Do you ever wear wool? For many people, just hearing the words “wool sweater” makes their skin itch, but that doesn’t have to be the case anymore. Plus, wool isn’t just for cold and gloomy days. Merino wool is becoming increasingly popular as a comfortable fabric for any occasion. In this article, we’ll explore why everyone should give merino wool a try at least once.
The popularity of wool
Wool is one of the oldest materials humans have used to make clothing. Around 4,000 years BC, people discovered that sheep’s wool had some amazing qualities. It doesn’t just keep you warm in the winter but also cool in the summer, thanks to its breathability and natural ventilation. Wool absorbs moisture well without holding onto it, keeping the clothing lightweight. Over the centuries, different sheep breeds have been developed, each with unique wool. The most famous and sought-after is merino wool from the merino sheep.
The high quality of merino wool
What makes merino wool so special? First, the merino sheep produces much finer wool compared to other breeds. This means the fibers are softer and more flexible, so they don’t itch or prick your skin. Another benefit is that bacteria and fungi don’t easily settle into merino wool, making bad odors rare. This makes a merino wool shirt a great option for any professional. It’s also one of the most elastic wools in the world, so merino wool clothing keeps its shape, no matter how much you wear or stretch it. No wonder merino wool hiking socks are so popular!
Is merino wool animal-friendly?
For a long time, merino wool was associated with a painful procedure called mulesing, where farmers would cut away skin around the sheep’s tail area, often without anesthesia. Fortunately, more brands and farmers are banning mulesing and producing animal-friendly merino wool. They’re using more natural and effective methods to combat parasites, which is not only better for the sheep but also contributes to more sustainable wool production. When choosing merino wool, look for the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) certification. This independent label ensures the wool comes from sheep treated with respect and care, without mulesing.
Stylish all the year with merino wool
Wool adapts to your body temperature (just like it did for the sheep), so it’s perfectly fine to wear year-round. It also naturally absorbs harmful UV rays and even has fire-resistant properties (though we don’t recommend testing that out). This makes it ideal for snowy slopes during winter sports. You’ll often see men wearing merino wool half-zip sweaters at après-ski events. For a more refined look, opt for a merino wool turtleneck or pullover when you’re going out to dinner or a night on the town. Lambswool sweaters tend to be thicker and have a more rugged appearance.
Caring for merino wool
Merino wool is naturally antibacterial and doesn’t hold onto odors, so you don’t need to wash it often. To freshen it up, simply air it out. For stubborn stains, there’s no need to soak it or use fabric softener. Wash it along with other wool garments, using a wool wash cycle at no more than 86°F (30°C) and a gentle spin at 600 RPM. Lay the sweater flat on a drying rack (without clothespins) on top of a same-colored towel. Don’t put it in the dryer! If you prefer hand washing, use lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Resist the urge to wring it out. Of course, you can always take it to the dry cleaners.
