YAK MERINO SKIN™ and YAK SKIN™ Comfort Technology

The YAK MERINO SKIN™ Comfort Technology by BLACKYAK was honored with the ISPO AWARD 2023 for its exceptional level of innovation. But what exactly makes this material so special? BLACKYAK offers two advanced variants: YAK MERINO SKIN™ Comfort Technology and YAK SKIN™ Comfort Technology. Both technologies are based on an advanced insulation technique designed specifically for extreme conditions—with a small but significant difference.

Common Ground: High-Performance Insulation Without Inner Lining
Both YAK MERINO SKIN™ Comfort Technology and YAK SKIN™ Comfort Technology feature an innovative insulation structure that requires no additional inner lining. The insulation material is directly bonded to a support layer, making the products lightweight and highly breathable. This construction provides excellent thermal performance without compromising breathability, making it ideal for intense outdoor activities where temperature regulation is crucial.
Products using both technologies require only an outer lining while still offering maximum thermal insulation. By bonding the insulation layer to the support layer, weight is reduced, and performance is optimized.

The Key Difference: The Merino Addition
The major difference between the two technologies lies in the inclusion of Merino wool. In YAK MERINO SKIN™ Comfort Technology, premium Merino wool is integrated into the insulation layer, providing additional benefits. Merino wool is naturally antibacterial and odor-resistant, trapping sweat bacteria in its fibers and thereby reducing unpleasant odors. When aired out, these odors are mostly released, keeping the jackets and insulation products fresher for longer—a significant advantage on multi-day expeditions or during intense activities.
Additionally, Merino wool provides natural temperature regulation. It can absorb moisture within its fibers and release it through evaporation, cooling the body while still retaining its insulating properties.
YAK MERINO SKIN™ Comfort Technology is featured in BLACKYAK products like the Zubron Jacket and the Bakosi Jacket, both known for their outstanding warmth and breathability.



Technology and Material Innovation Behind YAK MERINO SKIN™ and YAK SKIN™
Both technologies share the same base structure, with insulation made from synthetic polyester fibers connected to a flexible fabric core. This construction ensures sweat is quickly wicked away, keeping the body dry even during strenuous activities. The synthetic fibers are hydrophobic, offering quick-drying properties and excellent durability.

In YAK MERINO SKIN™ Comfort Technology, the natural performance of Merino wool is added to this structure. Its semi-permeable cellular structure can absorb moisture while simultaneously helping regulate body temperature naturally. Together with the synthetic fibers, this creates a perfect blend of quick-drying, high breathability, and natural odor control.

YAK SKIN™ Comfort Technology, on the other hand, uses the same synthetic structure without the Merino wool addition. It offers the same breathable and insulating properties but without the added benefits of Merino in terms of odor control and temperature regulation. This technology is utilized in products like the Saltoro Pant, offering robust protection and exceptional comfort during high-intensity activities.



Efficient Heat Retention and Superior Comfort
Compared to other insulation materials like Primaloft, both YAK MERINO SKIN™ and YAK SKIN™ offer excellent thermal performance that can be worn directly against the skin without the need for additional lining. Merino adds extra comfort and temperature regulation, while the synthetic fibers form air pockets that create a stable, insulating layer, keeping warmth close to the body.

Lightweight and Compact: Ideal for Expeditions
Both YAK MERINO SKIN™ and YAK SKIN™ Comfort Technology excel in their lightweight and space-saving construction. For expeditions or long treks where weight and volume are critical, these technologies shine. Fewer layers mean less weight without compromising insulation performance, making them ideal for extreme weather conditions.



Reliability in Every Condition
Whether you choose YAK MERINO SKIN™ or YAK SKIN™ Comfort Technology, both offer top-tier protection, high breathability, and excellent thermal performance. The choice between the two depends on your individual needs: do you want the added benefits of Merino wool for odor control and natural temperature regulation, or are you looking for a lightweight, fully synthetic insulation? Either way, BLACKYAK provides an unparalleled solution for outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on performance.