they were made in USA or not. I guess I'd better go back and check.

ETA: I cannot find info about where they are made and who is gainfully employed making them, so I must assume for the nonce that they are not made in the USA. Much of Smartwool and Wigwam *are* made in USA, so I hope to find out more after my little jaunt to Title 9 tomorrow...

[Blueberry]

I didn't catch if they were made in USA or not. I guess I'd better go back and check.

ETA: I cannot find info about where they are made and who is gainfully employed making them, so I must assume for the nonce that they are not made in the USA. Much of Smartwool and Wigwam *are* made in USA, so I hope to find out more after my little jaunt to Title 9 tomorrow...

Smartwool's website says "Knit in Korea" under features:(

[KnottedYet]

Smartwool's website says "Knit in Korea" under features:(

Well, that's a bummer.

I have an uncle who was a manager at a wool-carpet factory, and their entire shop was shut down and moved overseas. I'm a little cranky about the loss of US manufacturing.

It's bloody hard to find anything made in the USA any more. And we wonder why we have so few jobs and why our economy sucks? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKv6RcXa2UI

Too bad Wigwam doesn't make tights: http://www.wigwam.com/AboutUs.aspx

Guess I'll be sticking with Hue (made in USA) non-wool footless tights... until my patriotic pipe-dreams collapse under the siren-song of wool lust.

[Trek420]

Guess I'll be sticking with Hue (made in USA) non-wool footless tights... until my patriotic pipe-dreams collapse under the siren-song of wool lust.

I dunno, of the four companies it says 95% of No Nonsense is made in USA, 75% of Burlington products. The others: HUE, CALVIN KLEIN & JOCKEY no such claim so probably all imported. But Wigwam's made here. Guess I'll review it. ;)

[OakLeaf]

Yeah, the SW long bottoms are from China. Ibex bottoms just don't fit me, unfortunately. :( Too long and too un-curvy. Korea is some better, I suppose. www.productsofslavery.org (although that site has some obvious omissions, so take it with a grain of salt)

[KnottedYet]

I'm very afraid Jones Wares is gonna go under.

They've had limited supplies of US made wooly goodness for MONTHS now. http://www.joneswares.com/

[NbyNW]

Smartwool manufactures stuff EVERYWHERE. You have to look at the individual product to see if it's coming from a country you feel comfortable buying from.

[OakLeaf]

I'm very afraid Jones Wares is gonna go under.

They've had limited supplies of US made wooly goodness for MONTHS now. http://www.joneswares.com/

Oh man, why hadn't I seen those before??? Do they run true to size?

My Ibex Woolies tank is my favorite thing in my entire wardrobe, and I hadn't decided whether to be really really bummed that they don't sell those any more, or let it go because it was from China ... and that Jonesware Sprint tank looks just like it. Must. Have.

[Crankin]

That's too bad, if it's true. JonesWares has been touted as a successful local business around here. I had them make a pair of "semi-custom" wool pants for me, by bringing up the hem an inch and adjusting the waist measurement. I was squarely between an x small and a small and for 10.00, this was the best $ spent. I wear these pants x country skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, and even for a casual errand ride, with an ankle strap around the bottom. They are nice enough to go "out" to eat or other stuff, too.
I really can't wear Ibex bottoms, either. DH bought me a pair of wool/windproof pants years ago, and because they have a gathered ankle, I can adjust enough, so they are not too long. Otherwise, the smalls are way too long on me and I can't get the x-smalls over my hips.

[OakLeaf]

I could wish JonesWares specified their fiber and fabric sources, though... but I'm taking a chance on that tank. From what you said, Crankin, following their size chart and going one size up from Ibex should be just right.

[Tokie]

In my sock drawer - which has many wool socks. Nearby is my Shak, 2 ibex sweaters, 2 ibex skirts and a cashmere sweater. and more wool socks. What should I do? Will washing take care of this problem? I read on Martha Stewart that you should wrap items airtight in plastic wrap and freeze for a few days/thaw/ and refreeze to kill moths. I did that a year ago when I brought home some of my mother's sweaters that did have moth damage then I repaired them and washed them. Any suggestions? Do I need to clean out the armoire entirely as well? Thanks for any advice! tokie

[OakLeaf]

Eeek, I don't have any advice for you Tokie, but here's a link (http://www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/ip/ip50/ip50.pdf) that both validates the freezing method (72 hours at 0°F, thaw without removing from the plastic and repeat) and tells you how to identify clothes moths. Let's hope the moth in your drawer was some random other species that just happened to get in there.

Related: what's everyone's favorite source for darning yarn?

Unrelated: long sleeve Ibex midweight crews half price (http://shop.ibex.com/W-Limited-Edition-LS-Crew) in black or white. Men's and women's both ... I'm getting one for me and one for DH's birthday. :)

[OakLeaf]

Got the JonesWares tank. Excellent service. :)

Fit notes: It's as long as the discontinued Ibex tank, but the arm holes are bigger. I think Medium is definitely the right size for me, but as compared to the small Ibex tank, it's bigger in the shoulders. So overall it fits looser across the shoulder area.

I'd shave maybe an inch off the measurements in their size chart. Their size chart puts me smack in the middle of Medium; in actuality I'd say I'm on the line (as with most brands :rolleyes:).

[Blueberry]

Ibex. SOCKS!!!!!!!!

Hope TE will have them soon - but until then - 25% off this week..... (http://shop.ibex.com/specials/ibex-socks.html?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Image+-+Three+Colors%2C+Three+Styles&utm_content=carrieanne%40alumni.duke.edu&utm_campaign=Socks+Launch)

[sgtiger]

I so want to try the Ibex socks, but I've spent my pocket money for the month. Boo:( Maybe Santa will bring me some.....

[Antaresia]

This is my first winter cycling, and I'm getting cold. I just did a search for "wool" to see what the form thought, and this popped up. It didn't take long, I now have 3 items in my cart at Smartwool and I'm going to MEC Thursday to try and get merino leggings.

I NEVER thought I'd see the day where I'd buy a $20 pair of socks.

