This is my first pair of merino wool shorts and all I have to say is I love them just like my shirts, underwear, sweaters and cycling bibs. What I like the best is the ability to wear them several days without them smelling bad or getting stretched out of shape (like cotton). The material is very durable almost like a soft canvas and wears very well. As with all Icebreaker stuff I own I find their sizing to be true to size. I have to say I had the most difficult time with buying $120 shorts, but I feel you get what you pay for and Icebreaker products in my opinion are worth cost.