Based in the Blue Mountains, I’m an adventurer at heart — a climber, a photographer, and someone who spends a lot of time chasing wild moments. I’ve tested these layers in all kinds of conditions, and here’s why they’ve earned a permanent spot in my pack:

#1: 100% Aussie Merino = All Season Comfort

As someone who's always out chasing the elements, I need layers that can keep up. This 100% Australian Woolmark-certified Merino regulates temp, feels good all day, and never lets me down — whatever the weather.

#2: No Sweat, No Stink

Long days on the move mean sweat — but this stuff breathes like a dream and doesn’t hold odour. I’ve worn it hiking, climbing, even sleeping, and it still smells fresh(ish) by the end.

#3: Packs Light, Warms Big

This Merino hits the sweet spot — super light, rolls tiny, but keeps me warm when temps drop. It’s the kind of layer you forget you packed… until you’re glad you did.

#4: Wrapped in Nature

There’s something different about wearing 100% natural fibres out in the wild. Feels better on your skin — and better for the planet too. I’ll take that over synthetics any day.

#5: So Comfy You’ll Forget You’re Wearing It

Base layer, sleep-under-the-stars shirt, backup tee — this thing does it all. Half the time I forget I’ve got it on, which is probably why I keep reaching for it first.

DAYGIN'S MERINO PICKS

get to know Daygin

One reason to get outside?
Nature heals. I truly believe that so many solutions can be found in the wild. From taking time to soak up the sun and sit amongst the trees to going on big adventures. Nature is a vessel to heal and learn in many forms. 

One thing you never forget to pack for an adventure (and why)?
The number of times I've been left walking out from an adventure using my phone torch while on 10% phone battery has taught me to ALWAYS pack a headlamp. 

One bit of advice you’ll always remember?
You only fail if you quit.

One tip to share with budding outdoorsists?
Some outdoor activities feel so out of reach. I had no idea what to do or pack for my first overnight hike. But! Over time these things become part of your everyday life and the barrier for entry to each adventure becomes significantly easier. Sometimes people are turned away from outdoor adventure because it feels big and intimidating. Which it is sometimes! But take your time, make mistakes and the grand adventures will be on their way before you know it, small steps.

One time you felt out of your comfort zone?
The most out of my comfort zone I have felt in the outdoors would have been descending off of Ala Izquierda (5600m) in Bolivia - a technical alpine route. Descending on an extremely loose scree slab with 1000m of air below your feet. Knowing that a single slip or trip on your crampons or rock breaking would make for a very inconvenient journey to the valley floor. This was the most emotionally challenged I’ve ever felt outdoors. 

One reason there’s no place like home?
The connection you build with a place is not indifferent to a relationship with a person. The time spent in familiar outdoor spaces forms a bond with that place unlike anywhere else.