[Jolt]

I stopped by a local alpaca farm on Sunday...got a little carried away shopping but they had some great stuff (and they were having a big sale). I got a pair of "Alpaca Extreme" socks, a hat and a really nice sweater that will be great for the winter. I wish I could upload pictures from my phone...the lady at the shop let one of the alpacas in to wander around (there's a door connecting the barn to the shop), and it was hilarious!

[jessmarimba]

I had a 35% off coupon for STP the other day so I splurged and bought a new boiled-wool jacket from Neve. It showed up today (I think I ordered it less than 48 hours ago!) and I'm in LOOOVE. All of the reviews said it the arms were too thin and too long and the jacket was suited for "aliens." Well, from the review details, I took a wager that I might be that alien and ta-da, it fits beautifully! The sleeves even cover my gumby arms all the way over my wrists! All that, at $200 off. For once I'm glad to be so oddly proportioned.

Very little that Neve makes fits me (and I have an XS sweater I'll be selling here shortly. Sleeves are too short! I loved it so much I bought it anyway but I've had it 2 years and worn it once).

[OakLeaf]

Ibex Indie long johns $42 (http://shop.ibex.com/W-Indie-Bottoms?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Image+-+http%3A%2F%2Fshop.ibex.com%2FW-Indie-Bottoms&utm_content=susanjhaas%40earthlink.net&utm_campaign=Black+Friday+2011++-+Select+Indies+40%25+off)

Sale goes on all weekend, for those who observe Buy Nothing Day (http://www.buynothingday.org/faq.html).

[jessmarimba]

Icebreaker has 30% off all black items. Or something like that.

Still too expensive for me but I thought I'd pass it on! Gonna check out TE's sale now...

[Selkie]

Icebreaker has 30% off all black items. Or something like that.

Still too expensive for me but I thought I'd pass it on! Gonna check out TE's sale now...

I'd had been waiting for Icebreaker tops to go on sale before giving them a try and your post "enabled" my purchase. I got two of the Oasis Crewes--black--for 30% off. These are as nice as my Patagonia merino tops.

My only beef was the shipping time, but I went with the free shipping option (always slower).

I'll be adding more Icebreaker pieces to my wool collection. :-)

Thank you, Jess, for posting about the sale. :)

[jessmarimba]

Hurray! So glad you found something :)

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Well, after wearing my Smartwool merino thin soft black baselayer crew tops for several years now, like about 60 days a year each and many washings, they finally have begun to get enough tiny wear holes to relegate them to 'sleeping tops'. I finally broke down and ordered several replacements through TE today, with free shipping. They've proven their worth in my wardrobe over the years. :p

[pll]

I stopped by a local alpaca farm on Sunday...got a little carried away shopping but they had some great stuff (and they were having a big sale). I got a pair of "Alpaca Extreme" socks, a hat and a really nice sweater that will be great for the winter. I wish I could upload pictures from my phone...the lady at the shop let one of the alpacas in to wander around (there's a door connecting the barn to the shop), and it was hilarious!

Too funny. Alpacas in Maine, mingling with lobsters? They live in the Andes... Be careful, they are consummate spitters.

[tealtreak]

The Twelve Principles of WoolWeenies:*

1. We admitted we were powerless over wool.

2. Came to believe that wool could restore us to sanity.

3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of wool as we understood it.

4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of our wardrobe.

5. Admitted to WoolWeenies, to ourselves, and to another TE members the exact nature of our wool needs.

6. Were entirely ready to have wool remove all our defects of layering.

7. Humbly asked wool to remove our polyester odor annoyances.

8. Made a list of all wool items we had ripped, and became willing to mend them all.

9. Made direct mends to such wool items wherever possible, except when to do so would fray them further.

10. Continued to take wardobe inventory and when we were running low promptly bought more wool.

11. Sought through websearches and discounts to improve our conscious contact with wool, as we understood it, seeking only knowledge of wool's will for us and the budget to carry that out.

12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of wearing wool, we tried to carry this message to other woolweenies, and to wear wool in all our activities.




*(with apologies and a respectful nod to AA...) ;)
love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My all time fav "smartwool" source is Marshalls.........but it is once a year and no color choice- don't care for half price on my college kid budget!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jolt]

For anyone else in Maine, Reny's has some "Minus 33" wool baselayers on sale right now as well as Wigwam merino socks buy 3 get 1 free (and the socks are made in the USA to boot). There were also some merino zip-neck sweaters that looked nice but of course, they were out of the small sizes (at least at the store in Wells).

[Crankin]

I guess no one is buying/thinking about wool, since it's been so mild out?

[Biciclista]

Oh Crankin, no that is NOT true. I sold two paintings over the holiday and decided to splurge; and buy Ibex that was (gasp) NOT on sale. I bought this:

https://ibex-clothing.s3.amazonaws.com/productimages/med/198_2682.jpg

It's a little lighter than I hoped, but it's beautiful. And, btw, it's freezing here today.

[Crankin]

That's really pretty.
Yea, I think our "warm" winter is coming to an end. I was going to do a group ride at 10 AM today, but it was still in the 20s. So, I think I am pretty much done with the outdoor riding for about 6-8 weeks.
I went to go to a step class, wearing my Teko wool socks (just to keep this on wool) and I had the time wrong; the class had started a half hour earlier than I thought. So, I did the elliptical for 30 minutes and now I am going to get fully wooled up and go for a hike.
Anything to avoid my paperwork.

[Biciclista]

you know, I wear wool socks almost all year round! ( for a week or three in the summer I don't)

[jobob]

I wear wool socks all the time.

For cycling, in the summertime I wear very thin smartwool crew socks or anklets (which smartwool apparently doesn't make anymore, grrr), and in winter, I generally wear those same thin wool socks under a slightly thicker pair. When I use two layers of wool socks I'll wear my winter biking shoes, which are a bit large for me otherwise, or my Keen sandals.

Off bike I'm almost always wearing some sort of wool socks, mostly smartwool, I have a drawer full :o

Very nice jacket, Mimi.

[nscrbug]

Since we're on the topic of wool socks...do white wool socks exist? I've seen black, grey, and other assorted colors but never white...or maybe I'm just not looking in the right place. In the summertime, just for kickin' around...I wear lightweight white mini crew socks (cheap ones from Hanes)...but I'd consider wearing wool if I could only find them in white. Anyone know if such a thing exists out there?

