Kelsey Takeuchi Ski Touring in the Women’s Smartwool Intraknit Merino Hoodie | Photo Brigette Takeuchi Mountain Weekly News
Smartwool Intraknit Women’s Thermal Max Merino Base Layer Pattern Hoodie
When I retreat to the backcountry, I take care in bringing gear that either sustains or enhances my experience outdoors. This policy extends to the clothing I choose to bring along. When it comes to winter sports, finding a high quality base layer that is warm and breathable is essential.
Over the weekend I was able to try out Smartwool’s Intraknit Thermal Hoodie and assess its performance in the backcountry. Racking in over 10,000 vertical feet over two days in the Wasatch, I put this hoodie to the ultimate test.
Breathable thermoregulating layers have become essential for ski touring and splitboarding, which is why we’ve spent the past several winters comparing the best merino and hybrid systems in our Best Ski & Snowboard Base Layers of 2026 roundup.
Fit and Feel
The Intraknit Thermal Hoodie is constructed with 100% merino wool and 3D mapping technology allowing it to conform to my body. I have struggled with finding a base layer that fits properly. I tried a small and being on the more petitie end (just shy of five feet tall) I found the hoodie fit well and I was able to layer up easily. I was touring in a wide range of temperatures as I ascended in elevation and felt that this hoodie was most relevant in the high alpine. I threw it on once we reached the treeline and stayed warm and dry the rest of the way.
Performance
Staying dry is essential in winter environments and is one of the most important factors I take into account when choosing my base layers. There is nothing worse than overheating on the skin track one moment and shivering on the top of the mountain drenched in cold sweat the next. I wore the Intraknit Thermal Hoodie for the entire day and ascended 6k feet and was pleasantly surprised to find that I felt comfortable and dry at the top of each run.
During high-output backcountry missions, pieces like the Smartwool Intraknit and Le Bent Antarctic Grid Fleece separate themselves from traditional heavyweight base layers by balancing warmth with ventilation.
Features
As far as features go Smartwool designed the hoodie with noteworthy technologies that elevate its performance. The hoodie is constructed with insulating terry loops combined with mesh ventilation to enhance warmth and breathability. With mesh ventilation concentrated in specific areas (i.e. under bra-line, arm pits, low back), I felt I was able to easily regulate my body temperature as I ascended the skin-track. This being said, the hoodie is designed with colder temperatures in mind (<25 F) and I was ascending at elevations above 9000 feet.
Who is this For?
The Intraknit Thermal Hoodie is for winter-enthusiasts seeking a durable and breathable base layer for use in alpine environments. I have long been searching for a base layer like this one and recommend the piece to anyone who has struggled with staying warm and dry up high.
Overall Impression
The Intraknit Thermal Max Merino Base Layer Hoodie is a worthwhile purchase for any backcountry enthusiast. Currently available in two colors – black cherry violet and black – the plaid hoodie is both a stylish and functional purchase. I can say with confidence this item is now a staple in my backcountry wardrobe.
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