Artilect Flatiron 185 Crew Review: Premium Baselayer Performance with Nuyarn Merino Technology

The Artilect Flatiron 185 Crew is one of the most advanced lightweight base layers in the merino category — built for active use across cold conditions, layered systems, and high-output movement. What sets it apart? It’s powered by Nuyarn® technology, a proprietary spinning technique that claims to deliver better warmth, faster drying, and stronger tensile durability than traditional merino wool.

We tested the Flatiron 185 Crew over the course of six weeks on hillwalks, gravel rides, trail runs, and winter hikes. Here’s how it performs for breathability, fit, next-to-skin comfort, and technical versatility.

Specifications at a Glance

Fabric Technology: Nuyarn® Explained

Artilect’s unique selling point is its partnership with Nuyarn®, a spinning technology that wraps long-staple merino fibres around a performance core. This process delivers:

• 35% faster drying time than standard merino
• Stronger tensile strength — less prone to holes or stretching
• Increased loft and thermal efficiency
• More stretch and recovery than ring-spun blends

Unlike traditional wool, which can feel sluggish to dry and fragile under pack straps or repeated wear, Nuyarn’s performance edge gives the Flatiron 185 Crew a genuine case for active layering and long-term use.

Next-to-Skin Comfort and Fit

Straight out of the packaging, the Flatiron 185 feels exceptionally soft and smooth. Gone is the coarse, scratchy feel of older merino — replaced with a buttery fabric hand and resilient drape.

The athletic fit hugs closely, without squeezing or creating hotspots:

• Shoulder seams sit cleanly under pack straps — great for hiking and fastpacking
• Thumb loops extend sleeve coverage in colder climates or aid layering under shells
• Drop-tail hem covers lower back and stays tucked during movement
• Crew neck finish is non-irritating, even over long trail efforts

It wears almost like a technical second skin, making it ideal for pairing with insulation or waterproof shells. Testers up to 6’2” found sleeve length and torso coverage generous but close-fitting.

Breathability and Moisture Management

Across hillwalks and trail runs in 2–10°C conditions, the Flatiron 185 Crew managed heat and moisture impressively:

• Sweat evaporated quickly even during steep climbs
• No wet-cling or swampy feel under softshells or gilets
• Air permeability remained high, keeping skin cool during recovery pauses

Compared to standard 100% merino layers, this top dried faster and felt more “thermo-regulating” under variable conditions. Ideal for aerobic output like ski touring, winter cycling, or multi-pitch climbing.

Durability and Long-Term Use

After 30+ hours of active testing and five wash cycles:

• No holes, snags or noticeable thinning of the fabric
• Seams remained flat and intact — even under shoulder straps
• Odour control was excellent, surviving multiple days without stink
• Shape retention was consistent, no sagging or sleeve warping

While merino has a reputation for fragility, Nuyarn’s reinforcement with nylon and unique construction genuinely improves durability for technical use. For fastpackers, bikepackers, and minimalist kit builders — it’s a game-changer.

Thermal Efficiency and Layering Versatility

At 185gsm, this layer hits a sweet spot between ultralight and midweight:

• Worn solo, it’s suitable for 8–14°C movement-focused outings
• Paired with an active-insulation midlayer, it excels in sub-zero hiking
• Under a shell, it stays warm even after wet exposure

Compared to Patagonia Capilene and Icebreaker Zone layers, Artilect’s fabric felt warmer for weight, without adding bulk or compromise to movement. Climbers and winter hillwalkers will find it fits under harnesses and packs seamlessly.

Style and Off-Trail Use

Though technical at heart, the Flatiron 185 Crew looks sharp enough for everyday wear:

• Simple branding, neutral colourways, and sleek stitching
• Thumb loops hide discreetly when not in use
• Crew neck fits well under light jumpers or fleeces

While price tags may push it out of casual use for some, the combination of premium fabric, technical function, and understated design makes it versatile enough for pub stops or post-hike recovery.

Comparisons: Flatiron 185 vs Key Merino Baselayers

Artilect leads in next-to-skin feel, drying speed, and technical longevity. Its price reflects those premium performance gains.

Pros

• Buttery soft and non-irritating merino blend
• Fast drying and thermally efficient — ideal for aerobic activity
• Durable — holds shape and resists wear longer than pure wool
• Excellent fit with articulation and thumb loops
• Sustainable wool sourcing and Bluesign® certified construction
• Ideal for layering under technical insulation or shells

Cons

• Premium price point versus conventional merino
• Athletic fit may feel snug for casual wearers
• No zip or high collar — limited wind blocking when worn solo
• Not as warm as 250gsm options for static winter use
• May require a midlayer in wind-chilled alpine settings

Final Verdict

The Artilect Flatiron 185 Crew is one of the most capable next-to-skin layers on the market — blending high-performance merino softness with Nuyarn’s advanced fabric engineering for faster drying, stronger durability, and better thermoregulation.

For climbers, runners, and multi-day hikers who demand performance from every layer, the Flatiron delivers technical excellence and comfort that lasts. It’s not cheap — but for serious mountain users, it’s worth every penny.

Rating: 9.4/10
Best For: Cold-weather layering, alpine movement, trail running, ski touring
Avoid If: You prefer looser fit or budget-priced midweight merino