Linda

[jessmarimba]

Since we're on the topic of wool socks...do white wool socks exist? I've seen black, grey, and other assorted colors but never white...or maybe I'm just not looking in the right place. In the summertime, just for kickin' around...I wear lightweight white mini crew socks (cheap ones from Hanes)...but I'd consider wearing wool if I could only find them in white. Anyone know if such a thing exists out there?

Linda

No idea. I never wear white socks. I'm sure SOMEONE must make them, though they may be marketed to guys.

I'm wearing a pair of alice + olivia tights/leggings and a wool skirt today. The leggins are "designer" but merino (thanks to TJ Maxx, I would NEVER have paid $150 for them!!). I'm warmer in this 20F weather and snow than I would have been in jeans. Plus I knew if the car got stuck I'd be more likely to get help in a skirt.

[Crankin]

I've never heard of that brand.
I am wearing the Terry "tunic" dress. It's not merino, but it's some kind of wool blend with lycra that is supposed to be non-itchy. I took it out of the bag and felt it, and put it away to return. It felt itchy. But today, I actually tried it on and it's OK. The arms feel just a bit weird/lightly scratchy, but even the lightest weight Smart Wool does on me, too. The body is fine. This dress is supposed to be one you can wear on a bike, with tights or capris underneath, but I bought it just to wear to work, as it's loose on the bottom and has 3 zippered pockets, which is good for when I work with little kids.
I think, though, that by the time it got warm enough for me to wear this on a bike, it would be too warm... I don't know what kind of jacket I would wear. Certainly not my yellow wind jacket or my Gore wind stopper. Unless I buy one of those 300.00 urban cycling jackets that look gorgeous but not necessary.

[OakLeaf]

Plain white? I've got some off-white SW socks with pastel trim and some Teko socks that are true white but with bolder trim.

And I wear wool socks year round too. Anything else gives me blisters when I run.

[goldfinch]

REI used to have white merino wool "sock liners." Right now it looks like they only have black.

EDIT: here are some white wool sock liners by Smartwool off of Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/SmartWool-Liner-Sock-by/dp/B0000DYND8

Mimi, that sweater is gorgeous. I have lust in my heart.

[skhill]

Since we're on the topic of wool socks...do white wool socks exist? I've seen black, grey, and other assorted colors but never white...or maybe I'm just not looking in the right place. In the summertime, just for kickin' around...I wear lightweight white mini crew socks (cheap ones from Hanes)...but I'd consider wearing wool if I could only find them in white. Anyone know if such a thing exists out there?

Linda

I have several pairs of white wool socks-- but they're all hand-knit. Got some white sock yarn (marketed for home-dying) dirt cheap once, and used it all up.

[OakLeaf]

Zappos has some Fox River (USA made) white sock liners (http://www.zappos.com/fox-river-merino-wool-light-weight-sock-liner-3-pair-pack-white). Fox River's own site doesn't list those in white any more, though. And here's a Google shopping search (https://encrypted.google.com/search?q=white+merino+socks&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#q=white+merino+socks&hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=GHo&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&tbm=shop&prmd=imvns&ei=Nh8OT9-7HM3DgAeVm_DGBw&sa=N&num=20&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&fp=236b13d3f70338e&biw=1440&bih=713).

[GLC1968]

I'm a year-round wool sock wearer - at least for athletics. (I don't wear socks for non-athletic shoes unless its REALLY cold). I have about 10 pair of the smartwool PhD ultra light anklets that I always wear running or cycling in the summer. They do a great job of regulating heat and foot sweat for me. ;)

I was on a hunt for white wool t-shirts or tanks for awhile because I was always wearing white for layering and my cotton t's left me chilled in the winter. I asked at the Icebreaker store and they told me that they shy away from white yarns because they have to be made that way using bleach which is so bad for the environment. I don't know if that's why you rarely see pure white wool from other brands or not, but I took her word for it and stopped searching.

[malkin]

Search "wool socks" on TE--the shopping TE--there are a bunch white choices!

[Biciclista]

Ibex appears to have everything on sale 50% off with coupon VIPEARLY through January 31st.

[GLC1968]

Ibex appears to have everything on sale 50% off with coupon VIPEARLY through January 31st.

Thanks for posting this...you just cost me $150! ;) Actually, I've been wanting to try the FT dress, so now I have an excuse.

Woohoo...new wool on it's way!

[goldfinch]

Okay, I am getting ready for a big Ibex order as I am a smaller size than all my old Ibex stuff. I can't believe that I can get my Shak light hoody for 50% off! Question--anyone ever get their knickers or shorts? Reviews?

[Biciclista]

i have a pair of the El Fito Knickers. I like them a lot but lately have been wearing knickers with POCKETS instead for my rides. Pockets are so nice.
but the El Fitos are warm and comfy for sure

[goldfinch]

I ordered the knickers and a bunch of other stuff. Of course, I blew my discretionary budget for January and into February.

Thanks Mimi!

[Selkie]

Ibex appears to have everything on sale 50% off with coupon VIPEARLY through January 31st.

Many thanks for passing the word! I've stocked up on Shaks and a new Juliet! :D

[jessmarimba]

Anyone have the Balance Sport Top and want to attest to the fit?

[OakLeaf]

It's a little tighter than my Ibex crews and zip Ts, both Woolies and Zephers. I won't wear my off white one as a yoga top, it's just too skin tight in the size I got it. The black one is less revealing so it works fine for me. But you might want to size up one.

[Owlie]

I got a Smartwool long-sleeve baselayer for Christmas. Thus far, it's seen more action off the bike than on, because the lab tech keeps the place at 60 degrees and has a fan going all day.

Hopefully I'll actually be able to try it on the bike.

On a side note, I love my Smartwool tank. I really should get a second one, because it's become my go-to trainer wear. Much more comfortable than a jersey and it doesn't end up on the floor halfway through.

[jessmarimba]

Thanks enablers :)

(and thanks, work, for starting a monthly bonus system right in time...)

