Merino Wool and its Qualities

Wool is one of the world’s most versatile fibres, Merino wool being its most valuable contender. It is 100% natural and in our environmentally conscious times, its sustainability and biodegradability are a plus. Yet, these are but a few qualities to its credit. Read on to know more.

BREATHABILITY
In extreme exertion, you need a garment that 'breathes', which means it must be able to absorb perspiration and release it into the air. No fabric does that quite like Merino. The hydrophilic core of the Merino Wool fiber has an amazing capacity to absorb liquid - up to 35% of its own weight - so it's better than synthetics at removing sweat from the skin, moving it away, and releasing it as vapor.
MULTI-CLIMATE
While synthetics are passive, Merino Wool is active, reacting to changes in ones body temperature to keep you warm when you're cold but releasing heat and moisture when you're hot.
ELASTICITY
The natural elasticity of the Merino Wool fiber means they stretch with the wearer, but then return to their natural shape so there is less chance of garments sagging or losing their shape.
HEALTH
Merino Wool has a number of health benefits including improved sleep and lower incidence of microbial infection for hospital patients.
ODOR
Studies show that the wool fiber’s ability to absorb and neutralize unpleasant odors is far superior to that of other textiles. Through its chemical composition wool can neutralize bodily substances which give rise to unpleasant odors, a considerable advantage when the opportunities for washing are limited. Comparative tests show that wool has absolutely the highest absorption capacity of all fibers.
SOFTNESS
Prickly wool clothing is a thing of the past.  Merino Wool is much finer than other types of wool and feels luxuriously gentle against your skin.
SWEAT/MOISTURE REMOVAL
Merino Wool is more effective than synthetics at absorbing sweat next to the skin, and moving it away to evaporate, helping to keep you cool and dry during exertion.


The only element seemingly missing here is fashion. Fashion – which is more about how you look and less about how you feel. Here too, Marino scores a plus. With its soft and lush fabric in various knits and styles, wool is one of the most sought after fabrics this season. Merino Wool has numerous natural attributes that make it one of the most comfortable of fabrics to wear. Its superfine fibers feel like silk next to the skin. And with knitwear an important element of the 2011-2012 Fashion Forecast for this Autumn-Winter season, you’ll be seeing more of wool than ever before!

All information courtesy of AWI