Remember those itchy wool sweaters Grandma used to give you for Christmas every year? The ones that made your skin start to crawl just by looking at them? (And not because of the two-deer-dancing design either.)

She'd say wool keeps you warm. And she was right. But these days, athletic-wear companies have made synthetic fiber clothing the hot gear to wear when training, and real wool has become as outdated as Grandma's beehive. A company called I/O Biocompatibles wants to change that.

Their all-season, 100% Merino wool, athletic baselayers are designed to keep you warm while snowboarding, skiing, hiking, even kayaking and surfing. Yup, surfers are wearing it under their wet suits. And claim there's no itch. (From wet wool?)

You don't have to submerge wool to experience its moisture wicking advantages. It can absorb 30% of its own weight in water, making it ideal for pulling sweat away from your skin. It's also naturally anti-bacterial and anti-microbial, so that smell that results from your strenuous work out won't linger in your clothes.

The look of I/O Biocompatibles is more modern than the thick, bulky look and feel of the wool clothing you remember, too. Fitted Euro cuts, athletic styles, softer feels, machine washability, and updated prints are features of their line of tanks, tees, crew necks, hoodies, polos, vests, track pants, and even boxer briefs. (A little woolen comfort for the boys doesn't sound half bad.) Check out the styles at www.iobiocompatibles.com. You may want to send Grandma the link.

Prices Vary
www.iobiocompatibles.com