Designed in the Netherlands, knitted from extrafine merino, machine-washable for years.
ETQ builds one merino line, refined season by season rather than replaced. The idea is simple: a knit fine enough to wear against the skin, engineered to survive real life, including your washing machine. Spun from 100% extrafine and ultrafine merino, the finest grades of the fibre, the range runs from the crewneck and half-zip to the roll neck and cardigan. Designed in our Dutch studio and knitted in China at a mill chosen for its specialism in fine-gauge merino, from wool raised in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
When we ask customers why they bought, the same answers come back: the clean design and the quality. Across more than 500 verified reviews ETQ holds 4.6 out of 5, and after quality the word that recurs most is comfort, the part you can't judge until it's on. Many buy one piece and come back for the next colour; it's how a good share of every month's orders is placed, part of a community of more than 250,000 customers across Europe and North America.
The difference most people notice first, though, is maintenance. Most 100% merino asks for hand-washing or the dry cleaner. Ours is engineered for the gentle wool cycle at 30°C: the same softness and drape, none of the ritual. A sweater you actually reach for, not one you save for best.
The range, by how you'll actually wear it
Crewneck (SW 04). The most honest knit there is, no collar, no zip, nowhere to hide. The clean round neck most wardrobes start with, worn alone or layered under a jacket.
Half-zip (SW 05). Two pieces in one: zipped, a polished stand-collar sweater; open, an easy crew. The refined answer to a quarter-zip.
Roll neck (SW 06). The winter layer that only works if the fibre is right, here fine enough to sit against the neck all day. Understated under a blazer, complete on its own.
Cardigan (ZS 04). The most adaptable layer a man owns: open or buttoned, over a shirt for the office or a tee at the weekend.
How to wear it
A merino knit is the cleanest mid-layer you own. Wear the crewneck or roll neck under a jacket with tailored trousers, or on their own with denim and clean sneakers. Layer the cardigan over a shirt or a tee. Keep the palette tonal and let the knit carry the outfit. For built-out looks see our business casual edit, or the rest of our menswear.
The material, and why it's different
What you're actually wearing when you wear ETQ merino:
- Extrafine and ultrafine merino: the finest grades of the fibre. The itch in ordinary wool comes from coarse fibres above 25 microns; extrafine merino is fine enough to bend against the skin rather than prick it, so it's comfortable on direct contact.
- Temperature-regulating: merino insulates for its weight and breathes, so it's warm when it's cold and never clammy when it's not, a true year-round knit.
- Odour-resistant: it naturally resists odour, so it stays fresh far longer between washes and travels without creasing.
- Machine-washable: engineered for the gentle wool cycle at 30°C, where most pure merino needs hand-washing or dry cleaning.
- Made: designed in our Dutch studio and knitted in China at a mill chosen for its specialism in fine-gauge merino, from wool raised in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
How to choose
Three honest starting points. For the one knit that does everything: the crewneck. For adjustable warmth and a collar: the half-zip. For the coldest months, or under tailoring: the roll neck. Prefer an open layer? The cardigan. All share the same fit, so once you know your size you can move between them.
Frequently asked about ETQ merino
How does ETQ merino fit?
A clean, regular fit that layers without bulk. Most customers find it true to size; if you prefer a closer or looser line, size accordingly. Each product page carries a size guide and verified-buyer fit feedback.
Is it really machine-washable?
Yes, and it's the main reason people switch. Every piece is engineered for the gentle wool cycle at 30°C, where most 100% merino needs hand-washing or dry cleaning. Wash inside out, reshape while damp and lay flat to dry; never tumble dry, as heat felts the fibres.
Does merino itch?
No. The itch in regular wool comes from coarse fibres above 25 microns. Extrafine and ultrafine merino is fine enough to bend against the skin rather than prick it, so it's comfortable even on sensitive skin and at the neck.
Merino or a cotton knit, which should I buy?
Merino for versatility. It insulates better for its weight, breathes, wicks moisture and resists odour, so it works across more of the year and needs washing less. Cotton is heavier and less temperature-regulating.
Will it pill?
Fine-gauge extrafine merino resists pilling far better than coarse blends. Wash gently on the wool cycle and wash less, merino's odour resistance means you can, and it stays smooth for years.
How warm is it, and can I layer it?
Warm for its weight and bulk-free, so it layers cleanly under a jacket or overshirt and works as a mid-layer or on its own. The roll neck and half-zip add the most warmth at the neck.
Where is ETQ merino made?
Designed in our Dutch studio and knitted in China at a mill chosen for its specialism in fine-gauge merino. The wool is raised in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
How do returns and exchanges work?
Returns and exchanges run through a self-service portal within 14 days of receipt, for a different size or colour. We ship across Europe, the UK, the US and beyond.
New to the knitwear? Start with the crewneck, or move into the rest of the wardrobe via our menswear collection. This is ETQ. Designed quietly. Worn, and washed, for years. Read our full story.
| EU | US | UK | CM |
| 39 | 6 | 5 | 25.7 |
| 40 | 7 | 6 | 26.4 |
| 41 | 8 | 7 | 27.0 |
| 42 | 9 | 8 | 27.7 |
| 43 | 10 | 9 | 28.3 |
| 44 | 11 | 10 | 28.9 |
| 45 | 12 | 11 | 29.6 |
| 46 | 13 | 12 | 30.2 |
| 47 | 14 | 13 | 30.9 |
How to measure
Let’s find your perfect fit. Place a sheet of paper on the floor against the wall and put your feet (with socks) on it, heels against the wall. Make sure you lean on your feet with full power when measuring. Now you simply draw a line at the end of the biggest foot. Measure the distance with a ruler and find the size that matches it: see size table. Are you in between sizes? In that case, we suggest taking the bigger size.