[jessmarimba]

P.S. Owlie, I was thinking trainer as in person-who-trains, not bike trainer. I was definitely wondering why you ditched your clothes for a second there!

[Owlie]

p.s. Owlie, i was thinking trainer as in person-who-trains, not bike trainer. I was definitely wondering why you ditched your clothes for a second there!

lol!

[redrhodie]

I've been very bad. I got a Woolies striped crew and bottoms (which are way too long, but I'm keeping them) and an Ibex felted bag, which I LOVE. I need an intervention. The space I made in my cedar chest is gone.

[jessmarimba]

I went to the Denver Snow Show this morning (kind of awkward situation, trade show and I'm not in the business!) and was given a pair of Fits socks by a pretty cool salesguy. They're thick and merino and fantastic and I never want to take them off. Just wanted to throw the brand out there for the rest of you woolies!

I love sheep :)

[Jolt]

Ibex appears to have everything on sale 50% off with coupon VIPEARLY through January 31st.

Thanks for the tip...just ordered a new pair of Loose Tights to replace my worn-out ones, as well as a Fadeaway top, a pair of stretch liner gloves and a loden blanket.

[goldfinch]

I got my Ibex order. I love my navy blue shak lite hoodie. And it fits in the smaller size. Now the debate is whether to get ride of the old shaks I have in size large or just use them baggy. I'll probably keep them.

The t-shirt is exquisite. I recommend it.

The knickers are great too.

I was so thrilled with my order that I put in another order for arm and leg warmers. Hope that the extra small fits. I was thrilled that the free shipping is calculated on the price of the order before discount.

Now, time to stay away from shopping sites!

[wavedancer]

You are wicked, wicked people! Just ordered Juliet, Shak light 1/2 zip, Shak light hoodie. Couldn't resist at 50%!!

[Blueberry]

Just ordered DH a kingly load (4 tops + arm warmers). I'm still not buying for me until I'm closer to the size I want.

Deleted grumping about stuff that I shouldn't....

[Jolt]

Just got my order--wow that was fast! The loden blanket is amazing...I highly recommend it (I got the Deep Atlantic color). The Fadeaway top is a thinner material than I expected but I still like it (hope it holds up though; at least if it doesn't Ibex has a good return policy). That 50% off deal was great!

[Blueberry]

I'm glad to hear you say that about the blanket - I went back and ordered one last night:) It has already shipped.

Thanks, Mimi for sharing the code - that really was an AMAZING deal.

[Biciclista]

I'm glad to hear you say that about the blanket - I went back and ordered one last night:) It has already shipped.

Thanks, Mimi for sharing the code - that really was an AMAZING deal.

Ironically, I bought nothing for myself!! I did buy some merino tees for DH.

[GLC1968]

I got my order yesterday - I miss quick shipping from Ibex...it takes forever to get out here!

Anyway, the FT dress is cute, but the pockets aren't quite in the right place so they interfere with the potential of the dress to be VERY flattering. I love the length, the neckline and the bodice and sleeves though, so I might keep it anyway. I hung it front and center in my closet to stare at for a few days while I decide.

I also got a Carrie fullzip hoodie in a small and I love both the fit and the deep atlantic color. I'm actually thinking about selling all my other carrie hoodies (I have quite a few) since the mediums are no longer very flattering on me. We'll see.

I'm also thinking about ordering a new shak in a small if the discount still works... CRAP, I just saw that it was only good until yesterday. And the Ibex site is down for maintenance right now. Maybe that means a new type of sale is coming??

[Natasha]

Looks like a new sale just went up on the Ibex site with many items 50% off.

[jessmarimba]

Anyway, the FT dress is cute, but the pockets aren't quite in the right place so they interfere with the potential of the dress to be VERY flattering. I love the length, the neckline and the bodice and sleeves though, so I might keep it anyway. I hung it front and center in my closet to stare at for a few days while I decide.

I left mine hanging in the closet for MONTHS while I decided. I also at one point thought about sewing the pockets shut and just taking out the pocket material. That dress just isn't flattering, and yet they never change anything about it. I probably could've gone down at least 2 sizes if I wanted to not look shapeless, only they don't go that small. But in the end, I put it on one morning over thermal tights to volunteer at a race and decided it was comfy enough to keep. Doesn't look too bad with a warm vest over it and it's comfy sitting around at home or running errands. It'll never be the cute-apres-ski-out-on-the-town dress, though. I'm starting to give up on finding a cute winter dress.

[GLC1968]

But in the end, I put it on one morning over thermal tights to volunteer at a race and decided it was comfy enough to keep. Doesn't look too bad with a warm vest over it and it's comfy sitting around at home or running errands.

That's kind of what I was thinking. When I went to try it on, I was freezing and it felt so warm and comforting that I was more inclined to like it, despite what it looked like! It felt so cozy!

Too bad mine is black so 'lounging' in it will mean it always looks gross covered with golden dog hair. ;) It may very well be a 'throw on for casual weekend outings' dress instead of a 'try to get away with at work' dress.

[jessmarimba]

Too bad mine is black so 'lounging' in it will mean it always looks gross covered with golden dog hair. ;) It may very well be a 'throw on for casual weekend outings' dress instead of a 'try to get away with at work' dress.

Mine is purple. But I just discovered this morning that the cats know where I keep it and have been sleeping on it. So now it's purple with orange accents. Equally as lovely, really :)

[GLC1968]

Mine is purple. But I just discovered this morning that the cats know where I keep it and have been sleeping on it. So now it's purple with orange accents. Equally as lovely, really :)

LOL, cats are good about that!

I bought my husband an Ibex blanket last year in a light grey. Our cat is also light grey and he LOVES that thing more than just about any other spot in the house. So while the blanket continues to look good, users must beware. It's probably more furry than any of our animals... :rolleyes:

[Crankin]

I am finding that a lot of those "sporty" wool dresses just don't fit right, because of the pockets. I bought one of those Ibex tunics from Terry, on sale, and the pocket on one side just looks lumpy and weird. I still wear it, but I think about it all day long.
And the wool dress I bought from Terry (said it was super soft) is so itchy I can barely stand it. Too late to return. It looks nice, though.

