EDZ use the name flannel here to describe the nature of the fabric and it fits the traditional look of their checked merino hiking shirt, but it is very much a useful outdoor layer. The fabric is a thicker merino, densely woven with very little stretch. It’s quite stiff when new although still smooth and comfortable against the skin which repeated wear and wash has improved further.
Peter Macfarlane’s Best in Test
I’ve worn the flannel with synthetic and merino base layers and the warmth for very low bulk is excellent on cool hill days with a little sting being taken out of the wind by the dense fabric.- Comfort
- Durability
- Adaptability
- Fabric
- Slightly small pockets
- Heavy
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £110 Weight: 398g Large Materials: 100% merino wool, corozo buttons Features: Full length buttoned front, buttoned cuffs, stand up shirt collar, two chest pockets Sizes: S-XXL Women’s version: no edz.co.uk |
The seams are all smooth inside including the seven button placket. The double thickness cuffs have two buttons for adjustability and the wrists are gusseted to allow for a little more room on the arms. The cuffs easily roll up above my elbows. The collar is stiff enough to be folded up for wind and sun protection. The fit is excellent with a relaxed slim cut and I can wear the flannel over a base layer or on its own.
The lack of stretch in the fabric has been compensated with a good active shape and I can reach up for a scrambling move without the bottom of the shirt pulling out of my pack belt, which is helped by a good length on the body too. It’s definitely not a shirt from climbing in, but for regular hill walking the mobility is good. The 100% merino fabric stays fresh without washing for a long time, you can wear and sleep in the flannel for days if you have to but it does take a while longer than a synthetic layer to dry if you overload it with sweat.
I’ve worn the flannel with synthetic and merino base layers and the warmth for very low bulk is excellent on cool hill days with a little sting being taken out of the wind by the dense fabric. Add what’s looking like good durability to the fit and performance and the flannel has become one of my go to layers.
