What Is Merino Wool? Why Should It Be a Part of Your Winter Wardrobe?

Chances are, you are familiar with rhymes about black sheep baa-baaing and Mary’s little lamb long before mastering the art of lacing up your own hiking boots. Perhaps you've even heard enthusiasts mention the term "merino" about outdoor gear. But how well-acquainted are you with this wooly wonder?

Because merino wool is the cornerstone of our Merino Wool collection, let's get to know what it is and why it should be part of your winter wardrobe.

What is the merino wool fabric?

merino wool fabric

Merino wool, sourced from merino sheep, is a remarkably fine natural fiber. Renowned for its softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, it's the perfect choice for base layers, socks, and liner gloves.

Originating from Spain, merino sheep have been cherished since the 12th century for their exceptionally soft and ultra-fine wool. Presently, merino sheep are raised across various countries including Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, South Africa, the United States, and Uruguay.

Wool, in general, is a robust fiber extracted from the fleece, the protective covering of various fuzzy mammals, such as sheep, rabbits, alpacas, and goats. Annually, shepherds shear the fleece of live animals, yielding countless individual wool fibers.

The diameter of a wool fiber is measured in microns, with one micron equaling one-millionth of a meter. In the garment industry, the quality of wool, and how soft or coarse it feels when touched, known as the "hand," typically depends on its micron count. A finer micron or lower count indicates softer wool, and merino wool stands out for its exceptionally fine fibers, making it moisture-wicking, comfortable to wear, and naturally sun-protective.

Not all wool is created equal. Some wool is designed for direct skin contact, like a merino wool base layer. Meanwhile, other wools are engineered for durability and heavier-weight fabrics, not intended for direct skin contact.

While other types of wool are recognized for their strength and durability stemming from a higher micron count, merino wool boasts thinner fibers, typically measuring less than 22 microns. (For perspective, human hair averages between 50 and 100 microns in diameter.) Consequently, merino wool finds extensive use in next-to-skin garments like base layers, socks, and underwear, although it's also used in crafting suits, knitwear, and even high-end piano hammers.

What are the characteristics of merino wool?

merino wool fabric

Merino stands as a premier material for outdoor endeavors and is frequently featured in outdoor apparel. However, it's worth noting that it can come with a higher price tag compared to cotton and synthetic alternatives, and individuals with sensitive skin may experience reactions to it. Nevertheless, if you're weighing whether merino wool is suitable for you, here are some key characteristics to consider.

It's soft, stretchy, and comfortable.

Merino wool's innate softness and natural elasticity render it an excellent choice for base layers across various activities, such as hiking, skiing, and running. Contrary to common misconceptions, not all wool is prickly, heavy, or lumpy. Merino stands as the epitome of fine wool, boasting a soft and lightweight feel, making it a preferred option for next-to-skin garments like thermal base layers, underwear, and socks.

It's exceptionally warm and regulates body temperature.

The natural crimped texture of merino fiber captures pockets of still air, offering insulation advantages in both cold and hot climates. Furthermore, merino is inherently hygroscopic, absorbing water vapor from the surroundings. This process enables merino to dissipate heat, ensuring the wearer feels warmer and drier in cold and damp conditions. Conversely, in hot and dry climates, the material wicks away moisture from the skin and releases it into the atmosphere, facilitating a cooling effect even on warmer days.

It wicks moisture away.

Merino wool also possesses natural hydrophobic properties, causing water to bead up on its surface, making it easy to brush off. This feature is particularly beneficial for socks as it effectively wicks moisture away from the feet, preventing them from feeling clammy.

It resists odor and stains.

Unlike synthetic fibers, merino wool inherently repels bacteria and prevents odor buildup. This quality proves advantageous when needing to wear something for consecutive days, such as during camping trips.

Thanks to its hydrophobic nature, the material naturally repels stains, particularly from liquids. Coupled with its odor-resistant properties, this characteristic reduces the need for frequent washing, thereby conserving water.

It has anti-static properties.

Merino wool absorbs moisture from the environment, effectively preventing the generation or accumulation of static electricity. This feature helps to minimize its tendency to cling to the skin and reduce the occurrence of sparks.

It's biodegradable.

In contrast to numerous synthetic materials, merino wool is biodegradable, typically decomposing in as little as three or four months. However, the exact timeframe can vary depending on environmental conditions and the specific characteristics of the fabric.

It's easy to care for it.

In case you're wondering how to care for merino wool clothing, well, it's easy as pie.

Thanks to its resistance to odor, bacteria, and stains, merino wool doesn't require washing as frequently or as vigorously as synthetic materials. Simply airing out your merino overnight is often sufficient to freshen it for the next day's wear.

Additionally, due to its fine fibers, merino wool exhibits remarkable elasticity, maintaining its shape even after prolonged use, stretching, and repeated washing. Whether you're engaging in activities like running, skiing, rock climbing, horse riding, or yoga (or a combination of them all), merino adapts to your body's movements and quickly rebounds back into shape.

Baleaf's Merino Wool Tops

Make your winter adventures fun and exciting by staying warm and cozy in a merino wool top.

Merino Wool Crew Neck Base Layer Shirts

Discover the unparalleled comfort of our Merino Wool Crew Neck Base Layer Shirts. Those who've bought this merino wool top praised it for its dense, smooth, and elastic fabric that moves effortlessly with your body and boasts an attractive sheen. With impeccable stitching and a versatile regular fit, this shirt excels as a base layer, accommodating additional clothing layers underneath if desired while extra features like thumb holes and reflective elements enhance their technical performance.

Crafted from 100% merino wool, they provide exceptional insulation, moisture-wicking, and odor resistance, making them ideal for a wide range of rigorous outdoor activities in cool and cold weather conditions, ensuring comfort and warmth throughout your adventures.

Merino Wool Men's Hooded Base Layer Shirts

Get the fun ninja vibes with this merino wool top base layer.

Baleaf Merino Wool Men's Hooded Base Layer Shirts

Customers are raving about our Merino Wool Men's Hooded Base Layer Shirts, praising their comfort, warmth, and ninja-style appearance. With a balaclava design for sun protection and windproofing, along with thumb holes to prevent roll-up, it's crafted from 100% Merino Wool, providing exceptional insulation for temperatures under 40°F.

Baleaf Merino Wool Women's Hooded Base Layer Shirts

Ladies, check out our Merino Wool Women's Hooded Base Layer Shirts, boasting the same features as the men's version. Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, cycling, hiking, and other cold-weather outdoor pursuits.

Indulge Yourself in the Warmth of a Merino Wool Top

Merino wool, with its centuries-old track record, remains unmatched in textile functionality today. It excels in insulation, moisture-wicking, and anti-static properties while offering itch-free, odor-resistant, crease-resistant, lightweight, and shape-retaining qualities sustainably. Whether you're venturing outdoors or relaxing at home, envelop yourself in the warmth and comfort of merino wool tops.

March 09, 2024 — Baleaf Editor

Older Post Back to Baleaf Blogs & News Newer Post