Why I’m Bringing Smartwool Into the Grand Canyon

This fall, I’ll be attempting to travel roughly 600 miles from east to west across the length of the Grand Canyon while traveling below the rim. It’s a route made up of steep climbs, loose descents, exposed traverses, long dry stretches, spiny cacti, rock, heat, and constant decision-making. The canyon punishes inefficiency. If something isn’t working, I’ll feel it quickly. 

That’s why I’m bringing Smartwool with me. I wanted a gear partner for this project whose products are built for movement, changing conditions, and heavy mileage. I also needed gear I’d trust with my life, and for me, Smartwool’s merino wool has proven itself over and over again in all imaginable conditions, especially in the desert. 

Some people still associate wool with winter layers or heavy sweaters, but merino is something entirely different. It’s the most versatile fabric I use on trail. It helps regulate temperature, manages moisture, stays comfortable against my skin, and doesn’t get smelly even after multiple days of wear. Those qualities are invaluable while I’m living outside day after day. 

Merino breathes well when it’s hot, helps move moisture when I’m sweating, and still offers comfort when temperatures drop in the evening or early morning. Instead of constantly changing layers or feeling clammy once I stop moving, I stay comfy. On a long expedition, that adds up physically and mentally. 

For this project, there are three Smartwool pieces I’m especially excited about: 

First is the Merino Sun Hoodie. If you know desert travel, you know sun management is everything. One might think less clothing is the answer in heat, but exposed skin can become a liability. Direct sun drains energy, and dehydrates you quicker. A lightweight hoodie gives me coverage without having to constantly reapply sunscreen to every inch of skin. 

I love that this sun hoodie protects my skin while still feeling breathable and wearable during movement. I expect this piece will be one of my daily essentials in the canyon. I’ll have my hood up in exposed sections, sleeves down when the sun is harsh, and it’s just as useful during cooler mornings or evenings around camp. It solves multiple problems at once. 

The second piece I’m excited about is the Women’s Merino 4" Hike Short. In terrain like the Grand Canyon, where I’m stepping over rocks, stemming through drainages, scrambling ledges, and climbing in and out of side canyons, my shorts need to move with me. If they don’t fit right, hold moisture, ride up, restrict movement, or chafe, I’ll be feeling it big time. 

I need shorts I can wear all day that will stay comfortable under my pack, flexible on steep terrain, and durable enough to hold up to repeated abuse. The 4" Hike Short feels built for intense movement rather than just casual wear, and that’s perfect for a project where every day is active and technical.  

Then there are the Women’s Hike Mid-Crew Socks. Anyone who hikes long enough knows socks are not a small detail. My feet are my transportation, and once they start breaking down, everything becomes harder. 

The mid-crew socks help with moisture control, friction reduction, temperature regulation, and overall comfort. Merino is especially valuable here because feet sweat, terrain is abrasive, and repeated use exposes weaknesses fast. I’ve trusted Smartwool merino socks for years because they always work. For something like the Grand Canyon Traverse, dealing with sand, rock, heat, and huge mileage means dependable socks are one of the smartest investments I can make. 

There’s also a bigger reason I wanted Smartwool on this journey. Long expeditions strip things down to what matters. Smartwool has built a reputation around functional products that people actually rely on, and that means something to me. 

I also appreciate when companies recognize that the outdoors belongs to everyone. Nature isn’t reserved for one kind of person, one body type, one identity, or one background. The more people who feel welcome outside, the stronger our outdoor community becomes.  

As I get closer to stepping into the canyon, I’m constantly mulling over different aspects of the project. Route choices. Water carries. Food planning. Heat management. But I’m also thinking about the simple things that support every hard mile like clothing and socks that are tough and adaptable. Thankfully, I trust Smartwool’s merino wool products so I know I won’t need to think about them once the project begins. 

Smartwool lets me focus on the ancient walls, the endless side canyons, the problem-solving, the fatigue, the beauty, and the privilege of moving through one of the most powerful landscapes on earth. 

Follow along with my journey on Instagram @seltzerskelter and feel free to reach out with any questions! 

Written by: Lyla Harrod