[bmccasland]

I have to admit that one of my better purchases was a wool sheath dress I bought while I still lived in New Orleans - at Banana Republic no less! Nice teal blue, design allowances for curves, sleeveless which would have helped in N.O., and now I add a blazer or sweater.

[Crankin]

I've done OK with wool dresses from BR or J Crew. They are lined!
But sometimes, there's no lining around the yoke of the neck, and I itch from that.

[jessmarimba]

Woohoo, my Ibex order is here!

I got the Razzel top - it's the softest plushiest top I own. I love it. I'd love it even more if it was an inch or two longer so it didn't show my lower back when I sit down. But at least the sleeves are long enough!

The camisole I should've sized up even more. It'll be good as a base layer as long as it's tucked in, but I get the feeling that the hem is going to be constantly creeping up towards my waist. Though if I'd gone up another size, the chest might've been too big. Who knows. I haven't taken the tags off of that one yet, still not sure on it.

[deeaimond]

I guess this should be the best place to ask advice. I don't wear wool regularly because I live in a tropical country. But the last time I had to endure winter climes, I bought the smartwool midweight zip t long sleeve shirt in M. I loved it very much and it fit great and was very flattering and I still have it. Fast forward 2 years and I wanted to buy some more to add to what I have (for winter trips)

I ordered the lightweight V-neck long sleeve shirt in M for myself and a lightweight zip t long sleeve shirt for a friend in S. The just arrived and... Both are too big for me! the crew is huge and the zip t is S is much much wider (about 4 inches) than my old zip t in M! It does not look good at all on me. And I definitely can't give it to my friend now even though it was supposed to be her very belated christmas present.

I thought that lightweight and midweight would refer to the material thickness and not the cutting. the difference was very extreme.

What should I do now? If i return them, (i bought them off mountaingear.com) I would need to pay international postage to send them back. Or is there any way I can sell them to someone who will definitely want them? Or what should I do? keep them to wear as pyjamas in a winter clime

(on a sidenote, I have a pair of Marmot Rockstar Pants for women in L size. Anyone interested in them? I bought the wrong size coz I had cut all the labels off my old pair and just followed the measurements off the website. Turns out mine must have been the M)

[GLC1968]

deeaimond - Could you maybe sell the items on ebay? That way, the buyer can pay the shipping. I've found smartwool sizing to be all over the place, actually, so I'm not that surprised. I typically only buy smartwool in person so that I can try things on.

I wanted to post an update to my FT dress decision. I was packing for my current trip and trying to decide what to wear as I traveled from mid-range temps in Portland to warm temps in Dallas to really cold temps in Illinios (and back). I saw my dress hanging there and decided to wear that. I layered a black full zip shak over it and WOW...it looked SUPER cute! It was soft, cozy and comfy for the whole day of crazy travel and looked just as good as when I left when I finally hung it up in the hotel closet after some 17 hours of travel. I'm sooo keeping it! ;-)

Jess - if you have an Ibex shak, wear it over the dress (partially zipped) and you may decide that you like it!

[jessmarimba]

Jess - if you have an Ibex shak, wear it over the dress (partially zipped) and you may decide that you like it!

Thanks for the tip :) I actually don't own a Shak yet, I can't tell if the sleeves would be long enough! They're barely long enough on the ibex Razzel top I bought, though the dress seems ok (but I've never washed it). The one icebreaker zip top I have, the sleeves are about 2-3 inches too short. They barely come to my wrists - but they have thumbholes that I can't use.

I'm waiting on an i/o bio hoodie (that company has abnormally long sleeves on everything) that should match my dress so hopefully I'll get that cute look too :)

[jessmarimba]

Kind of an unconventional use for the FT dress, but I woke up for my group run this morning and it was 9F...and snowing. And my thermal tights and my normal cold-weather running tops were in the laundry. So I pulled on my CW-X tights with a pair of compression shorts over them (holds them up, and keeps my bum warm) and then wore the dress on top with a vest over it (and my happy wool i/o bio sports bra). Perfect amount of layers to keep me warm but not overheat! And for once, my quads weren't freezing! Plus it looked cute :) Next time I run a winter race I am definitely wearing this dress.

[wavedancer]

I love my I/O bio merino sports bra. Fits better than my ibex and they are having a sale with coupon code REVOLT50 on their website. Just ordered another sports bra, crib shirt, track pants. http://www.io-merino.com/ The coupon is good until Feb 15.

[jessmarimba]

I love my I/O bio merino sports bra. Fits better than my ibex and they are having a sale with coupon code REVOLT50 on their website. Just ordered another sports bra, crib shirt, track pants. http://www.io-merino.com/ The coupon is good until Feb 15.

Wow, I am NOT a fan of their new website. Can't find lengths on the pants anywhere, and their size chart is absurd. Really, a 37 in chest and a 31 in waist for a women's XS? (which, coincidentally, is the same size as a mens' small?!?!) Something must be lost in translation.

P.S. Thanks for the coupon though!!

P.S.S. what's the inseam on the track pants? Do you know?

[margo49]

And who exactly are these fragile anorexic teenagers in unnatural angular poses?
No way would I EVER buy from these guys!

[deeaimond]

deeaimond - Could you maybe sell the items on ebay? That way, the buyer can pay the shipping. I've found smartwool sizing to be all over the place, actually, so I'm not that surprised. I typically only buy smartwool in person so that I can try things on.

I

Yeah GLC, I might just do that. but maybe I would email them and see if they would exchange the items for me. It's next to impossible to buy smartwool here, its not exactly the target market. hahahha!

I'll just exchange them for an item that I already have so I know how it fits.

[goldfinch]

And who exactly are these fragile anorexic teenagers in unnatural angular poses?
No way would I EVER buy from these guys!

I mean, really:


http://www.io-merino.com/components/com_virtuemart/show_image_in_imgtag.php?filename=resized/t-merino-wool-baselayer-women-t-shirt-11-109-36A.jpg&newxsize=180&newysize=280&fileout=

[Catrin]

I concur, no way would I buy from them. What makes them think this is a good way to advertise?

[jessmarimba]

Well, they took off the photo of the girl modeling something - scarf? underwear? covering her boobs with just her hands.

