Exploring Smartwool’s Second Cut Collection

What You Need To Know

Smartwool Second Cut

I joined Smartwool in Boulder this fall for a hike on the Homestead and Mesa Trail Loop, there on assignment for Believe in the Run to check out the brand’s new Second Cut collection. The morning was quite warm, but that is pretty typical for Colorado in late September. The leaves are definitely starting to turn, but the grip of summer has not quite released. Smartwool had gathered a small group of runners and journalists to introduce the line and talk about what circular design looks like in practice.

Before the event, they sent over a full kit: the Second Cut Fleece Full Zip, Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer, Active Ultralite Short Sleeve, Active Run Pant, and more. I wore a few of the pieces in Boulder and tested the rest back home over the following weeks on the run—both road and trail. Not all of the items were Second Cut, but the new line was certainly the centerpiece of the event.

The Second Cut line takes pre-consumer merino scraps and turns them into new fleece, socks, and accessories. It’s Smartwool’s version of circular design, giving leftover materials a second life. The concept makes sense for a brand that already builds long-lasting gear. The material feels a little different from Smartwool’s traditional merino—slightly coarser, less plush—but still dependable and ready for real use.

I wore these socks in Boulder and again on local trails at home. My go-to socks for fly fishing under my waders are Smartwool’s classic merino, which are softer and more cushioned. The Second Cut version isn’t quite as plush but still feels reliable. They stay in place, breathe well, and hold up to long days on your feet. More rugged than cozy, but built to last.

A solid all-purpose layer. It’s soft and fits well but runs a bit hot for higher-output efforts. I took it on a morning trail run on a fairly cool morning, and I was warmer than I cared to be. It manages moisture fine but doesn’t breathe as well as lighter merino blends, like the Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer with its perforated design. For hiking, travel, or casual wear, it’s a dependable piece that feels good against the skin.

This one turned out to be a surprise. I wore it for the Boulder hike and have since used it for a few runs. It’s light, flexible, and quiet, with an athletic fit that’s slightly roomy, even in my size small. The recycled polyester fabric balances stretch and structure well. It’s comfortable on the move and holds up through variable fall weather. A nice fall running staple that transitions easily from the trail to daily wear.

The Second Cut Fleece Full Zip feels sturdy and substantial. It’s warm enough for early fall starts but doesn’t trap heat once you’re moving. The recycled merino-poly blend has a rougher hand than traditional fleece, but it feels durable and holds its shape well. The fit is relaxed, layers easily, and looks good zipped up or open over a tee. It’s a practical, no-fuss outer layer that seems built for years of wear.

I didn’t wear this on the hike, but I’ve run in it several times since. The Merino and TENCEL blend feels light, smooth, and cool to the touch. It dries quickly and doesn’t cling when you sweat. It’s easily one of the most comfortable running shirts Smartwool makes.

Warm, simple, and stays in place. Same recycled fleece feel as the jacket. A solid cold-weather staple that fits right into the rest of the collection.

Final Thoughts

Smartwool’s Second Cut collection is a thoughtful step toward circular design. The fleece and socks aren’t as soft as traditional merino, and the base layer runs warm, but the build quality is high across the board. The Active Run Pant and Ultralite Short Sleeve are the standouts for versatility and comfort. Overall, it’s durable, well-made gear designed for a second life, which feels true to what Smartwool has always stood for.