Merino wool is the best thing going right now. If I could I would replace all of my synthetic stuff including hats, glove liners, base layers, etc with merino I would (and am almost there).

The question of if its worth it or not is really a matter of how much you'll use it. If it only comes out of the pack once or twice a year, then I would say no. However, if you find yourself in it much of the time your out in the cold, then it is definitely worth the price. The best purchases I've made have been those that I use all the time due to their function, comfort, fit, quality, etc. To be honest, I can't even remember the price or how much I paid on many of my favorite pieces of gear. As far as I'm concerned, they were all bargains <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />...

Having said that, I would make sure the website your buying it from has a good return policy. The only thing I can think of that would not make it a good purchase would be fit. Most refutable outdoor gear websites have excellent return policies (backcountry.com, campsaver.com, etc.)

I like most of what Smartwool is making these days and I think the price is where it should be in regards to other merino wool accessories.