I buy from them because their clothes fit me, unlike ibex/icebreaker/smartwool. Some of us can't be picky if we want to be warm.

[Selkie]

That picture is unfortunate (is it the shirt she's selling?). I checked the website and clearly,I am not part of their intended demographic. I'll stick with Ibex, Patagonia, and Icebreaker.

[wavedancer]

Wow, I am NOT a fan of their new website. Can't find lengths on the pants anywhere, and their size chart is absurd. Really, a 37 in chest and a 31 in waist for a women's XS? (which, coincidentally, is the same size as a mens' small?!?!) Something must be lost in translation.

P.S. Thanks for the coupon though!!

P.S.S. what's the inseam on the track pants? Do you know?

I agree, the website leaves a lot to be desired. Not sure on the inseams, I only know that the sport bra I bought from them (or S&C, perhaps) a couple of years ago is a small, so that's what I ordered. I'll let you know my thoughts on the sizing when I get them!

[redrhodie]

I left mine hanging in the closet for MONTHS while I decided. I also at one point thought about sewing the pockets shut and just taking out the pocket material. That dress just isn't flattering, and yet they never change anything about it. I probably could've gone down at least 2 sizes if I wanted to not look shapeless, only they don't go that small. But in the end, I put it on one morning over thermal tights to volunteer at a race and decided it was comfy enough to keep. Doesn't look too bad with a warm vest over it and it's comfy sitting around at home or running errands. It'll never be the cute-apres-ski-out-on-the-town dress, though. I'm starting to give up on finding a cute winter dress.

Oh, I just made an incredible discovery about my Ibex dress (I have the same issues with the pockets as you). I just happened to try it on over a wool crew, and it hangs so much better. I'm not sure why, but I'm curious if it works for you.

[wavedancer]

I agree, the website leaves a lot to be desired. Not sure on the inseams, I only know that the sport bra I bought from them (or S&C, perhaps) a couple of years ago is a small, so that's what I ordered. I'll let you know my thoughts on the sizing when I get them!
Received my I/O merino items in 4 days from Australia (faster than getting stuff from California). Very happy with the bra, crib shirt, track pants. The inseam on the small track pants is 31 1/2 inches. I'll need to do a little trimming, as usual, but they are wicked comfy! The crib shirt is lightweight, snug comfy fit for a base layer.

[jessmarimba]

The inseam on the small track pants is 31 1/2 inches. I'll need to do a little trimming, as usual, but they are wicked comfy!

Eek! Glad I didn't get them! I need about a 33-34 to not look like I'm wearing high waters. :)

I actually won the pocket hoody on ebay right when the coupon code came up, and I love it. Not great for tech stuff (no thumbholes, pockets wouldn't work to tuck it in for snowboarding or anything) but good for hiking and being warm at work!

[Trek420]

Oh no, not Jones! I hope they stay in business :(

http://www.joneswares.com/

[Blueberry]

Oh no, not Jones! I hope they stay in business :(

http://www.joneswares.com/

Wonder if there's any way to encourage them to go big?

[Trek420]

Lower right hand side:


Need to contact us?

info@joneswares.com

Maybe send them the link to this thread :confused: Signed "There are a lot of Wool Weenies out there"

[jessmarimba]

Hard to even comprehend wool in this heat, but I stopped at the LRS today and got sucked into their sale rack. Picked up an ibex U-sixty tee and Icebreaker Cascade hood dirt cheap. I was so excited I forgot to ask for our running club discount on my shoes.

[Devold]

I´m new to wool, but already love wearing it on my daily commutes and when I'm home and cold after a long days work :)

I bought 2 Devold long underpants, 2 different Devold jerseys (one to autumn, one to winter) and nice womens boxers, also Devold :) And some different Icebreaker wool socks and a wool Buff :o

Do you wash your wool gear with a wool detergent with lanolin sometimes? I hand wash my gear with special fine washing detergent. But there aren't any lanolin in it, nor other wool "protection". My gear was quite expensive and I expect long lifetime by any means ;)

Do you air your wool clothes often? Or do you wash it frequently?

I'm unfortunately one of thoose people, who perspire a great deal, no matter what shape I'm in or how long I bike. I used my wool jersey for 3-4 daily roundtrips (10 mile each) and then the wool jersey started to stink a bit. I hope that the stink will vanish in the wash. I got high hopes already :cool:

I hate hate hate synthetic clothes because of the stink :(

[goldfinch]

I wash my wool in the wash machine with other dark clothes. Cold water. Standard detergent. Most I lay out to dry. While drying it might smell a bit wooly but once it dries they smell fine. I wash wool less often than other clothes.

[Devold]

I wash my wool in the wash machine with other dark clothes. Cold water. Standard detergent. Most I lay out to dry. While drying it might smell a bit wooly but once it dries they smell fine. I wash wool less often than other clothes.

You'll ruin your wool with regular detergent. Wool doesn't tolerate enzymes! :)

[goldfinch]

You'll ruin your wool with regular detergent. Wool doesn't tolerate enzymes! :)

Interesting! So far no problems (maybe because I am very stingy with how much I use) but from Googling about I see that the issue may be a pH issue and that something like Dawn dish washing detergent is a better choice.

[Devold]

Interesting! So far no problems (maybe because I am very stingy with how much I use) but from Googling about I see that the issue may be a pH issue and that something like Dawn dish washing detergent is a better choice.

Or just detergent without enzymes and bleach. The most supermarkets carry wool detergent - it's not that expensive :)

[goldfinch]

While googling this issue I found this from rivbike.com, FWIW:

http://www.rivbike.com/kb_results.asp?ID=42

Washing and drying it
Do you think wool would have remained popular through the centuries if it disintegrated when it was washed? Do you think the laundry methods of the 1300s were gentler than a cycle in your Whirlpool? Don't make me guffaw.
The fact is, the wool we offer is easy to care for. You can take special care with it if you like, if it makes you feel good and lets you sleep better at night, but it's not entirely necessary. Following is a rough way to care for wool, and then a soft way to care for it, and they both work.
Rough
Soap: Whatever you have, but nothing with bleach in it. Water: Warm Dryer: Warm
Wool laundered this way will shrink about half a size. It won't get wrecked. We'd like to see you treat it with slightly more care, but if you can't be bothered, that's quite all right.
Soft
Soap: Kookabura (we sell it), or Ivory detergent, or pretty much any earth-friendly suds sold by hippies or in a cardboard box adorned with at least one drawing of the earth, and word such as "enviro" and "friendly" and "non-toxic" and "bio-degradable" on it. Water: Warm or cold Dryer: Air. If you want speedy drying, roll it in a towel, stomp the towel, then unroll the towel and lay it flat or hang it up or something.
The main thing is: Don't fear wool. Don't save it for special occasions. Don't look back on a life in which you were afraid to wear wool for fear of wearing it out or something.

