All About Minus33: Merino Wool Done Right
Minus33 blends old-school New England craftsmanship with modern performance. Their merino wool gear is built for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor lovers who value warmth, comfort, and sustainability all made with care in New Hampshire.
When it comes to merino wool, few companies have the heritage, heart, and hands-on experience that Minus33 brings to the trail. Based in New Hampshire, this family-run brand has been crafting high-quality merino wool garments since 2002, but their roots in textiles go back over a century. From the very beginning, their mission has been simple: make technical, durable, and comfortable wool gear that keeps outdoor lovers warm, dry, and ready for adventure.
The Legacy of Woolrich Mill, Reinvented
Minus33 was born from the historic L.W. Packard Company, a New England wool mill that supplied textiles to the U.S. military for generations. When the mill closed its doors, a small group of employees decided to carry on that legacy in a new way; by creating functional, affordable merino wool apparel for hikers, skiers, and everyday explorers.
Today, Minus33 continues to blend tradition with innovation, offering a full lineup of base layers, midlayers, socks, and accessories made with the same attention to detail that defined classic New England craftsmanship.
Why Hikers Love Minus33
Merino wool is a hiker’s dream fabric. It regulates temperature naturally, resists odor, wicks moisture, and stays warm even when damp; a true four-season fabric. Minus33 takes all of these benefits and turns them into exceptionally comfortable, trail-ready garments that don’t break the bank.
Whether you’re layering up for alpine summits or staying cozy around camp, Minus33’s merino lineup offers that perfect balance of softness, performance, and durability that seasoned backpackers swear by. Their Kodiak Fleece Hoodie and Chocorua Midweight Crew are particularly beloved among thru-hikers for their warmth and comfort without bulk.
Thoughtful Craftsmanship and Sustainability
Minus33’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond buzzwords. They work directly with Responsible Wool Standard–certified farms to ensure ethical treatment of sheep and environmental care throughout the supply chain. The brand also operates in a small New Hampshire facility where many of their garments are assembled, packed, and quality-checked by a passionate team of outdoor enthusiasts.
This hands-on approach means every piece of Minus33 gear is backed by real people who care deeply about what they make and who still live the outdoor lifestyle they design for.
Accessible Quality for Everyday Adventurers
One of the things that truly sets Minus33 apart is their approachability. They’ve managed to keep premium merino wool gear within reach for more people, offering top-tier performance at prices that are refreshingly fair. It’s the kind of brand that both new hikers and seasoned explorers can feel good supporting and wearing.
From backcountry adventures to early morning dog walks, Minus33 proves that great gear doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to work.
Favorite Minus33 Picks
If you’re looking to try Minus33 for yourself, here are a few standout pieces that have earned a permanent spot in many hikers’ gear closets.
Minus33 Kodiak Fleece Hoodie
A warm, brushed merino fleece that feels like your favorite sweatshirt but performs like a technical midlayer. Perfect for cold-weather hikes or post-summit campfires.
Minus33 Merino Wool Socks
Soft, temperature-regulating socks that stay dry and comfortable no matter the miles. A must-have for backpackers who value happy feet.
Minus33 1/4 Zip Midweight
A classic midweight base layer that excels in shoulder seasons and alpine adventures. Durable, breathable, and built to last.
This article is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