Mediterranean Suede
Refined in style, matt in color. The ultra-soft suede leather is sanded and feels velvety soft. It is crafted from the inside layer of the leather hide. Mediterranean leather is the delicate choice.
Premium Suede
Experience unparalleled luxury. It's made of the finest selection of hides and superior finishing techniques. It is valued for its softness, flexibility, and ability to lend a sophisticated look. Our premium suede shoes need no lining, just one layer of leather. It wears like a second skin.
Nappa Leather
Soft. Smooth. Nappa leather makes extremely comfortable shoes. The leather is obtained from tanning animal hides. It is characterized by a fine grain and a smooth finish. It feels simply sophisticated.
Nubuck Leather
Premium nubuck: the best of the best. Exclusive leather that we sanded rough on the outside grain part of the hide, giving it a velvety butter-soft surface. It offers utmost suppleness.
Full Grain Leather
Full grain leather is naturally firmer and more durable as it is produced by retaining the top layer of the hide. Its appearance is natural, authentic, and robust. You are still able to see the grains. It looks just like the grains on your skin. We never sanded, buffed, or snuffed it, so this leather is super strong.
French Terry
Tès Chique. French terry is a knit characterized by its unique looped-back construction. One side is smooth, and the other side is textured with loops of thread. It is known for its comfort, breathability, and moisture-proof properties. French terry is available as lightweight or heavyweight.
Punti di Roma
Wrinkle-resistant, soft like a baby, and slightly elastic. This is Italian quality, knitted to perfection. Punti Di Roma has a heavy, rich quality as the stitches interlock on both sides of the fabric. The best part: it’s recovery properties. This fabric stays in shape. And so will you.
Bamboo
Bamboo fibers are derived from the pulp of bamboo plants. Bamboo knits are soft and breathable. Moisture wicking? Yes. Ideal for socks.
American Fleece
Comfort meets durability in our American Fleece. This fabric is made from a blend of premium cotton and synthetic fibers, providing a soft yet resilient texture. Known for its exceptional warmth and insulation, American Fleece is perfect for layering or wearing on its own. Its slightly brushed surface creates a plush, cozy feel, making it ideal for cooler climates. Despite its softness, this fleece is highly durable and resistant to pilling, ensuring it maintains its luxurious feel wear after wear. A staple in athleisure and casualwear, American Fleece offers the perfect balance of comfort and performance.
Italian Fleece
Elegance meets functionality with our Italian Fleece. This luxurious fabric is crafted from a premium cotton blend, renowned for its superior softness and refined texture. Italian Fleece is lightweight yet provides excellent warmth, making it an ideal choice for year-round comfort. Its smooth, polished surface gives it a sophisticated appearance, elevating casual wear to a new level of style. The meticulous Italian craftsmanship behind this fleece ensures it retains its shape and quality over time, offering both durability and a high-end feel. Perfect for layering or as a statement piece, Italian Fleece embodies the essence of quiet luxury with unparalleled comfort.
Piqué Knit
A true classic in fabric craftsmanship, piqué knit is renowned for its unique textured surface, characterized by a subtle waffle or honeycomb pattern. Originally developed for sportswear, piqué knit has evolved into a sophisticated fabric that balances structure with breathability. The weave creates tiny raised patterns, adding a tactile dimension while allowing air to flow easily, making it perfect for all-season wear.
Soft yet durable, piqué knit is frequently used in polo shirts and garments that require a balance between casual and formal. It drapes beautifully while maintaining a slight stretch, offering comfort without losing its shape. Known for its ability to hold its form and resist wrinkling, this fabric is an excellent choice for those who value a polished look with minimal maintenance.
Mercerized Cotton
Mercerized cotton is the epitome of luxury in cotton fabrics. Through a special finishing process, the cotton fibers are treated to enhance their natural properties, resulting in a fabric that is smoother, stronger, and more lustrous. The mercerization process not only strengthens the fibers but also gives the cotton a subtle sheen that adds an elevated, polished look to the material.
What sets mercerized cotton apart is its ability to hold dye exceptionally well, resulting in vibrant, rich colors that resist fading over time. It’s smoother to the touch than regular cotton, offering a silk-like feel without sacrificing breathability. This fabric is durable, resists shrinking, and maintains its shape, making it ideal for garments that combine sophistication with everyday wearability.
At ETQ, our mercerized cotton shirts offer a refined, elegant look with the comfort and practicality of cotton. It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate understated luxury and long-lasting quality in their wardrobe essentials.
Twill Fabric – Iron Free
Twill fabric is a durable, structured material characterized by its diagonal weave pattern, offering a distinct texture and visual depth. Known for its strength and versatility, twill is used in garments that require a bit more durability while maintaining a polished, professional look. The diagonal weave provides natural wrinkle resistance, making it an excellent choice for both casual and formal attire.
What sets our Iron-Free Twill apart is its advanced treatment that ensures a smooth, crisp appearance straight out of the wash, eliminating the need for ironing. This fabric is designed to stay sharp and maintain its form throughout the day, providing an effortlessly polished look with minimal effort. Its ability to resist creasing and maintain its structure makes it ideal for busy professionals or frequent travelers who need their clothing to perform as well as they do.