I know myself. I probably will continue with the "rough" method. Laziness will likely rule and I will continue to use regular detergent and wash wools with my other clothes. I am thinking about my wool socks. I only wear wool socks. They have been durable washing them "rough" and I even put them in the dryer if I am especially lazy. But I might be more careful with my Ibex hoodies and other pricey stuff.

[OakLeaf]

Didn't Irulan contribute her knowledge that the "wool" detergents are no different, and no better, than "regular" (except for the g*d-awful perfumes they have)?

A couple of my inexpensive 15-year-old Duofold wool tops are disintegrating. I've read they were pretty low quality to begin with. My 25+-year-old cycling jerseys and Helly-Hansen base layer are in fine shape, though the jerseys typically only get worn and washed a dozen or so times a year, each. My Ibex and SW stuff is newer (except for the socks, anyway) so I can't say how they would hold up over decades. Not impressed with my SW toe socks, but the regular "thumbless mitten" type socks are holding up fine, and where they're showing wear, it's in the elastic, not the wool fibers.

I don't think I'd put my fine woolens in a top-loading machine, the kind with an agitator. They're totally fine in my front-loader. Extra delicate things go in a lingerie bag. Air dry all of it (my house smells like wet sheep all winter long ;)). The only thing that seems to damage them is moths and mice. :( :( - and those have nothing to do with laundry methods.

[jessmarimba]

I'm careful with the pricey stuff (and particularly careful with sports bras...those get painful if shrunk!) but wool socks just go through the normal wash/dry cycle. I have a few pairs of smartwool socks that are about 6-7 years old that are just beginning to get threadbare - but I've also run probably thousands of miles in each pair. That's a lot of rubbing. Everything besides socks gets hung up to dry.

My icebreaker stuff shrunk a bit more than the other brands so I size up with them now. Everything else has come through fine.

[Irulan]

Didn't Irulan contribute her knowledge that the "wool" detergents are no different, and no better, than "regular" (except for the g*d-awful perfumes they have)?


Yep. Use baby shampoo. It's mild, and lacks perfume and conditioners. The conditioners mask the harshness of the specialty detergents.

[Owlie]

Yep. Use baby shampoo. It's mild, and lacks perfume and conditioners. The conditioners mask the harshness of the specialty detergents.

I've always read on knitting forums that you shouldn't use baby shampoo, since it's formulated to be mild on skin rather than on hair. I've been using my shampoo (Burt's Bees) on my wool stuff (hand-knit and otherwise). All my cycling clothes get hand-washed anyway, so it's not a huge hardship.

[Crankin]

I use regular, fragrance free detergent with wool. Wool gets washed in cold water, hung to dry. The really delicate things get put in the lingerie bag, i.e. Ibex boxers, Smart wool thin base layers. Socks, too, but only so they don't get lost.
I've been wearing wool socks for about 2 weeks now, even up to 70 degrees, or a little more.

[OakLeaf]

I've been wearing wool socks for about 2 weeks now, even up to 70 degrees, or a little more.

Oh heck, I wear wool socks year round, even up to 90° which is as hot as I ran in this summer. I got rid of all the other kind. Soft and comfy, breathe nicely, don't get soggy and chafe when they're sweaty.

[GLC1968]

I wash all wool in the front loader with enviro detergent (it's what I use for all my laundry) and no softener (again, like all my laundry). The wool then gets hung to dry (like all my tech stuff) with the exception of the socks, which go in the dryer.

Honestly, the hardest thing on my wool? My belts. If I wear wool t's or l/s tops with jeans or something where I'm wearing a belt and I don't tuck in the shirt, it gets holes where it covers the belt...presumably from wear/damage. Kind of annoying but mostly my own fault. It's a pretty rare way of wearing my wool though and no, I can't really skip the belt (see any thread here about monster quads to see why ;) )

My husband uses the same washing methods as me, but he puts most of his stuff in the dryer. With the exception of looking slightly more 'lived in' than my wool stuff, his things are holding up great.(mostly ibex, smartwool and icebreaker).

Oh, and I wear wool socks all year too...at least for exercise. I don't wear socks in the summer at all unless I'm exercising though.

[SheFly]

I am no weenie, but have discovered that I love to wear wool. I am also lazy. Everything goes into the washing machine, cold water, regular detergent and then from the washer to the dryer. Yes, even the wool. I have a couple of SmartWool pieces that I LOVE that are now 5-6 years old, and look like new despite me being a heathen to them :). And yes, I wash my bike clothes this way too.

SheFly

[GLC1968]

Oh, and I actually came to this thread to let my fellow weenies know that I'm going to be offering up a bunch of wool for sale next week. Right now I'm on the road, but once I get home, I'm going to have to start seriously scaling down my closet. We are moving in a couple of weeks and I'm going from a room-sized closet (no exaggeration) to a bar that will be about 7 - 8 feet long. :eek: There will be a LOT of things that will have to go. Probably lots of cycling jerseys and jackets, too. :)

I know for sure I'll be offering up a few full zip shaks (size M). I think I have 7 or 8 and that is completely unnecessary (and a little embarrassing)!

[jessmarimba]

Anyone have a favorite wool slipper they want to recommend? After two days in the 30s here I've decided I will splurge on quality slippers this year.

[Crankin]

Or a favorite light weight merino jersey?
I have one, a PI, purchased circa 2004. I cannot wear the current PI jerseys or shorts because they don't make most of their stuff in extra small. But, this jersey was purchased before vanity sizing took over and the small fits perfectly. I have never seen another jersey like this, in any brand. It's perfect for riding in the fall and for x country skiing, with a base layer.

