VOICE FROM USERS 02 NIKKE wool supports hikers
Mountain environments vary greatly depending on weather conditions and altitude. For hikers who enjoy this terrain, clothing is an essential tool for protecting themselves and ensuring comfort. How are products made with “NIKKE AXIO®️,” an incredible yarn that combines the comfort of wool and the functionality of polyester, and “NIKKE CROCE®️,” a 100% wool fabric made from high-quality fine merino wool with shrink-resistant processing, evaluated by hikers?
RYOSUKE KAWATO is a long-distance hiker who has conquered numerous long trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)—a dream trail for many hikers. He’s been a long-time fan of wool products and feels that NIKKE AXIO® is well suited for long-distance hiking because it prevents sweat from cooling you down and reduces odor, meaning you don’t have to wash it as often.
Combining the comfort of wool with the functionality of polyester
NIKKE AXIO® is made by wrapping polyester filaments inside wool fiber bundles and intertwining them so that they flow neatly. This advanced technology maximizes the soft texture of the wool on the surface while keeping the functionality of the polyester inside.
Wool is a highly functional, natural fiber. The surface structure of wool fibers consists of microscopic overlapping cuticle cells known as ‘scales’ that open and close to regulate humidity levels. In addition, the wool’s crimp, the natural waviness present in the fiber, creates air pockets trapping air and providing insulation, giving it a temperature-controlling effect. This is the secret to keeping the wearer warm and dry. The fiber also possesses antibacterial properties, making it highly odor-resistant.
NIKKE AXIO® combines the functionality of wool with the toughness and moisture absorption/quick-drying properties of polyester.
NIKKE CROCE®️
CROCE® is a shrink-resistant worsted jersey material made from 100% fine merino wool, featuring a large, wavy crimp structure that gives it a lofty volume and an exceptionally soft, premium, and supple texture. Designed to maximize the natural functionality of wool, it prevents stuffiness, keeps you from getting chilled by sweat in summer, and provides warmth in winter—making it an ideal all-season material for everyday innerwear.
A gentle and soft material, made for the mountains
Comfortable wool for long mountain climbs
“I always wear merino wool when I’m in the mountains,” says KIKI as she touches the hem of her clothes, enjoying its texture.
KIKI is a model, actress, photographer, and writer who has made a name for herself across many fields. She also writes essays and travelogues that shine a light on the beauty of the mountains and has published multiple books on mountains and travel.
She began climbing seriously in 2006, and has since expanded her range of outdoor activities to include overseas mountain climbing and trail running trips, as well as backcountry skiing, with merino wool always by her side.
“I often spend long periods of time in the mountains, so I can’t take a lot of clothes with me. Merino wool is a lifesaver in those situations because it doesn’t smell. I love how comfortable it is even after wearing it for several days—I’ve been wearing merino wool for a long time.”
KIKI is a professional model, so to avoid sunburn, she wears long sleeves, even in summer. She thinks merino is great for summer when we tend to sweat a lot, as it’s easy on the skin.
“Especially in areas such as the ribs, where the fabric is tight against the skin, if it’s not merino wool, it can irritate you. For long-distance hiking, the difference in how clothes feels against your skin is especially important.”
Protects against sudden chills
When spending long periods of time in the mountains, as KIKI does, sudden chills from sweat can become a serious problem. Materials with excessively high quick-drying properties can cause sweat to cool rapidly, leading to a sudden drop in body temperature. If this happens on a ridge line with strong winds, there is a real risk of hypothermia. Additionally, backcountry skiing can involve situations where you sweat while hiking up a mountain, before immediately descending on snow-covered slopes.
“Compared to synthetic fibers, merino wool doesn’t give you the feeling of heat being drawn away from your body, even when it gets damp with sweat. Instead, it feels slightly warm. It’s an interesting material, isn’t it?”
This is thanks to the properties of merino wool, which slowly absorbs and evaporates moisture, preventing sudden chills caused by evaporated sweat.
Merino wool sticks close to you, in the mountains, on trips, and in everyday life
“Merino wool feels gentle and soft against the skin and is very functional. I discovered its benefits while hiking, and now I often wear it daily. I often wear cotton too for everyday wear, but on days when I think I’ll sweat a lot, I tend to choose merino wool. It’s also a must-have item when traveling, as I don’t like to carry many changes of clothes. It dries much faster compared to cotton, and if I’m traveling, I’ll wash it by hand and hang it up to dry and it will dry by the next morning.”
From everyday life to long-distance hiking. From base layers to socks. Merino wool has become an indispensable part of KIKI’s life. She’s currently searching for merino wool underwear that suits her. Because if it’s something that comes into close contact with her skin, she wants to use a material that she truly loves. That’s how much KIKI loves merino wool.
“I also like the texture and look of it, which somehow reminds me of silk. Doesn’t it make you feel like you’ve gained something?” she says with a smile, reaching out to enjoy the feel of the hem again.
