I have been using the Ibex Shak Jacket since last Spring and I am now officially a merino wool lover.  My visit with the folks at Ibex last winter in Salt Lake City really opened my eyes up to the wools potential, both as a technical fabric as well as it’s sustainability. There is a reason why it has been used so long as an insulator.  It works, and it works well.  It will keep you warm when it is wet, it will keep you warm when it is dry. It will help keep you cool and dry in the heat.  It has long had the reputation, in my mind, as being itchy and uncomfortable.  This reputation stemmed from my childhood using my fathers old military surplus wool blankets while camping.  Sure it was fine on my feet, but it was not until I began using a couple of different products by Ibex did the possibilities of wool as clothing open up to me.

The Shak Jacket is a perfect example of a wool midlayer done right.  The 21 micron dense-knit New Zealand Merino Wool is soft, comfortable and not a bit itchy.  It is cut perfectly; loose enough to move around in but close fitting enough to not bunch up when worn under a shell or rain jacket.  The fabric is durable, surviving dozens of uses and multiple washes while still appearing brand new.  The jacket is just warm enough to be worn alone on those nippy evenings, or to provide that additional warmth when worn as a layer on a cold night.

The Shak Jacket is one of many products that Ibex manufacturers that is certified as “Ethical Wool” by Zque.  “Zque fibre combines natural performance wool with an accreditation program that ensures environmental, social and economic sustainability, animal welfare (non-mulesed) and traceability back to the source.”  Zque is a accreditation agency committed to assuring the sustainability and ethical treatment of the animals providing the wool.

If you are looking for a great layer piece for colder weather, or just a really nice really comfortable jacket for those mild nights, you will not go wrong with the Ibex Shak Jacket.  The natural fibers, and Ibex’s commitment to sustainability make this jacket one of my favorites.  The quality construction and attention to detail make this the jacket I will reach for year after year.