[Catrin]

Anyone have a favorite wool slipper they want to recommend? After two days in the 30s here I've decided I will splurge on quality slippers this year.

I've been thinking about this already, though it may be outside of my budget until December...


Or a favorite light weight merino jersey?
I have one, a PI, purchased circa 2004. I cannot wear the current PI jerseys or shorts because they don't make most of their stuff in extra small. But, this jersey was purchased before vanity sizing took over and the small fits perfectly. I have never seen another jersey like this, in any brand. It's perfect for riding in the fall and for x country skiing, with a base layer.

I love my 2 Swobo short sleeve (http://www.hucknroll.com/swobo-merino-cycling-jersey-short-sleeve-womens) merino jerseys. They fit me perfectly although they ARE a size Large! To me their sizes run pretty darn small, but it is very nice for a base layer. I am trying to find a link to one though I am afraid it's been too long since they stopped making them. If I can find something I will post the link. I have this jersey in black and blue, and they are my "go-to" fall/early spring jerseys when it is too warm to break out my long sleeve heavier smartwool jersey.

Hey Crankin, what about THIS Icebreaker SS jersey (http://www.departmentofgoods.com/icebreaker-rhythm-jersey-short-sleeve-womens)? Pretty! According to the comments this runs quite small as well.

[Rubylvr]

Too funny!! I was just trying to convince one of my riding buddies to try wool,
and she said it was too itchy for her. Poor lass. (Sorry, Downton Abbey withdrawal).
Anyhoo, Icebreaker rocks, as does Ibex. I am NEVER cold with wool next to my skinny, skin skin.
The price, on the other hand is rough to take. Crankin, "Orca" makes a nice small shirt too.

[Biciclista]

oh right on schedule this thread pops up. Wore my 18 micron wool longsleeved teeshirt for the first half of my ride yesterday, complete with I/O wool bra (from down under)
and smart wool socks.
I love my wool. All you people who think it is too itchy, keep thinking that, i don't mind.

[Owlie]

Anyone have a favorite wool slipper they want to recommend? After two days in the 30s here I've decided I will splurge on quality slippers this year.

Maybe not quite what you're asking for, but I love LL Bean's shearling-lined slippers. I bought the clogs because I used to live in a place with wood or tile floors all over and wanted the traction.

[OakLeaf]

You're making me sad ... I just had to recycle my moth-eaten ProTogs jersey. Too many holes to darn. Company's been out of business for decades. :( :(

[OakLeaf]

Anyone have a favorite wool slipper they want to recommend? After two days in the 30s here I've decided I will splurge on quality slippers this year.

I'd go with the Acorn inside-out lambskin slippers. Soooooo luxurious!

[Crankin]

I am looking for a light weight merino long sleeved jersey, not short sleeved. I have had some of the heavier ones and they are just too heavy for me now, as I seem to have more tolerance for cold riding. I prefer regular thermal if I need a heavier weight, and I wear a base layer. And I don't really want to spend 200.00. While I am not opposed to spending that much, for maybe a jacket, I won't for a jersey. I searched the net on all of my usual sites and nothing. All of the wool jerseys are heavier than the one I have, which was bought at Performance on line.

[Catrin]

I am looking for a light weight merino long sleeved jersey, not short sleeved...

I misunderstood, and good luck with your search! I've not seen a lightweight long-sleeved wool jersey but that doesn't mean there isn't anything out there. They are quite spendy, I was fortunate enough to score my long-sleeve Smartwool jersey at an end-of-winter sale at my LBS. I got it for almost half-price but still paid > $100 for it... I won't do that again but I am very thankful to have it!

[GLC1968]

I am looking for a light weight merino long sleeved jersey, not short sleeved. I have had some of the heavier ones and they are just too heavy for me now, as I seem to have more tolerance for cold riding. I prefer regular thermal if I need a heavier weight, and I wear a base layer. And I don't really want to spend 200.00. While I am not opposed to spending that much, for maybe a jacket, I won't for a jersey. I searched the net on all of my usual sites and nothing. All of the wool jerseys are heavier than the one I have, which was bought at Performance on line.

Smartwool micro light jerseys... I have three and my husband has two. They get worn more than anything else in our athletic wear closet! I have one that fits right that I wear as a base layer under other things, and I have two that are too big that I actually wear as running tops almost all year. I throw one on over a sports bra and then put on a vest and I'm good for a variety of conditions. They are super soft and have held up to washing well (I put them in the washer but hang them to dry). I'm a big fan of both icebreaker and ibex, but these are by far, my most-worn jerseys for athletic pursuits.

http://www.smartwool.com/womens/womens-nts-microweight-zip-t-1249.html

Mine is the zip version above, but TE has the crew version if that is more to your liking:
http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodSW_SN401.html

[Crankin]

I have 3 of the micro weight ones that I use for base layers, especially for x country skiing. I also wore them for running last spring.
Perhaps I will buy the zip version; the issue is that it doesn't have pockets. I find that at this time of year, with my light wool jersey, if I wear it with a Craft base layer (anything from sleeveless to long sleeved), it serves me in a wide range of temperatures. But, I guess when the pockets are added, it becomes a cycling jersey and the price gets jacked up about 100.00!

[GLC1968]

But, I guess when the pockets are added, it becomes a cycling jersey and the price gets jacked up about 100.00!

Ain't that the truth!

[Crankin]

I ordered a turquoise one from Amazon, for $65.00. I won't be able to wear it riding, unless, a) I'm riding my bike with my Tail Rider, so I don't need pockets, or B) I'm wearing my vest or jacket.
Given the temperature today, that probably won't be an issue. It definitely will be good for snow sports.

[OakLeaf]

I've got to say, wool and pockets don't mix very well (much like my featherweight synthetic Sheila Moon summer jersey). I'd personally go with a wool base layer under a synthetic jersey. Seen too many people with the sh*t in their pockets hanging down below their saddle in their wool jerseys in the rain... swinging back and forth smacking their seat packs... :rolleyes: